How to Compare Flea Treatments for Dogs
There are many flea treatment options for dogs, including spot-on treatments, flea collars, pills, sprays and shampoos. All are effective at repelling and/or killing fleas when they are used in the right way and under the correct circumstances. By evaluating your particular situation and what you expect from your dog's flea treatment, you can compare the options effectively and choose the one that is right for your pet.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Determine your dog's age. Certain types of flea treatments are not suitable for puppies. For example, according to Doctors Foster and Smith, many of the spot-on treatments, such as Frontline and Advantage, are only suitable for use on dogs 8 weeks and older, and flea collars should not be used on puppies under 12 weeks of age. If you have a puppy, you may need to use a shampoo that is suitable for any age.
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2
Determine whether you want your dog's flea treatment to repel other pests, such as ticks and mosquitoes, too. Many flea treatments, such as Frontline Plus and certain shampoos and sprays, offer a combined approach that protects the animal against both fleas and ticks. This can be important if you live in a wooded area and if your dog spends a lot of time outside.
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3
Calculate how long you will need to use a flea treatment. If you are in an area with cold winters, you may be able to discontinue treatment during the winter months. If you are in an area that is temperate throughout the year, you may need to treat your dog continuously. If you have to treat the animal year-round, cost may be more of a factor for you.
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Weigh the convenience factor of each treatment. According to Doctors Foster and Smith, spot-on treatments only need to be applied once a month, and flea collars typically last from 3 to 5 months. Pills generally last for a month too, while shampoos and sprays often need to be used weekly. If you don't want to be bothered weekly, spot treatment, pills or collars are your best option.
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Consider other physical factors. Does your dog have sensitive skin? If so, he might be irritated by spot treatments, collars or sprays. Rather than a topical method, you may need to use a pill.
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Talk to your veterinarian and other dog owners. Even if you do plenty of research, information from the users of each type of product and a professional opinion are often more valuable.
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Tips & Warnings
Never use a product that is formulated for cats on your dog. Make sure you are using a product specifically formulated for canines. If your dog is especially sensitive, you may want to investigate natural flea treatment options.
