Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and other external parasites can affect dogs living in flats just as easily as those that spend time in gardens, woods or on beaches. However, choosing a flea and tick treatment for dogs isn’t simply a matter of picking the first product that promises long-lasting protection.
Dog owners often make the same mistakes:
The weight range shown on the packaging is the first thing to check. Available ranges include 1.5 to 4 kg, 4 to 10 kg, 10 to 25 kg, 25 to 40 kg and 40 to 60 kg. Choosing a higher dose doesn’t guarantee better protection. It could instead expose your dog to an unsuitable dose.
Also check the minimum recommended age. Several products featured here shouldn’t be used on puppies under 7 or 8 weeks, depending on the product. If your dog is still growing, weigh them before each repeat application.
A spot-on is generally applied at regular intervals. Advantix products claim to provide around four weeks of protection per spot-on, while Beaphar Fiprotec Spot On states, according to its product information, that it offers up to five weeks against fleas and up to four weeks against ticks.
An anti-parasite collar for dogs works differently. The Seresto collar for dogs weighing over 8 kg claims to last for up to eight months, provided you check its fit regularly. How long it actually lasts depends on following the instructions, exposure to water and replacing it at the recommended time.
Choose a treatment for a small, medium or large dog based on their surroundings. For a city-dwelling dog that mostly walks on pavements, a formula that targets fleas and ticks may be enough. For walks in the woods or in southern regions, protection against mosquitoes and other external parasites may be an important factor.
Always read the instructions for information about:
Products containing permethrin, including some Advantix products, must not be used on cats and can be highly toxic to them. If your dog has an unusual reaction, accidentally swallows the product, or you have questions about using it during pregnancy, ask a vet or pharmacist for advice.
Why it’s a good choice for this type of owner: This pack is for owners looking for a straightforward solution for a small dog. It contains four spot-ons and uses a fipronil formula to target fleas and ticks.
The 2 to 10 kg weight range is clearly stated, helping to reduce the risk of choosing an unsuitable dose. However, you should still follow the minimum age of 8 weeks stated in the instructions.
Four 0.67 ml spot-ons, applied to the skin, with repeat application recommended every four weeks.
Why it’s a good choice for this type of owner: This option is for owners who want to target several external parasites with a monthly application and a formula suited to a medium-sized dog.
The product information clearly states the 10 to 25 kg weight range and explains the precautions associated with permethrin, including that the product must not be used on cats.
The formula claims to target six external parasites and withstand moderate exposure to water.
Why it’s a good choice for this type of owner: This collar is ideal if you’d rather avoid monthly applications and want a long-lasting option, especially for regular walks.
The weight limit, two-finger fit and recommended replacement every eight months are clearly stated. However, frequent immersion can shorten how long it lasts.
A 70 cm collar that’s rain-resistant, with claimed protection against fleas and ticks for up to eight months.
Why it’s a good choice for this type of owner: This product is for owners of extra-large dogs who need a spot-on dosed for 40 to 60 kg and offering claimed protection against several external parasites.
The target weight is included in the product name. Apply it to healthy skin, then keep children and other animals away until the product has dried completely.
Four 6 ml spot-ons, applied monthly, with claimed protection against fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, sandflies, chewing lice and stable flies.
We’ve put together a comprehensive selection, updated in real time, of products that meet these demanding criteria while taking European safety regulations into account.
To apply a spot-on, part your dog’s fur and apply the product directly to the skin. Don’t spread it over the coat. Wash your hands after handling it and avoid touching the treated area until it is completely dry. Follow the recommended waiting time before bathing, including the 48 hours specified for some Advantix products.
If you’re using a collar, check regularly that it still fits properly, especially on a young dog. Remove any trimmed pieces straight away and keep unused products in their packaging, away from heat and light.
It depends on the product you choose. The spot-ons featured here generally need to be reapplied every four weeks, while the Seresto collar claims to provide up to eight months of protection. Always follow the instructions supplied with the product you buy.
No. The statement “1.5 to 60 kg” doesn’t mean that one dose is suitable for the whole range. Each pack is intended for a specific weight band. Weigh your dog and choose the right product, without combining doses.
Some formulas, including Advantix, claim to repel mosquitoes and other external parasites. Beaphar Fiprotec’s fipronil formula is presented here as a treatment for fleas and ticks. Check the label to see exactly which parasites are covered and whether there are any restrictions on use.