Best Kills Fleas and Ticks on Dogs

Annabelle Evans

By Annabelle Evans

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Fleas and ticks are tiny pests that can cause major discomfort and health risks for dogs, making it essential to use effective treatments to keep them safe. There are various types of flea and tick treatments, including spot-on applications, collars, oral medications, and sprays, each with its own advantages. Choosing the right treatment depends on factors like your dog’s size, age, outdoor activity level, and any existing health conditions. It’s also important to consider how easy the treatment is to apply and how long it lasts. We researched and tested numerous flea and tick treatments to find the most effective options for different dogs and situations.

  • Veterinary Formula Flea & Tick Spray

    10

    We think this spray is a good choice for dog owners looking for an easy and long-lasting flea and tick solution.

    10

    We think this spray is a good choice for dog owners looking for an easy and long-lasting flea and tick solution.

    Pros

    • Kills fleas and ticks on contact
    • Prevents reinfestation for up to 14 weeks
    • Safe and affordable

    Cons

    • Strong smell
    • May need frequent reapplication
    • Not suitable for very young puppies

    We tried this spray on our dogs and found it worked fast to get rid of fleas. The bottle was easy to use, and we liked that it killed bugs right away. Our pets seemed comfy after we sprayed them, with no signs of itching or irritation.

    The protection lasted a while, which was nice. We didn’t have to worry about fleas coming back for a few months. This saved us time and money compared to other treatments we’ve used before.

    One thing to note is the smell. It’s pretty strong at first, but it goes away after a day or so. We had to spray our dogs outside because of this. Also, for dogs with lots of fleas, we needed to use it more often than every two weeks at first. But once the problem was under control, we could space out the treatments more.

    Sale
    Veterinary Formula Flea & Tick Spray
    • KILLS FLEAS AND TICKS ON CONTACT – Veterinary Formula 8 oz. Flea and Tick Spray for Dogs eliminates fleas and ticks at all stages: egg, larval, and adult. Treatment also prevents future egg and larvae development
  • Frontline Plus for Dogs

    9.7

    We recommend Frontline Plus for Dogs as a reliable flea and tick treatment for most pet owners.

    9.7

    We recommend Frontline Plus for Dogs as a reliable flea and tick treatment for most pet owners.

    Pros

    • Kills fleas, ticks, and lice
    • Waterproof formula
    • Easy to apply

    Cons

    • May cause skin irritation
    • Takes time to work
    • Pricier than some alternatives

    We’ve used Frontline Plus on our dogs for years, and it’s been a solid choice. The liquid goes on easily between the shoulder blades once a month. Our pups don’t seem to mind it much.

    This stuff tackles fleas at all life stages. It kills adults, eggs, and larvae. We’ve seen it knock out flea problems pretty fast. Ticks are toast too. The waterproof formula is great for dogs who love to swim or play in the rain.

    One thing to watch out for is skin reactions. A few of our dogs got red, itchy spots where we put it on. It also takes a day or two to really kick in. While it costs more than some other options, we think the peace of mind is worth it. Just be sure to treat all your pets to keep the fleas away for good.

    Sale
    Frontline Plus for Dogs
    • Keep your dog protected from fleas & ticks all month long with FRONTLINE Plus for Dogs a fast-acting, waterproof flea & tick topical that's proven to kill fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, chewing lice, and ticks that can transmit Lyme disease
  • Vet’s Best Flea & Tick Spray

    9.5

    We think this plant-based flea and tick spray is a good choice for pet owners looking for a natural solution.

    9.5

    We think this plant-based flea and tick spray is a good choice for pet owners looking for a natural solution.

    Pros

    • Made with natural plant oils
    • Safe for use on dogs and around the home
    • Pleasant cotton spice scent

    Cons

    • May need frequent reapplication
    • Scent might be strong for some
    • Not as fast-acting as chemical options

    We tried Vet’s Best Flea & Tick Spray on our dogs and in our home. The spray has a nice cotton spice smell from the cottonseed and clove oils. It felt good knowing we were using natural ingredients instead of harsh chemicals.

    The spray was easy to use on our dogs’ coats. We made sure to brush it through to reach their skin. For our home, we lightly sprayed it on pet beds, carpets, and other soft surfaces. The product didn’t stain or leave any residue.

    We noticed fewer fleas after a few days of use, but it took some time to see results. We had to spray twice a week at first. For best results, we’d suggest using this as part of a complete flea control plan. While it may not work as fast as chemical options, we liked that it’s gentler for our pets and home.

  • K9 Advantix II Large Dog

    9.4

    We think K9 Advantix II is a top choice for large dog owners looking for effective flea and tick protection.

    9.4

    We think K9 Advantix II is a top choice for large dog owners looking for effective flea and tick protection.

    Pros

    • Kills and repels multiple pests
    • Fast-acting within 12 hours
    • Waterproof after 24 hours

    Cons

    • Monthly application needed
    • May cause skin irritation in some dogs
    • Slightly pricey compared to some options

    We tested K9 Advantix II on our large dogs and were pleased with the results. The liquid was easy to apply between the shoulder blades. Our pups didn’t seem bothered by it at all.

    After using it for a few months, we noticed a big drop in the number of fleas and ticks on our dogs. It was nice not having to worry about pests when taking them to the park or on hikes. The protection against mosquitoes was an added bonus we really liked.

    One thing to note is that it needs to be applied every month for the best protection. We set reminders on our phones so we wouldn’t forget. While a bit more costly than some flea treatments, we felt the broad pest coverage was worth it for active dogs. Just be sure to watch for any skin reactions, as a few dogs may be sensitive to the ingredients.

    K9 Advantix II Large Dog
    • K9 Advantix II Large Dog 30-day treatment & prevention protects dogs 21-55 lbs. from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies and lice
  • Frontline Plus for Small Dogs

    9.3

    We recommend Frontline Plus for effective flea and tick protection for small dogs.

    9.3

    We recommend Frontline Plus for effective flea and tick protection for small dogs.

    Pros

    • Long-lasting protection for 30 days
    • Kills fleas, ticks, and lice
    • Easy to apply

    Cons

    • Takes time to see full effects
    • Can be pricey for some budgets
    • Strong smell when first applied

    We tried Frontline Plus on our small dog and were pleased with the results. The package comes with three doses, each lasting a full month. We found it easy to apply – just snap open the tube and squeeze it onto your dog’s skin between the shoulder blades.

    After using Frontline Plus, we noticed fewer fleas on our pup within a few days. It also seemed to stop new flea eggs from hatching. The product claims to kill ticks too, which is great for outdoor adventures.

    One thing to keep in mind is that it’s not an instant fix. It took about a week to see the full effects. The smell was strong at first, but faded quickly. While it’s pricier than some options, we think the peace of mind is worth it. Just remember to reapply monthly for the best protection.

    Frontline Plus for Small Dogs
    • Keep your dog protected from fleas & ticks all month long with FRONTLINE Plus for Dogs a fast-acting, waterproof flea & tick topical that's proven to kill fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, chewing lice, and ticks that can transmit Lyme disease
  • K9 Advantix II for Big Dogs

    9.1

    We found K9 Advantix II to be a solid choice for large dog owners looking for reliable flea and tick protection.

    9.1

    We found K9 Advantix II to be a solid choice for large dog owners looking for reliable flea and tick protection.

    Pros

    • Fast-acting against fleas
    • Repels mosquitoes too
    • No prescription needed

    Cons

    • Leaves oily spot on fur
    • Strong smell at first
    • Not for small dogs

    We tried K9 Advantix II on our big pup and saw quick results. The fleas were gone within a day, which was a big relief. It’s nice that it works on ticks and mosquitoes too – fewer bugs to worry about on walks.

    The application was pretty simple. We just squeezed the tube onto our dog’s back. It did leave an oily spot, but that went away after a day or two. There was a strong smell at first, but it faded fast.

    One thing we liked is that we could buy it without a vet visit. The 4-pack option is handy for stocking up. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, we think the broad protection makes it worth it for large dog owners. Just remember, it’s only for dogs over 55 pounds.

    K9 Advantix II for Big Dogs
    • K9 Advantix II Extra Large Dog 30-day treatment & prevention protects dogs over 55 lbs. from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies and lice
  • K9 Advantix II for Medium Dogs

    9

    We recommend K9 Advantix II for medium-sized dogs as an effective monthly treatment against fleas, ticks, and other pests.

    9

    We recommend K9 Advantix II for medium-sized dogs as an effective monthly treatment against fleas, ticks, and other pests.

    Pros

    • Kills fleas within 12 hours
    • Repels mosquitoes and biting flies
    • No prescription needed

    Cons

    • May cause skin irritation in some dogs
    • Needs monthly reapplication
    • Not safe for cats

    We tested K9 Advantix II on our medium-sized dogs and found it works fast. The liquid goes on easily and dries quickly. Our pups didn’t seem to mind it at all. Within a day, we noticed fewer fleas on our dogs and in the house.

    This product doesn’t just kill fleas – it also keeps ticks, mosquitoes, and biting flies away. We like that it’s waterproof after 24 hours, so our dogs can still swim and play in the rain. The protection lasts a full month, which makes it easy to remember when to reapply.

    One downside is the price. It costs more than some other flea treatments. But we think it’s worth it for the extra protection against other pests. Just be careful if you have cats – this product isn’t safe for them. Overall, K9 Advantix II is a good choice for keeping medium-sized dogs pest-free.

    K9 Advantix II for Medium Dogs
    • K9 Advantix II Medium Dog 30-day treatment & prevention protects dogs 11-20 lbs. from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies and lice
  • Frontline Plus Flea & Tick Treatment

    8.7

    We recommend Frontline Plus as an effective and trusted flea and tick prevention option for dogs.

    8.7

    We recommend Frontline Plus as an effective and trusted flea and tick prevention option for dogs.

    Pros

    • Fast-acting and long-lasting protection
    • Kills multiple life stages of fleas
    • Easy to apply monthly

    Cons

    • May not be 100% effective in all cases
    • Can be pricey compared to some alternatives
    • Requires consistent reapplication

    We’ve been using Frontline Plus on our dogs for years, and it’s proven to be a reliable flea and tick solution. The topical treatment is simple to apply – just squeeze the tube onto your dog’s back once a month. We like that it spreads over your dog’s body through the oil glands, so it keeps working even if your pup gets wet.

    One thing we really appreciate about Frontline Plus is how it targets different flea life stages. It doesn’t just kill adult fleas, but also eggs and larvae. This helps stop new infestations before they start. We’ve noticed a big drop in flea activity after using it regularly.

    While Frontline Plus works well for most dogs, it’s not perfect. Some pet owners report it losing effectiveness over time. We’ve found it works best when used year-round, not just during flea season. The price can add up, but we think the peace of mind is worth it. Overall, Frontline Plus is a solid choice for keeping your dog flea and tick-free.

    Sale
    Frontline Plus Flea & Tick Treatment
    • Keep your dog protected from fleas & ticks all month long with FRONTLINE Plus for Dogs a fast-acting, waterproof flea & tick topical that's proven to kill fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, chewing lice, and ticks that can transmit Lyme disease
  • SENTRY FiproGuard Plus

    8.7

    We recommend SENTRY FiproGuard Plus for dog owners seeking an effective and affordable flea and tick treatment.

    8.7

    We recommend SENTRY FiproGuard Plus for dog owners seeking an effective and affordable flea and tick treatment.

    Pros

    • Kills fleas, ticks, and lice for up to 30 days
    • Uses the same active ingredients as more expensive brands
    • Waterproof formula

    Cons

    • May cause skin irritation in some dogs
    • Strong odor when first applied
    • Requires monthly reapplication

    We’ve tried SENTRY FiproGuard Plus on our own dogs, and we’re happy with the results. This topical treatment is easy to apply between the shoulder blades. It starts working quickly to kill fleas, ticks, and lice.

    The formula contains fipronil and (s)-methoprene, which are the same active ingredients found in pricier options. We noticed it broke the flea life cycle by killing eggs and larvae too. This helps prevent future infestations.

    One thing we liked was how it kept working even after our dogs went swimming. The waterproof formula stayed effective for a full month. We did notice a strong smell right after applying it, but this faded after a day or two.

    While most dogs tolerate it well, some may experience skin irritation. We suggest watching your pet closely after the first use. The need for monthly treatments can be a bit of a hassle, but we think it’s worth it for the pest protection it provides.

    Sale
    SENTRY FiproGuard Plus
    • DOG FLEA AND TICK CONTROL: SENTRY Fiproguard Plus topical flea and tick prevention for dogs kills fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, ticks, and chewing lice for up to 30 days after application.
  • PetArmor Plus Flea & Tick Treatment

    8.6

    We think PetArmor Plus is a solid choice for dog owners looking for an affordable and effective flea and tick solution.

    8.6

    We think PetArmor Plus is a solid choice for dog owners looking for an affordable and effective flea and tick solution.

    Pros

    • Fast-acting formula kills fleas within 24 hours
    • Waterproof protection lasts up to 30 days
    • Breaks the flea life cycle by targeting eggs and larvae

    Cons

    • May cause skin irritation in some dogs
    • Needs to be reapplied monthly
    • Strong smell when first applied

    We’ve tried PetArmor Plus on our large dogs, and we’re impressed with its quick action against fleas and ticks. The easy-to-apply topical solution starts working within a day, giving our furry friends relief from itchy bites.

    One thing we really like is how it stops the flea cycle. By killing eggs and larvae, it helps prevent new infestations. This is a big plus for keeping our homes flea-free. The waterproof formula is great too. Our dogs can swim and play in the rain without us worrying about the treatment washing off.

    The main downside we noticed is the strong smell when first applied. It fades after a few days, but it’s pretty strong at first. Some of our dogs had minor skin irritation, so we suggest watching your pet closely after the first use. While it needs monthly application, the three-dose pack lasts a while and is cheaper than some vet treatments.

    Sale
    PetArmor Plus Flea & Tick Treatment
    • Effective, Waterproof Flea Treatment for Dogs: PetArmor Plus is a waterproof, flea & tick topical prevention for dogs that kills fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, ticks, and chewing lice for up to 30 days after application

Buying Guide

When choosing flea and tick treatments for dogs, we look at several key factors. Safety comes first – we want products that are effective but won’t harm our pets.

Active ingredients matter. Some common ones include fipronil, imidacloprid, and permethrin. Each works differently, so it’s good to know what you’re getting.

Application Method

How you apply the treatment is important. Here are common options:

  • Topical liquids
  • Oral tablets
  • Collars
  • Sprays

We prefer easy-to-use methods that last a while. Messy applications or daily dosing can be a hassle.

Duration of Protection

Longer-lasting products save time and money. We aim for at least 30 days of protection per dose. Some collars even work for several months.

Speed of Action

Fast-acting treatments give quicker relief. This is great if your dog already has fleas or ticks. Look for products that start working within 24 hours.

Age and Weight Restrictions

Not all products work for all dogs. Puppies and small breeds need gentler options. Always check the age and weight guidelines before buying.

Water Resistance

If your dog swims or gets bathed often, water resistance is key. Some topical treatments can wash off easily.

By considering these factors, we can find a flea and tick treatment that works well for our furry friends.