What is the most effective tick prevention for dogs?

Some treatments are administered monthly, while others may last for several months. It's essential to follow the instructions provided by the specific flea treatment product you choose. Year-round prevention is recommended. Fleas and ticks can be picked up from other infested animals, such as other dogs, cats, or wildlife. Fleas can also be found in environments where infested animals have been, such as parks, yards, or boarding facilities. Ticks are commonly found in wooded areas, tall grasses, or shrubs, where they attach themselves to passing animals. Spot-on flea treatments are usually liquid and applied to the skin, typically between the shoulder blades or along the back. Flea tablets contain chemicals that are absorbed into the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body. When fleas bite the dog, they are exposed to these chemicals, which either kill the fleas directly or disrupt their life cycle, preventing them from reproducing. Dog oral flea tablets provide systemic protection against fleas and can be an effective option for controlling infestations.

Fleas and ticks carry diseases that are much easier to prevent than treat, especially ticks. Keep in mind, flea and tick preventatives for dogs only work when given on time, and when following the manufacturer’s directions on dosing. Our veterinarian panel rounded up their top choices for best flea and tick medications based on their clinical observations, effectiveness of the product on patients, safety, cost, and other contributing factors. When selecting the right flea and tick preventative for your pup, it’s important to chat with your vet first to determine what makes sense based on their age and health. Your vet can also help you find the best flea and tick preventative depending on your dog’s lifestyle and whether a capsule, chew, or topical preventative would be better suited. Some flea and tick options also offer additional benefits, such as protection against heartworms or hookworms. Your dog should also be on a routine heartworm preventative to protect against heartworm disease—especially if it’s not included in their flea and tick preventative.