Dog Flea Treatment

There are many dog flea treatment options that can help you fight these parasites. Flea collars, dips and sprays are only a few of the options available. Here are some of the most common and effective dog flea treatments.

Flea Collars

Dog flea collars are widely available, affordable and largely effective. They work by emitting toxins that keep fleas off your dog. Remember that flea collars contain toxic chemicals. Buy a collar labeled for use on dogs, and make sure you have the right collar for your dog's size, or you could accidentally apply too many or two few chemicals. 

Always follow the instructions on the package when using dog flea collars. The chemicals in dog flea collars can react with some canine medications, so if your dog is receiving any kind of medication, consult your vet before choosing a dog flea collar.

When using a dog flea collar, you should practice home flea control and try to keep your dog's environment as free of fleas, larva and eggs as possible, to prevent re-infestation.

Flea Dips and Baths

Flea dips are a good idea for dogs who are heavily infested with fleas. Flea dips contain strong, but effective, chemicals; they should be used sparingly and only in cases where flea infestation is severe. The effects of a flea dip last about two weeks. You'll still have to practice home flea control and eliminate fleas from your dog's environment as much as possible, or he'll become re-infested once the effects of the dip have worn off.

Flea baths use medicated shampoo to kill adult fleas on the dog. Their effects last for about a day. Without home flea control, they're useless.

Spot-On Flea Treatments

Spot-on flea treatments like Frontline and Advantage are some of the most popular dog flea treatment products available. They're applied to the skin, typically at the base of the dog's neck, and their effects last for about four weeks. You won't need to worry as much about treating 

These products kill adult fleas, and some also inhibit the growth of flea larva and eggs in order stop fleas from reproducing on your dog. Again, follow package instructions carefully and buy the spot-on treatment appropriate for your dog's weight and size. Applying spot-on treatment intended for a large dog to a small dog could make that dog sick. Remember to consult your vet if your dog is receiving any medications, as spot-on flea treatments can react with medication and produce unpleasant side effects.

Flea Sprays and Powders

Flea sprays and powders are some of the least effective dog flea treatment options available. They're applied directly to the skin and kill adult fleas. Some may also kill mites and ticks. Some products may kill fleas in their larval and egg stages.

Flea sprays and powders last in effectiveness for two or three days, and then must be reapplied. 

Home Flea Control

To control fleas in your home, use a flea bomb or spray to kill fleas in your carpet and in the cracks of your wood floor. Treat upholstery, curtains and rugs; wash all linens, especially those used by your dog. Keep your lawn trimmed and clear of debris to keep fleas from breeding in the grass.

 

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