Flea treatment for dogs | Dutch

Keeping your dog protected from fleas and ticks supports their well-being by:

• Preventing discomfort: Fleas and ticks cause itchiness and irritation that may leave your dog scratching all day.
• Avoiding pest-related health issues: Fleas and ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease and tapeworms, which seriously affect your dog’s health.
• Protecting your home: Fleas multiply quickly and can infest your home, making it uncomfortable for everyone.

Flea and tick treatments come in pills, chewables, and topical medications. Here are some of the key differences between these treatments:

• Topical flea treatment for dogs: Topical flea treatment for dogs includes shampoos, powders, and spot treatments. Some are more effective than others, with spot treatments being the most effective topical flea treatments for dogs because they eliminate fleas, larvae, and eggs and protect your pet for around 30 days.
• Oral flea treatment for dogs: Oral flea treatments for dogs can come in pill or chewable forms. Which is best for your dog depends on which they’re more likely to eat. Some dogs prefer chewable forms that are flavored and resemble their other treats. Oral flea and tick prevention for dogs is the most successful in eliminating and preventing fleas, protecting your pet for 30 days.

Flea collars: Another option is flea collars, which can prevent parasites by using chemicals released into the dog’s skin. Flea collars are worn around the neck and can be useful, but they may cause GI upset and skin irritation in some dogs.

Choosing between OTC and prescription flea treatments can be a bit overwhelming. OTC options can be handy in a pinch, but it’s important to opt for a prescription whenever you can to give your dog the best protection possible.

Your dog's age and breed matter when picking flea meds. Puppies and seniors might need gentler options to avoid side effects, and some breeds are sensitive to certain ingredients. Chat with your vet to find the safest fit.

If you're dealing with a mix of insects in your area, consider treatments that also tackle other bugs like mosquitos.

Dogs with fleas are excessively itchy. You may see them scratch their fur or rub up against objects in the home more often. Flea bites also leave marks, so you may notice red bumps on your dog’s skin under their fur. When left untreated, fleas can cause hair loss, scabs, and painful lesions because dogs can’t stop scratching themselves. Some pet parents even see the fleas themselves jump off their dogs and into their homes. 

Unfortunately, you won’t truly know if your dog has fleas until you have them diagnosed by a vet. There are many causes of itchy skin in dogs, ranging from allergies to ear infections, mange, and even anxiety, so you shouldn’t treat your dog’s itching at home until you know the cause. 

Once your dog is diagnosed with fleas, they’ll need to receive multiple treatments to rid them of the infestation. If you’re using spot-on treatments, this may mean multiple uses before the infestation is completely eradicated. However, if you’re using oral flea medicine for dogs, you only need to give your dog a monthly dose to be protected year-round, since they protect pets for 30 days. 

It’s important to note that you should not give your dog flea medicine for cats or allergy meds for cats because they contain different ingredients that may be toxic.

While fleas are small and virtually undetectable, there are several ways you can protect your pets and yourself from fleas, including:

• Bathe and brush pets regularly
• Check for fleas and flea bites on the skin, especially after walks
• Use flea and tick prevention for dogs year-round

Fleas prefer warm, humid, and dark environments like leaves, trees, and grass. Unfortunately, you can’t prevent your dog from spending time outside, so you should keep them protected with preventative products year-round, even in the winter.

Unfortunately, by the time you realize your dog might have fleas, they may have spread it to other pets and people throughout the household. Fleas jump, so they can be virtually anywhere. If your dog is being treated for fleas and another pet hasn’t gotten them, your vet will still recommend that all household pets be treated for fleas to prevent a growing infestation.

Our vets at Dutch can diagnose and treat fleas on dogs and cats from the comfort of your own home. Plus, we can deliver pet prescriptions like anti-itch medicine for cats and dogs right to your door to reduce itching, prevent fleas and ticks, and protect your pets.

For many effective flea and tick treatments, you’ll need a prescription from your vet. These medicines are generally stronger and ensure comprehensive protection, making them a reliable choice for controlling infestations and protecting your dog’s health.

Most flea and tick medicines start working within a few hours. Oral treatments often begin killing fleas within 30 minutes, while topical solutions might take a bit longer. Always follow the product instructions for the best results.

Yes, it’s wise to continue using flea medicine during winter. While fleas are less active in cold weather, they can still survive indoors. Year-round prevention helps keep your dog protected no matter the season.

Absolutely. Treating your home is crucial if your dog has fleas. Fleas can hide in carpets, bedding, and furniture. Using home treatment products helps ensure you eliminate fleas from your environment, protecting everyone in your household.