Information on Flea Products for Dogs

Dogs have long been man's best friend. To keep your best friend healthy, you have to understand the products that you use on him. One of the most common health problems that dogs experience is fleas. These little blood suckers can quickly become a pest. They wound your friend and infest your house. Many products exist to help rid your friend of his problem, each with its own method, effects and risks.

  1. Natural Methods

    • Many products are sold for dogs that combat fleas and are totally natural. There's always the good, old flea comb. The flea comb can be used with petroleum jelly to help the fleas stick to the comb if necessary. This is best for small infections on a otherwise healthy dog. Another form of natural treatment is using essential oils, such as citronella. These can be applied to your dog's collar. The oils will have no adverse effects to your dog, but fleas will steer clear due to the odor of citrus.

    Flea Collars

    • One of the most popular and common flea combat methods is the flea collar. Flea collars come in many shapes and sizes, and being able to distinguish between them is important. First, make sure the collar is snug but not tight. If it is too loose, the collar could get caught on something and the dog could chew it. Second, some collars are made with more dangerous chemicals than others. It is always safer to stick with something that says "natural" and avoid carbonates, which can cause vomiting and other serious health problems.

    Skin-Applied Medicines

    • Another type of flea product for dogs are the medicines, such as Frontline, that you apply to the dog's skin. These medicines prevent infestation by applying something on the skin rather than the dog ingesting a medication. Generally, it is applied between the shoulder blades and gradually spreads to the rest of the skin within the next 24 hours using the dog's natural oils. These medicines have the advantage of repelling and killing already set-in infestations, and one application can last up to a month. Side effects, however, can include irritation at the site of application.

    Oral Medications

    • Oral flea medications for dogs work slightly differently but have the same general outcome. Such medications are usually administered daily in tablet form, with many offering protection as soon as 30 minutes after ingestion. These products can have more serious side effects, so it is highly recommended that you consult your veterinarian before putting your dog on any kind of oral flea or tick regimen. Some of these medicines are meant to be used with other forms of flea medication, so thoroughly read the package before giving them to your dog.