When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Heartworm Preventative For Dogs (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a way to keep your furry friend healthy and happy, it's important to consider heartworm preventative for dogs. This is an essential part of pet care that helps protect your dog from a potentially fatal disease caused by parasitic worms. To make the right choice, there are several factors you need to consider before buying any products.

Firstly, it's crucial that you consult with your veterinarian, who can recommend the best heartworm preventative options based on your dog's age, breed, weight, and health status. Secondly, you should take into account the effectiveness and safety of the products available, as well as their ease of use and overall cost. Lastly, you should consider any potential side effects or interactions with other medications your pet may be taking.

If you're unsure whether your dog needs heartworm preventative or have more questions about the available products, read on. Is your dog at risk of heartworm disease? What are the symptoms of heartworm infestation? How often should you administer the treatment? What are the differences between oral medications, topical solutions, and injectable treatments? Are there any natural remedies or alternative medicine options? By learning more about heartworm preventative for dogs, you'll be able to make an informed decision and ensure your pet's well-being.

10 Best Heartworm Preventative For Dogs

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for preventing and treating fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes in dogs over 55 lbs.
2
This product is ideal for treating fleas and ticks in small dogs that weigh between 5-22 lbs.
3
Ideal for deworming medium and large dogs against roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms.
4
The product is ideal for preventing and treating fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes in large dogs weighing between 21-55 lbs.
5
Ideal for treating and preventing flea and tick infestation in dogs weighing between 45-88 pounds.
6
This product is ideal for preventing and treating fleas and ticks on dogs over 18 lbs for up to 8 months.
7
The product is ideal for preventing and treating fleas and ticks in large dogs weighing between 45-88 lbs.
8
This product is ideal for providing deworming treatment to dogs that weigh 45 pounds or more.
9
This product is ideal for treating fleas and ticks on medium sized dogs (23-44 lbs), with three doses included.
10
This product is ideal for treating fleas on medium to large dogs, providing fast-acting relief with six doses.
The product is ideal for preventing and treating fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes in dogs over 55 lbs.
This product is ideal for treating fleas and ticks in small dogs that weigh between 5-22 lbs.
Ideal for deworming medium and large dogs against roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms.
The product is ideal for preventing and treating fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes in large dogs weighing between 21-55 lbs.
Ideal for treating and preventing flea and tick infestation in dogs weighing between 45-88 pounds.
This product is ideal for preventing and treating fleas and ticks on dogs over 18 lbs for up to 8 months.
The product is ideal for preventing and treating fleas and ticks in large dogs weighing between 45-88 lbs.
This product is ideal for providing deworming treatment to dogs that weigh 45 pounds or more.
This product is ideal for treating fleas and ticks on medium sized dogs (23-44 lbs), with three doses included.
This product is ideal for treating fleas on medium to large dogs, providing fast-acting relief with six doses.

1. Xl K9 Flea, Tick & Mosquito Prevention

The K9 Advantix II Extra Large Dog 30-day treatment & prevention is the perfect solution to protect your dog weighing between 21-55 lbs. from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, and lice. This vet-recommended formula is specially designed to kill and repel fleas on contact, so they don't have to bite your dog to die.

The easy-to-apply topical treatment is fragrance-free and provides waterproof protection after 24 hours. The formula kills fleas within 12 hours of application, giving you peace of mind that your furry friend is protected from harmful pests.

This monthly treatment is suitable for extra large dogs, and no prescription is needed to purchase it. Keep your dog safe and protected with K9 Advantix II.

Pros

  • Kills fleas within 12 hours of application
  • Protects against multiple pests including fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, and lice
  • Vet-recommended formula
  • Easy-to-apply topical treatment
  • Fragrance-free
  • Waterproof after 24 hours
  • No prescription needed

2. Frontline Plus For Dogs Flea And Tick Treatment (Small Dog, 5-22 Lbs.) 3 Doses (Orange Box)

FRONTLINE Plus for Dogs is a highly effective and fast-acting flea and tick topical that provides a month-long protection from flea and tick infestations. It is specifically formulated with fipronil and (S)-methoprene to kill adult fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, chewing lice, and ticks that can transmit Lyme disease. By breaking the flea life cycle, this product ensures that your dog stays protected from fleas and ticks.

You can trust FRONTLINE Plus to be highly effective in preventing further infestations of fleas and ticks. It is easy to apply with just one monthly dose, and has been trusted by pet owners for over 20 years. It can be used on puppies as young as eight weeks and weighing 5 pounds or more. It has also been formulated to be waterproof, ensuring that it remains effective even after your dog has been in water.

FRONTLINE Plus is also available in a formula designed for cats and kittens that are 8 weeks of age and weigh over 1.5lbs. This makes it easy to protect all the dogs and cats in your house from flea and tick infestations.

To effectively control flea and tick infestations, it is important to treat all dogs or cats in your household monthly. With FRONTLINE Plus, you can ensure that your pets stay protected all year round. Subscribe and save today to make it easier for you to keep your pets protected and never run out of FRONTLINE Plus.

Pros

  • Fast-acting and highly effective flea and tick topical
  • Kills adult fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, chewing lice, and ticks
  • Trusted by pet owners for over 20 years
  • Waterproof and remains effective even after water exposure
  • Easy to apply with just one monthly dose

Cons

  • – May cause skin irritation in some dogs
  • – May not be effective for all dogs

3. Durvet Triple Wormer For Medium And Large Dogs

The Convenient 12 Pack Non-Prescription Chewable Tablets is a highly effective treatment for controlling seven strains of tape, hook, and roundworms in dogs. The tablets come in a 12 pack for convenience and are suitable for medium to large dogs.

These chewable tablets are easy to administer and do not require a prescription. The packaging may vary but the quality remains the same.

The feeding directions for these tablets are simple and easy to follow. For dogs weighing between 25.1 to 50.0 pounds, one Medium/Large Dog (114mg) tablet is recommended. For dogs weighing between 50.1 to 100.0 pounds, two Medium/Large Dog (114mg) tablets are recommended. For dogs weighing between 100.1 to 150.0 pounds, three Medium/Large Dog (114mg) tablets are recommended. For dogs weighing between 150.1 to 200.0 pounds, four Medium/Large Dog (114mg) tablets are recommended.

Pros

  • Controls seven strains of tape, hook, and roundworms
  • Easy to administer chewable tablets
  • No prescription required
  • Convenient 12 pack for multiple uses
  • Suitable for medium to large dogs

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for dogs under 25 pounds or over 200 pounds
  • – May not be effective against all types of parasites

4. Vet-Recommended K9 Flea, Tick & Mosquito Prevention.

The K9 Advantix II Large Dog 30-day treatment & prevention is an effective solution for protecting dogs weighing between 21-55 lbs. from a wide range of pests such as fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, and lice. It is a vet-recommended formula that kills and repels these pests on contact, eliminating the need for them to bite your furry friend. This product is easy to apply and fragrance-free. It is also waterproof after 24 hours of application. With this product, you can keep your dog free from pests for up to a month without the need for a prescription.

This topical treatment is designed to eliminate fleas within 12 hours of application, making it a fast-acting solution for your dog's pest problems. The formula is vet-recommended, ensuring that your furry friend is getting the best protection against pests. The product is also waterproof, which means that you don't have to worry about it washing off when your dog takes a swim. It is also fragrance-free, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive skin.

Pros

  • Fast-acting formula that eliminates fleas within 12 hours of application
  • Vet-recommended formula that kills and repels pests on contact
  • Easy-to-apply topical treatment that is waterproof after 24 hours of application
  • Fragrance-free formula that is great for dogs with sensitive skin
  • No prescription needed

5. Frontline Plus For Dogs Flea And Tick Treatment (Large Dog, 45-88 Lbs.) 6 Doses (Purple Box)

FRONTLINE Plus for Dogs is a highly effective and fast-acting flea and tick topical that offers protection for up to 30 days. It is specially formulated with fipronil and (S)-methoprene to kill existing adult fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, chewing lice, and ticks, thereby breaking the flea life cycle and preventing further infestations. The waterproof formula is also proven to kill ticks that can transmit Lyme disease.

This trusted product has been a favorite of pet owners for over 20 years and is safe for use on puppies as young as eight weeks old, weighing 5 pounds or more. With just one monthly dose, you can protect your furry friend from fleas and ticks for a full 30 days. It is easy to apply and provides long-lasting protection against these pesky parasites.

FRONTLINE Plus for Dogs also comes in a formula designed for cats and kittens eight weeks of age and older, weighing 1.5lbs and over, so you can protect all the pets in your household from fleas and ticks.

To effectively control fleas and ticks and prevent the establishment of new flea infestations, it is recommended to treat all dogs or cats in your household monthly. Subscribe & save today to ensure you never run out of FRONTLINE Plus and to make it easier to keep your pets protected year-round.

Pros

  • Fast-acting and highly effective
  • Kills fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, chewing lice, and ticks
  • Prevents further infestations and breaks the flea life cycle
  • Waterproof formula
  • Easy to apply with just one monthly dose
  • Suitable for puppies as young as eight weeks old, weighing 5 pounds or more
  • Trusted by pet owners for over 20 years
  • Also available in a formula designed for cats and kittens

Cons

  • – May cause skin irritation in some pets

6. Vet-Recommended Seresto Collar: Flea & Tick Protection

Introducing Seresto Flea and Tick Collar, a premium flea and tick protection for dogs and puppies that comes vet-recommended without the hefty price tag. This flea collar is designed to kill and repel fleas for eight continuous months, making it a long-lasting choice for pet owners. As the number one selling non-prescription flea and tick brand, it is stocked by over 8,000 vet clinics, according to Elanco Animal Health's data on file.

Seresto Flea and Tick Collar starts working within 24 hours to kill and repel fleas by contact, preventing pests from having to bite your dog to die. This hassle-free, non-greasy, and easy-to-use flea and tick protection ensures your pet is safe and free from flea and tick infestations.

With its premium quality and effectiveness, Seresto Flea and Tick Collar is a must-have for pet owners who want to keep their furry friends healthy and protected from fleas and ticks.

Pros

  • Vet-recommended flea and tick protection
  • Long-lasting for up to eight months
  • Number one selling non-prescription flea and tick brand
  • Effective within 24 hours
  • Hassle-free and non-greasy
  • Easy-to-use

7. Petarmor Plus: Fast & Waterproof Flea Treatment (Large)

PetArmor Plus offers a waterproof flea and tick prevention solution for dogs. This effective treatment kills fleas, flea eggs, larvae, ticks, and chewing lice for up to 30 days after application. It is a trusted, vet-quality formula containing fipronil and (S)-methoprene, the same active ingredients as FRONTLINE Plus for Dogs.

Unlike other flea and tick treatments that may only suppress flea activity temporarily, PetArmor Plus breaks the flea life cycle by eliminating flea eggs and larvae to prevent re-infestation. This fast-acting and long-lasting flea and tick protection requires only one application that lasts up to 30 days from nose to tail. A 6-dose package offers up to six months of protection.

Using PetArmor Plus is easy and convenient. The treatment comes with three (3) waterproof topical applications that provide flea protection and control for three (3) months. It is an effective solution to protect your furry friend from the discomforts of fleas and ticks.

Pros

  • Waterproof solution for long-lasting protection
  • Effectively kills fleas, flea eggs, larvae, ticks, and chewing lice
  • Contains trusted, vet-quality formula with fipronil and (S)-methoprene
  • Starts killing fleas within 24 hours
  • Breaks the flea life cycle to prevent re-infestation

Cons

  • – May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some dogs

8. Elanco Chewable Quad Dewormer For Large Dogs, 45 Lbs And Over, 2 Chewable Tablets

The beef-flavored chewable tablet of this dewormer makes it easy to give to dogs over 4 weeks of age. Its broad-spectrum formula is effective against a variety of worms, including tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. This product is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to address multiple types of worms with one medication. It is important to keep this dewormer out of the reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

This dewormer is a convenient solution for pet owners who want a reliable and effective way to protect their dogs from harmful worms. Its beef flavor makes it easy to administer, while its broad-spectrum formula ensures that it targets several types of parasites. It is important to note that this product is only for use in dogs over 4 weeks of age. Pet owners should always follow dosing instructions carefully and consult with a veterinarian if they have any concerns.

Protecting your dog from worms is an important part of maintaining their overall health and well-being. This dewormer offers a simple and effective way to do just that. Its broad-spectrum formula is designed to target tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms, which are common parasites that can cause significant health problems in dogs. With its beef flavor, pet owners can easily administer it to their furry friends. Just be sure to keep it out of reach of children to prevent any accidental ingestion.

Pros

  • Beef-flavored chewable tablet is easy to administer
  • Broad-spectrum formula targets multiple types of worms
  • Effective against tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms

Cons

  • – Only for use in dogs over 4 weeks of age
  • – Keep out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion

9. Frontline Plus For Dogs Flea And Tick Treatment (Medium Dog, 23-44 Lbs.) 3 Doses (Blue Box)

Protect your furry friend from fleas and ticks with FRONTLINE Plus for Dogs. This fast-acting and waterproof topical solution is specifically designed to kill fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, chewing lice, and ticks that can transmit Lyme disease. With FRONTLINE Plus, you can break the flea life cycle and prevent further infestations. It contains fipronil and (S)-methoprene that target adult fleas, eggs, and larvae for complete flea control.

FRONTLINE Plus for Dogs is trusted by pet owners for more than 20 years. It is safe for puppies as young as eight weeks old, weighing at least 5 pounds. With one monthly dose, your furry friend will be protected from fleas and ticks for 30 days. FRONTLINE Plus is also available in a formula for cats and kittens aged eight weeks and over.

It is crucial to treat all dogs or cats in your household monthly to effectively control fleas and ticks and prevent new flea infestations. Subscribe and save today to ensure year-round protection for your furry friend and never run out of FRONTLINE Plus.

Pros

  • Fast-acting and waterproof topical solution
  • Kills fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, chewing lice, and ticks
  • Prevents further infestations and breaks the flea life cycle
  • Safe for puppies aged eight weeks and over, weighing at least 5 pounds
  • Protects from fleas and ticks for 30 days with one monthly dose
  • Also available in a formula for cats and kittens aged eight weeks and over

10. Rapid Flea Relief For Medium To Large Dogs

Capstar is the perfect solution for pet owners who want to quickly and effectively tackle flea infestations. This fast-acting flea treatment starts killing fleas within 30 minutes of administration. Simply give your pet an oral flea tablet and watch dead fleas fall off your pet. If your pet gets re-infested with fleas, you can safely give another dose as often as once a day, making it an ideal treatment for re-infestations. Capstar oral flea treatment tablets are available without a veterinarian prescription, making it easy for pet owners to administer this cat flea tablet orally to kill adult fleas fast. These tablets are safe for dogs and puppies weighing from 25.1 to 125 lbs and are suitable for pets that are four weeks old and above.

Capstar is a fast and effective flea treatment that is perfect for pet owners who want to tackle flea infestations quickly. It is a safe and easy way to kill adult fleas, and you can see the results within just 30 minutes of administration. Capstar is also suitable for re-infestations, and pet owners can safely give another dose as often as once a day. This oral flea treatment does not require a veterinarian prescription, making it a convenient choice for pet owners. It is safe for dogs and puppies weighing from 25.1 to 125 lbs and is suitable for pets that are four weeks old and above.

If you are looking for a fast-acting and effective flea treatment, Capstar is the perfect choice. This oral flea tablet starts killing fleas within 30 minutes of administration, making it a quick solution for pet owners who want to tackle flea infestations. It is also safe for re-infestations, and pet owners can safely give another dose as often as once a day. Capstar does not require a veterinarian prescription, making it easy for pet owners to administer this cat flea tablet orally to kill adult fleas fast. It is safe for dogs and puppies weighing from 25.1 to 125 lbs and is suitable for pets that are four weeks old and above.

Pros

  • Fast-acting flea treatment
  • Kills fleas within 30 minutes of administration
  • Effective solution for flea infestations
  • Safe for re-infestations
  • Does not require a veterinarian prescription
  • Suitable for dogs and puppies weighing from 25.1 to 125 lbs
  • Safe for pets that are four weeks old and above

Best Heartworm Preventative For Dogs FAQs

Are there any side effects of heartworm preventative medication for dogs?

Yes, there can be side effects of heartworm preventative medication for dogs, although they are typically mild. The most common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Some dogs may also experience allergic reactions to the medication, which can cause symptoms such as itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. In rare cases, heartworm preventative medication can also cause neurological issues or liver damage. It's important to monitor your dog for any signs of adverse reactions and to speak with your veterinarian if you have any concerns. However, it's important to note that the benefits of heartworm preventative medication far outweigh any potential risks, as heartworm disease can be fatal if left untreated. It's recommended that all dogs receive regular heartworm preventative medication to protect their health and well-being.

How important is it to give my dog heartworm preventative medication year-round?

It is highly important to give your dog heartworm preventative medication year-round. Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms that live in the heart and lungs of infected dogs. The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes, and it only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to pass the disease to your dog. Heartworm prevention medication is the most effective way to protect your dog from this disease.

Giving your dog preventative medication year-round ensures that they are protected at all times, even during the off-season for mosquitoes. Heartworm preventative medication is available in various forms such as tablets, chewables, and topicals, and can be prescribed by your veterinarian. Skipping a month or two of preventative medication can put your dog at risk of heartworm disease, which can be difficult and expensive to treat.

In addition to giving your dog heartworm preventative medication, it is also important to have them tested annually for heartworm disease. Early detection and treatment can prevent the disease from progressing and causing serious health problems for your dog. Overall, giving your dog heartworm preventative medication year-round is an essential part of their healthcare routine and can ensure their long-term health and well-being.

How often should I give my dog heartworm preventative medication?

As a responsible pet owner, it's important to protect your dog from heartworm disease. Heartworms are transmitted through mosquito bites and can cause serious health issues for your furry friend. The best way to prevent heartworm disease is to administer monthly heartworm preventative medication.

The frequency of administering the medication depends on the type of medication you're using. Some medications require monthly doses, while others can be administered every six months. It's important to consult with your veterinarian to determine which medication is best for your dog and how often it should be given.

Additionally, it's important to administer the medication on time every month to ensure its effectiveness. Missing a dose or administering it late can leave your dog vulnerable to heartworm disease. It's also important to have your dog tested for heartworms annually, even if they are on preventative medication.

In summary, giving your dog heartworm preventative medication on a regular basis is crucial in protecting their health. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best medication and frequency for your furry friend.

What are the most effective heartworm preventatives for dogs?

Heartworm is a serious condition that can affect dogs of all breeds and sizes. It is caused by parasitic worms that live in the heart and lungs of dogs, and can lead to serious health problems and even death if left untreated. To prevent heartworm, there are several effective preventatives available on the market.

One of the most popular and effective heartworm preventatives for dogs is a monthly pill that contains ivermectin, which kills the heartworm larvae before they can develop into adult worms. Other options for heartworm prevention include topical treatments, which are applied to the skin, and injections that are given by a veterinarian.

It is important to discuss the best heartworm preventative options for your dog with your veterinarian, as they will be able to recommend the most effective and safe treatment based on your dog's age, weight, and medical history. It is also important to ensure that you are administering the preventative on a regular basis, as skipping doses can increase the risk of heartworm infection.

What is the best time of year to start giving my dog heartworm preventative medication?

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition that can affect dogs of all ages and breeds. The best time to start giving your dog heartworm preventative medication depends on where you live and the prevalence of mosquitoes in your area. Generally, heartworm medication should be given year-round, regardless of the season, to ensure your dog is protected from heartworm disease.

However, if you live in an area with a colder climate where mosquitoes are less active during the winter months, you may be able to stop giving your dog heartworm medication during this time. It's important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog's heartworm preventative medication. They can advise you on the best course of action based on your dog's individual needs and the prevalence of heartworm disease in your area.

In summary, the best time to start giving your dog heartworm preventative medication is year-round, but it's important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your dog's health and safety.

Leave a Comment