How does FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs work?
FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs contains the active ingredients fipronil and (S)-methoprene. The dual action protects your dog against fleas and ticks.
FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs spreads from the single point of applidogion, rapidly covering the entire dog and localizing in the hair, on the surface of the skin and in the sebaceous glands. These glands act as a reservoir, continuously replenishing FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs onto the skin and hair coat, so it keeps working even if the dog gets wet. Fleas and ticks are killed quickly after coming into contact with a treated dog. Fleas and ticks do not need to bite in order to die.
FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs also has the additional ingredient (S)-methoprene. This ingredient is an insect growth regulator (IGR) which prevents all flea stages (eggs, larvae, and pupae) from developing.
One dose (pipette) of FRONTLINE® Plus for Dogs should be applied once per month to protect against fleas and ticks. Year-round application is essential for pets in many parts of the country.
Do I need to use other flea & tick treatments while using FRONTLINE® Plus for Dogs?
No, FRONTLINE® Plus for Dogs is an effective treatment against fleas and ticks that works for a full month. If applied correctly and on a regular monthly basis, you do not need to use any other treatments while using FRONTLINE® Plus for Dogs.
Do I need to treat my dog for fleas and ticks even in colder months?
Yes, although the likelihood of your dog being affected by fleas decreases in the winter months, climates can vary and result in mild winters, favoring the survival of fleas outdoors for much longer. Fleas can also continue to develop indoors in homes thanks to warmer temperatures. Ticks can also be a problem year-round with some species of ticks attempting to acquire a host when temperatures are just above freezing. Therefore, it’s important to keep protecting your dog throughout the year.
My dog doesn’t go outside much, do I still need to treat them for fleas and ticks?
Yes, even ‘indoor-only’ dogs can become exposed to fleas. For instance, ‘indoor-only’ dogs still spend time outdoors whether it be to go on a walk or just going to the bathroom outside. Your dog can pick up fleas and ticks in your own backyard! Your dog could also be exposed if an untreated animal visits your home or if you or a friend brings in fleas on shoes or clothing.
Why might I see fleas on my dog after treatment?
You are likely seeing NEW fleas on your pet, which are jumping on your dog as it moves through infested areas in and around your home. These fleas will be killed by FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs before they can reproduce. Depending on the severity of the existing infestation, you may continue to see new fleas jumping on your pet for three months or more. To prevent new infestations, continue to apply FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs MONTHLY throughout the year.
FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs kills fleas by overstimulating the flea nervous system, and hyperexcited fleas may move to the top of the haircoat before they die. So, seeing fleas on top of the haircoat after applying FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs can be an indication that the product is working.
FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs kills ticks, but after treatment, ticks may still attach to your pet. If you see an attached tick on your dog, it is recommended for the tick to be removed and discarded (please see CDC recommendations on Tick Removal).
What is the best way to remove a flea infestation in my home?
Flea infestations are unpleasant for you and your dog, and can take three months or more to resolve, so be patient. Follow these steps to help resolve the problem:
- Ensure all pets in your home are treated with an appropriate product, such as FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs on dogs and FRONTLINE® PLUS for Cats on cats, at the recommended intervals for at least three consecutive months.
- Vacuum more often than usual – ideally daily – and focus on places your dog spends a lot of time, for example, carpets, the floor and furniture.
- Regularly wash your dog's bedding in hot water.
- Ensure your dog has access to all the same parts of the home that they usually do. Fleas present in those areas will be killed when they hop onto your treated dog.
- In some cases, it may be helpful to contact a pest control specialist.
What are the signs of fleas on my dog?
Apart from visually seeing fleas on your dog or in your home, other signs that your dog might have fleas include increased itching, scratching, licking, nibbling and over-grooming which can lead to damaged hairs or patches of hair loss. You may also see small dark red or black specks on your dog’s skin, bedding or on furniture.
How do dogs pick up fleas?
Dogs pick up fleas from anywhere untreated dogs have been – indoors or outdoors. Fleas on an untreated dog (or other animal host) can lay many eggs. Each female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day. These eggs fall off into the environment, and over a period of weeks to months, these eggs develop into new adult fleas ready to jump onto your dog.
Why is it important to use the correct pack size for my dog’s weight?
Using the correct pack size ensures your dog receives the optimum dose for which the product has been shown to be effective.
Can my dog get wet right after applying FRONTLINE® Plus for Dogs?
Your dog needs to be dry at the time FRONTLINE® Plus for Dogs is applied and remain dry 24 hours after application.
Where can I find the expiration date for FRONTLINE® Plus for Dogs and how long will it last once I’ve bought it?
FRONTLINE® Plus for Dogs has no expiration date.
How long does it take FRONTLINE® Plus for Dogs to start working?
A study showed that within 12 hours, FRONTLINE® Plus for Dogs killed 100% of fleas.
What should I do before I treat my dog?
Read entire label and enclosed directions before each use.
Can my cat be around my dog after application?
Keep cats away from treated dogs for 24 hours or until product has dried. If applied to a cat or ingested by a cat, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Can FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs be used on any breed of dog?
Yes, FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs can be used on any breed of dog.
My dog is pregnant/lactating. Can I use FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs during this time?
FRONTLINE® PLUS for Dogs is approved for use in pregnant and lactating dogs.
I did not see the answer to my questions. Where can I find the additional information?
If you have any additional questions about our FRONTLINE® Plus for Dogs, feel free to reach out to the Veterinary Technical Solutions Team anytime at 1-888-637-4251.