Should I use flea shampoo on an 8-week-old puppy if label says 12+?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Can I use a flea shampoo on my 8 week old puppy even though the shampoo says to use on puppies 12 weeks and older?
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on November 13th, 2015
No, it is not recommended. Bathe him in warm water and some Dawn dish liquid. Use a fine toothed comb to remove dead or dying fleas. Dry him thoroughly afterwards and make sure he doesn't get chilled.
89Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 11th, 2019
Hello. Most flea & tick shampoos will have recommendations as to what age it can safely be used on puppies. There are still some that are OK at 8 weeks, but most will say 12 weeks. Rinsing your puppy was the correct thing to do. I am sure he will be fine. If you cannot find a medicated shampoo to use on such a young puppy, just use plain shampoo. The soap will kill most fleas until Loki is old enough to start using other flea & tick products. FYI, Nexguard & Frontline are 2 products labeled for puppies 8 weeks & older. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on July 29th, 2017
Under no circumstances would I bathe such a young pup, it can make them ill and effect their smell causing maternal rejection. If the puppy has fleas shampoo wont treat them anyway, I would recommend getting frontline spray to treat the puppy. Personally i would not bathe a dog until 6 months unless absoloutely necessary.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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