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Do flea and tick shampoos and sprays work? What are affordable alternatives?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 1 year and 8 months old

I don't have the money for flea and tick stuff. Does the flea and tick shampoos and sprays work? If so can you maybe recommend a brand?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on April 7th, 2017

Unfortunately, I have not seen good success at all with any flea/tick shampoos or sprays - in addition, many of these products can be toxic, so I don't recommend them. If costs are an issue, you should be able to get K9 Advantix fairly inexpensively over the counter - this works well for most dogs, and costs less than prescription products. A Seresto flea/tick collar is also a reasonable option - it's a bit more expensive up front, but provides protection for eight months so per month, it's one of the least expensive options available.

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