Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Is permethrin safe for dog tick prevention during deep woods hikes?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | neutered | 2 years and 6 months old | 80 lbs

Can permethrin be used on dogs when hiking deep in the woods

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Emily Luisana DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 12th, 2018

Hello! It is great you are thinking of tick prevention as ticks can transmit an alarming number of diseases to humans and dogs. Permethrin is in some products labeled for tick protection in dogs- use of these products is generally regarded as safe for dogs (NOT cats). However, I would not advocate the use of a non-canine product on a dog as the concentration of permethrin could be very different, and the other ingredients in a non-canine product may not be safe for dogs or alter the absorption of the permethrin. If your current tick prevention is not enough for hiking in the deep woods, I find that Seresto or Preventic collars can be helpful. I hope this helps!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored