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The 6 Best Flea And Tick Treatments For Dogs In 2024, With Advice From Vets
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The best flea and tick treatments for dogs are essential for protecting your pet against harmful parasites. Many dog flea and tick preventatives also treat lice and prevent heartworm infections. These safe and effective medications come in the form of topical spot-ons, chewable tablets, shampoos, and collars.
To make our picks for the top flea and tick treatments, we asked veterinarians how to best manage parasites in puppies and adult dogs. Then we researched products using the Companion Animal Parasite Council's quick product reference guide. Our top pick is Advantage Multi, a prescription medicine that prevents and controls fleas and protects against heartworm. If you're looking for an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine, we recommend Frontline Plus for dogs, a topical flea and tick treatment that you apply once a month.
It's important to ask your veterinarian what type of flea and tick preventative is best for your dog. The ideal product depends on your dog's temperament, lifestyle, and the most common parasites where you live.
Read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.
Our top picks for the best flea and tick treatments for dogsBest topical preventative overall: Advantage Multi for Dogs - See at Chewy
Best OTC topical preventative: Frontline Plus for Dogs - See at Chewy
Best pill: Simparica TRIO - See at Chewy
Best for young puppies: Capstar for Dogs - See at Chewy
Best collar: Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs - See at Chewy
Best shampoo: Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo with Precor - See at Chewy
Best topical preventative overall Advantage Multi for DogsWith just one easy monthly application, Advantage Multi for Dogs treats, controls, and prevents more parasites than any other topical product.
Not even the best flea medicines control every harmful parasite, but Advantage Multi for Dogs comes close. It's also one of our top picks for the best flea and tick treatments for puppies.
Advantage Multi is a topical spot-on product that contains the active ingredients imidacloprid and moxidectin, which prevent flea infestations by killing adult fleas before they can lay eggs. It also prevents heartworm, mange mites, and three intestinal parasites (roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms). But if your dog already has worms, your vet may recommend treating them with one of the best dog dewormers. As with all medications that prevent heartworm, your dog needs a heartworm test before starting Advantage Multi and annually after that.
Advantage Multi is easy to use: Every 30 days, apply it to your dog's skin at the base of their neck between the shoulder blades. The liquid medication is absorbed and dries within hours. Unlike other topical preventatives, you don't need to wear gloves to apply Advantage Multi. If you get the product on your hands, just wash them with soap and water. For a half-hour after application, keep dogs from licking the application site, either on themselves or other treated dogs. Children should not touch the application site for two hours.
Advantage Multi does not prevent ticks. If you need to control ticks, consider Frontline Plus for Dogs, Bravecto Topical for Dogs, or K9 Advantix II.
Best OTC topical preventative Frontline Plus for DogsAvailable without a prescription, Frontline Plus for Dogs kills adult fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, ticks, and chewing lice on contact.
Among the best flea and tick treatments for dogs, Frontline Plus is our top pick because it kills ticks and fleas, controls flea infestations, and kills chewing lice with one easy application. Each dose of Frontline Plus lasts up to three months for flea control. If you're concerned about ticks or biting lice, apply it monthly.
Frontline Plus has been used and trusted by pet owners for over 20 years. Parasites do not have to bite your dog for the treatment to work because the medicine works on contact. Its active ingredients, fipronil and S-methoprene, work together to kill parasites and break the flea life cycle. Fipronil kills adult fleas and ticks, while S-methoprene prevents flea eggs, larvae, and pupae from developing. If your pet has a lot of fleas, it can take up to a month of consistent use to get rid of them because flea eggs can be in your home but not on your dog.
Frontline Plus is easy to use. Squeeze all the liquid in the tube onto one spot of your dog's skin between the shoulder blades. The liquid medication spreads across the skin and gets stored in their oil glands. Then it distributes itself continuously via the hair follicles.
Best pill Simparica TRIO for DogsSimparica TRIO treats, controls, and prevents more parasites than any other oral product, offering a full month of protection with one easy-to-give flavored pill.
Simparica TRIO is our pick for the best flea and tick treatment for dogs in pill form. The fast-acting chewable tablet kills more parasites than any other oral product. It starts to work within four hours and kills 100% of adult fleas on dogs within eight hours.
It may be tough to choose between an oral or topical flea control product because there are pros and cons to each type of product. In some cases, an oral preventive is a better choice. For instance, some dogs with sensitive skin can't tolerate spot-on treatments. "Oral products have the benefit of broad coverage to reach every spot of skin without the chance of the product being washed off," says Dr. Kate Crumley, a veterinarian with Blue Heron Consulting.
You can give the liver-flavored tablets with or without food once a month. The treatment contains three ingredients (sarolaner, moxidectin, pyrantel) and provides an entire month of protection against more parasites than any other oral product. Simparica TRIO is also safe for some of the youngest puppies and smallest dogs. It requires a prescription from your veterinarian and a negative heartworm test. You should use it with caution if your dog has a history of neurologic disorders such as seizures.
Best for young puppies Elanco Capstar for DogsCapstar for Dogs is safe for puppies as young as 4 weeks old and starts killing fleas within 30 minutes.
You want to eliminate fleas as quickly as possible if your dog has a heavy infestation, especially if they're a young puppy. Available without a prescription, Capstar for Dogs is the only flea control product safe for puppies as young as 4 weeks and weighing at least 2 pounds. With other topical and oral flea control medicines, puppies must be at least 8 weeks old and sometimes older.
The active ingredient in Capstar, nitenpyram, works within 30 minutes and kills more than 90% of adult fleas in as little as four hours. It only protects for 24 hours, but it is safe to give daily if necessary. Daily dosing is helpful for young puppies who might not be old enough for an oral or spot-on treatment that provides long-term protection. Once your puppy is old enough, you should follow up with a flea control product that provides a month or more of protection.
Best collarEditor's note: A March 2021 investigation by USA Today reported 1,700 animal deaths and other adverse reactions linked to Seresto flea collars. It's unknown if the EPA-approved pesticides used in the collar caused these incidents. You can read more about the safety of Seresto collars in our FAQs.
Flea collars were once the go-to method for flea control, but most collars don't offer the same level of protection as topical and oral treatments. One noteworthy collar is the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs, which uses sustained-release technology to provide eight months of continuous protection against adult fleas, flea larvae, four species of ticks, chewing lice, and mange mites.
In general, the best flea and tick treatments for dogs are topical spot-on and oral preventatives, but the Seresto collar might be a good option in certain situations. Dr. Kelley Lay, a relief veterinarian in Nashville, Tennessee, says that traditional flea and tick collars are generally not very effective. She has even seen allergic reactions and other issues with some of them. However, she says the Seresto collar is safe and effective and recommends it to clients with pets who don't tolerate topical or oral flea and tick preventives.
The collar is nongreasy, odor-free, lightweight, and adjustable for dogs of all sizes. Your dog can wear it alongside their regular collar, and it has a safety system to keep them safe if the collar gets caught on something. The collar's active ingredients, imidacloprid and flumethrin, are released in low concentrations over your dog's skin and coat to kill fleas and ticks on contact within 24 hours. You don't need to remove this water-resistant collar during swimming or bathing with one of the best dog shampoos.
Best shampooAdams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo is our top pick for the best flea and tick shampoos for dogs. In addition to killing fleas, flea eggs and larvae, ticks, and lice for up to 28 days, the shampoo soothes skin that has become dry and irritated from flea bites and constant scratching.
The shampoo contains synthetic pesticides commonly included in flea and tick shampoos: pyrethrins and S-methoprene (Precor). It also contains piperonyl butoxide to enhance the effectiveness of those pesticides. Oatmeal helps heal irritated and itchy skin, and the shampoo has a pleasant coconut scent.
Lay says flea shampoos are fine to use alongside prescription flea control medications. However, shampoos shouldn't be considered the first or best line of defense against fleas. Veterinarian-prescribed, year-round prevention remains the gold standard. Despite marketing claims, these shampoos don't provide substantial flea protection after the bath, so your dog may be susceptible to repeated infestations. Some ingredients in shampoos can also irritate the skin.
What to look for in flea and tick treatments for dogsSafety and efficacy: FDA- or EPA-approved products have undergone rigorous safety and efficacy testing before going to market.
Number of parasites treated: Using a product that protects against more than just fleas is convenient. While your veterinarian can advise you on which product is best for your dog, we generally favor products that cover more parasites.
There are some exceptions. For instance, Capstar treats only fleas, but it is the only medicine available for puppies younger than 6 weeks. OTC products, like Frontline Plus, protect against additional parasites such as ticks and lice but not heartworms. Products that treat heartworm always require a veterinary prescription.
Ease of use: The easier it is to use a product, the better. For example, chewable tablets are quick and easy to give your dog, provided they like the flavor. Products that require a person to wear gloves when they apply it or require the treated animal to stay away from children or other pets for a while may be a hassle.
Minimum age and weight: Flea treatments are intended for dogs above a minimum age and weight. Your options for a very young puppy will be more limited until they are older and weigh more.
Prescription vs. Over-the-counter: Some flea control products are available over the counter. Others require a prescription from your veterinarian. You can buy prescription medicines from your veterinarian or online pet pharmacies and stores like Chewy, Petco, and PetSmart.
Prescription flea control products typically cost more than OTC options because they protect against more parasites, most importantly, deadly heartworms. Dogs must test negative for heartworms before starting a heartworm preventive.
Types of flea and tick medications: There are several types of treatments, including topical, oral, collars, shampoos, and sprays. Cost, convenience, ease of use, and effectiveness vary among these products. Your vet can help you determine the best type for your dog. We advise against flea sprays because topical spot-ons and oral products are more effective. Remember that some dogs with sensitive skin may not tolerate topical products. Crumley says that frequent bathing or swimming may also reduce the effectiveness of a topical product that remains on the skin's surface.
Natural vs. Synthetic: Our experts do not recommend using natural products instead of veterinarian-recommended topical and oral flea control. While natural treatments can deter fleas and ticks, they won't eliminate an infestation. "If you use them, be prepared to apply them at least daily before your pet goes outside for the best chance of keeping the hitchhikers from latching on," Crumley says. If you also have kitties at home, avoid natural flea control products containing essential oils because some can be toxic to cats.
Other pets in your home: Any product labeled for use in only dogs should never be given to a cat. Some ingredients can be toxic to cats. While any dog-only flea product can harm felines, cats are especially sensitive to pyrethrins. If you're looking for a safe product for your cat, check out our guide to the best flea and tick treatments for cats.
How we selected the best flea and tick treatments for dogsWe consulted two veterinarians for advice regarding the treatment and prevention of fleas and other parasites in dogs. This information guided our selection of the best flea treatments for dogs, but our experts did not endorse any of the products included in this guide unless explicitly quoted.
We also conducted research using the quick product reference guide published by the independent, nonprofit Companion Animal Parasite Council. This helpful reference includes all FDA- and EPA-approved parasite control products for small animals along with each product's active ingredients, directions for how to use it, and which parasites it controls.
Dog flea and trick treatments FAQs What do vets recommend to get rid of fleas?Getting rid of fleas can take several days to weeks. Veterinarians recommend a multipronged approach: Kill the existing fleas, prevent new infestations, and treat the environment, both indoors and outside. If you have multiple pets, treat them at the same time. Treating inside your home involves vacuuming where flea eggs and larvae like to hide, such as cracks and crevices, and washing bedding in hot water. Treating outdoors involves eliminating any areas where fleas could hide, such as piles of leaves and tall grass. If this process seems daunting, you can hire a pest control service.
What is the most effective flea treatment for dogs?There is no single treatment that works best for all dogs. The best flea and tick treatments for dogs vary in many ways, including how many parasites they target, active ingredients, safety restrictions, and how long they're effective. The most desirable treatments provide long-lasting protection, target adult fleas as well as eggs and larvae, and are effective against other parasites, such as heartworm and intestinal worms. Your veterinarian can help you select the most appropriate product for your dog.
Do dogs really need flea and tick medicine?Yes. Not only are fleas and ticks a big nuisance, they also carry diseases that can make dogs extremely ill. Although you may be tempted to use parasite preventives only in spring and summer, fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and intestinal parasites are resilient. Veterinarians recommend that dogs stay on broad-spectrum parasite preventives all year.
What are the types of flea and tick medicine for dogs?Flea and tick medicines are available as oral and topical products, collars, and shampoos. Oral products are chewable tablets, while topical products are ointments that go directly on the skin. Flea collars have fallen out of favor because they are less effective than oral and topical treatments. Shampoos are also less effective and do not provide long-lasting flea protection. These medicines are available over the counter or by prescription and contain different active ingredients to kill and repel fleas and ticks.
What kills fleas permanently?To eliminate fleas permanently, you'll need to do more than kill adult fleas. The other developmental stages, egg and larvae, must also be eliminated. Products that kill the early stages of fleas are the most effective. Year-round flea and tick treatment is also crucial to preventing future infestations. It may take several weeks before all the fleas are gone.
Which is better, NexGard or Frontline?Both NexGard and Frontline kill fleas at all life stages, plus ticks. Both treatments have their advantages. There are several Frontline products: Shield, Plus, and Gold. Our top choice for an OTC flea preventive is Frontline Plus, which also protects against chewing lice and helps control sarcoptic mange infestations. Compared to Frontline Plus, NexGard kills fleas more quickly (4 hours versus 12 hours) and ticks (24 hours versus 48 hours). For this reason, NexGard is a better choice for preventing the transmission of Lyme disease from ticks. Some veterinarians also use NexGard to treat mange.
What is the safest flea and tick medicine for dogs?Flea and tick medicines are FDA-approved to be safe and effective. However, these medicines also have safety restrictions depending on age, weight, and whether a dog is pregnant or nursing. Some treatments also have safety warnings for dogs with a history of seizures or other neurologic disorders. As you evaluate flea and tick medicines, check the label to ensure it's safe for your dog.
What is the difference between prescription and OTC flea medicine?Some flea control products are sold over the counter, while others require a prescription. Prescription products typically cost more than OTC treatments because they protect against more parasites, including heartworms. However, OTC options can still provide effective, long-lasting treatment against fleas and other parasites.
Can I get flea and tick medicine without a vet prescription?Yes, OTC treatments are available without a prescription. These medicines usually do not protect against as many parasites as prescription flea and tick products.
Do flea collars work?Yes. Flea collars work but are generally less effective than topical or oral treatments. Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs provides eight months of protection against adult fleas, flea larvae, ticks, and mange mites. Lay recommends flea collars for dogs that cannot tolerate topical or oral flea products.
Is Seresto harmful to dogs?In March 2021, USA Today and the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting published a report alleging that the Seresto flea collar is linked to thousands of adverse incidents in pets and humans. To date, 2,500 pet deaths have been allegedly linked to the collar.
Elanco published a statement defending the collar's safety and efficacy. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and Pet Poison Hotline followed suit. The EPA recommends pet owners read the entire label before using any flea collar and follow all directions carefully. Your veterinarian can provide additional safety guidance. Purchase a Seresto collar only from a reputable online retailer, brick-and-mortar store with a guarantee program, or your veterinarian. To verify product authenticity, call Elanco product support at 800-422-9874. If your pet has an adverse reaction, immediately remove the collar and call your veterinarian. Tim Carroll, EPA's press secretary, advises pet owners to contact the National Pesticide Information Center and report adverse reactions to the EPA.
How can I tell if my dog has fleas?Fleas are hard to see with the naked eye. Look for signs of a flea infestation on your dog, including nonstop biting, scratching, or licking and red, irritated skin. Flea dirt, a rust-colored mixture of blood meal and dried feces, is a telltale sign of fleas and can be found in places your dog spends time, such as their bed. Running a flea comb against the direction of your dog's fur can pick up the dirt. You can often see it on your dog in hard-to-reach places like the base of the tail, middle of the back, and groin. Other signs include pale gums, which are a sign of anemia, and patches of hair loss.
Jackie Brown
Freelance Writer
Pet expert Jackie Brown has spent 20 years following her passion for animals as a writer and editor in the pet industry. Her expertise includes dog and cat health, care, nutrition, feeding, grooming, behavior, and training. Jackie writes regularly for pet and veterinary industry media, including Dogster and Catster magazines, The Spruce Pets, Great Pet Care and All About Cats. She is a contributing writer for "National Geographic's Complete Guide to Pet Health, Behavior, and Happiness" and author of the book "It's Raining Cats and Dogs: Making Sense of Animal Phrases." She is contributing editor of Dogster and Catster magazines, and the former editor of numerous pet magazines, including Dog World, Natural Dog, Puppies 101, Kittens 101, and the Popular Cats Series. Jackie earned her bachelor of arts degree in English from the University of California, Irvine. Prior to starting her career in publishing, she spent eight years working in veterinary hospitals where she assisted veterinarians as they treated dogs, cats, rabbits, pocket pets, reptiles, birds, and one memorable lion cub. She lives in Southern California with her husband, two sons, and miniature poodle Jäger, who she grooms at home. Jackie can be reached at jackiebrownwriter.Wordpress.Com. Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here. Read more Read lessJoAnna Pendergrass, DVM
Freelance Contributor
JoAnna Pendergrass, DVM, is a veterinarian and founder of JPen Communications, a medical communications company that specializes in pet owner education. Her expertise extends across many areas of veterinary medicine, including preventive pet care, nutrition, and common (and not-so-common) dog and cat diseases. Dr. Pendergrass earned her veterinary degree from the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, then completed a research fellowship at Emory University's Yerkes National Primate Research Center. During this fellowship, she decided to combine her love of science and writing by becoming a medical writer. After working at medical communications agencies for several years, Dr. Pendergrass transitioned to freelancing. She currently writes for several veterinary publications, including Great Pet Care, Healthy Paws Pet Insurance, and All About Cats. She has previously written for PetMD, Pet Coach, dvm360, and American Veterinarian. Dr. Pendergrass can be reached at http://www.Jpencmc.Com. Read more Read less9 Most Sensitive Dog Breeds That Feel Deeply
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When we picture dogs, we often imagine joyful, energetic creatures bounding around with excitement. However, some dog breeds are more sensitive and thrive in peaceful, quiet settings. Being sensitive isn't a flaw; it simply means these dogs are more emotionally tender and respond deeply to their environments.
Sensitive dogs might react strongly to stern looks or harsh words, whereas others might not flinch. This sensitivity makes them incredibly attuned to their owner's feelings, often creating a deep, empathetic bond. It's important to remember that sensitivity in dogs is often rooted in genetics, making some breeds more prone to these traits than others. But this doesn't mean they lack the capacity to be social, happy, or fun-loving.
Understanding and respecting their sensitive nature allows you to nurture a dog that is both a gentle companion and an enthusiastic partner in all your adventures. If you're seeking a dog that mirrors your emotions and connects with you on a profound level, these sensitive breeds might just be your perfect match.
Most Sensitive Dog Breeds 1. Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, known for its protective nature due to its breeding history, tends to be quite sensitive to its environment. This breed may instinctively bark at unfamiliar presences as a way of guarding their family, but with proper training, this behavior can be well-managed.
Early and comprehensive socialization is crucial for Dogue de Bordeaux puppies. Exposing them to a variety of people, pets, and settings is key to helping them develop into well-adjusted adults, preventing shyness or fearfulness. Despite their imposing appearance, these dogs are incredibly sensitive and require a trusting relationship with their owner. AKC notes that harsh training methods are not suitable for this breed; instead, they respond best to discipline that is firm yet gentle.
Adaptable to various living situations, the Dogue de Bordeaux can thrive even in an apartment setting if their physical and mental needs are met. This breed is not suited for the overly timid or excessively busy person, as they require dedicated time and understanding to truly flourish.
2. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are energetic, protective, and incredibly attuned to their environments. As a herding breed, they possess an acute visual sensitivity, often noticing subtle movements and details that other breeds might overlook. This heightened awareness makes them exceptionally vigilant but also predisposes them to anxiety, especially in situations where they cannot exercise control.
Given their breeding background, Australian Shepherds have a natural inclination to manage and direct the movement of their "herd," whether that's sheep in a field or the members of their human family. This need for control, combined with their high energy levels, means that they require regular, vigorous exercise, thorough socialization, and consistent companionship to remain balanced and happy.
Training an Australian Shepherd with positive reinforcement is highly effective, tapping into their strong desire to learn and please their owners. This approach not only fosters a positive learning environment but also helps mitigate their anxiety by providing clear, consistent commands and expectations.
3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terriers, commonly known as Staffies, present a strong and muscular exterior that might seem intimidating at first glance, but this perception belies their true nature. These dogs are not just playful; they are also deeply sensitive and crave human interaction. Known for their loyalty, Staffies form close bonds with their owners and often desire constant companionship. This can sometimes result in them being overly clingy, and they may experience anxiety when left alone.
Given their impulsive and sometimes stubborn nature, training a Staffie requires patience, persistence, and a firm hand. It's crucial to start socialization early and maintain it consistently throughout their lives, especially since they were originally bred for dog fighting.
Staffies possess a high intelligence level, necessitating regular mental and physical stimulation to keep them engaged and in good shape. Their fearless and profoundly loyal nature makes them excellent family protectors, although this same trait can lead to challenges if they perceive a threat to their loved ones.
4. Rottweiler
Despite their sturdy and formidable appearance, Rottweilers have a tender side that yearns for understanding and gentle handling. Known for their deep loyalty and strong desire to please, Rottweilers are highly responsive to both emotional and physical cues, making them exceptionally attuned to their owners' feelings.
To cultivate their naturally loyal and affectionate disposition, early socialization and ongoing mental stimulation are essential. These activities help to mold a well-rounded character, preventing behavioral issues and enhancing their sociability. Rottweilers are particularly prone to separation anxiety due to their intense bond with their human families, making them best suited for homes where someone is present for much of the day.
Many Rottweilers relish opportunities to cuddle and connect, traits that also make them excellent therapy dogs. Their intuitive nature allows them to read human emotions effectively, providing comfort and support just when it's needed most.
5. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are known for their sensitivity, particularly in training situations where they thrive with a gentle yet firm approach. This sensitivity often comes from their deep desire to please and their natural empathy toward human emotions, making them exceptionally responsive to their owner's feelings and commands.
To ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults, it's crucial that they receive proper socialization with people and other animals early in their lives. Without this, they may exhibit signs of fearfulness or defensive behavior.
These dogs excel when training is based on positive reinforcement and emotional support. AKC notes that Golden Retrievers are inherently social and friendly, exhibiting warmth not just towards their family but also towards strangers and other pets. Their loving and playful nature makes them excellent companions, thriving in environments where they can interact frequently and build strong bonds with those around them.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, with their enchanting eyes and regal demeanor, is the epitome of a companion breed that thrives on close human interaction. These charming dogs often struggle with separation anxiety and can become quite distressed when left alone for extended periods. Symptoms of their distress may include destructive behavior, excessive vocalization, or attempts to escape.
Incredibly sensitive to the tone of voice and emotions of their owners, Cavaliers respond best to gentle guidance and positive reinforcement. Harsh reprimands or punishment can be not only counterproductive but also deeply damaging to their emotional well-being.
Given their need for constant company, Cavaliers do best in homes where they can interact frequently with their family members and are not left alone for long hours. Their emotional health is tightly linked to their physical health; they require regular veterinary check-ups, a well-balanced diet, and plenty of affection and companionship to stay happy and healthy.
7. Doberman Pinscher
Dobermans are incredibly sensitive dogs, with emotions that can be easily affected. Known for their loyalty, they develop deep bonds with their families and thrive on constant interaction and companionship. This breed's need for attention is so strong that they can become clingy and may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
With their high intelligence and a natural inclination to lead, Dobermans can sometimes try to outsmart their owners. This can lead to unruly behavior if they sense that their owner is not confidently taking charge. They require an owner who is firm yet kind, clear, consistent, and patient in communication.
Emotionally sensitive yet instinctively protective, Dobermans are determined to defend their family and home. They need to feel part of a strong, secure pack, where their protective nature can be properly channeled and appreciated.
8. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are celebrated for their loyalty, affectionate nature, and remarkable sensitivity to their owners' emotions. These traits make Labs exceptional companions, particularly skilled at reading human feelings and offering comfort through a gentle nudge or their calming presence at precisely the right time. Their intelligence and eagerness to please also make them superbly suited for roles as therapy or assistance dogs.
Renowned for their gentle, tolerant, and easy-going temperament, Labradors are typically friendly toward strangers, other dogs, and are exceptionally patient with children. Consistently ranked as America's favorite dog breed, Labradors thrive on affection and love being at the center of family activities.
Although their size might exceed the typical lap dog, Labradors will often attempt to curl up in your lap, seizing every opportunity for a cuddle. This endearing behavior is just one of the many reasons why they continue to be beloved by so many.
9. Border Collie
Border Collies, renowned for their sharp intelligence and intense work ethic, are also notably sensitive to various stimuli such as sound, movement, and even reprimands. This heightened sensitivity is deeply ingrained in their breeding and temperament. Originally bred to herd livestock, Border Collies had to be acutely attuned to commands and environmental signals without constant guidance from their handlers, which makes them highly responsive to subtle cues in their surroundings.
However, this same sensitivity can become a drawback. Border Collies' keen awareness can lead them to become overly reactive and possibly anxious, particularly when they lack adequate mental and physical stimulation. WebMD points out that if they become bored or are left alone for too long, their sensitivity can turn inward, leading to behaviors that may include excessive barking, chewing, or other forms of destructiveness.
For Border Collies to thrive, they require an environment that offers plenty of activities and mental challenges. They flourish in homes where they can receive consistent attention and are involved in activities that harness their natural herding instincts and cognitive abilities.
ConclusionSensitive dog breeds, from the loyal Labrador Retriever to the intelligent Border Collie and the protective Staffordshire Bull Terrier, have a profound connection with human emotions that makes them exceptional family members and companions.
These dogs are not just pets; they are emotional anchors, often serving roles as emotional support animals or rescue dogs due to their innate ability to understand and react to human feelings. Breeds like the Australian Shepherd and the Golden Retriever demonstrate time and again their capability to provide comfort and emotional well-being to those around them.
Whether it's the focused energy of a Border Collie or the empathetic nature of a Labrador Retriever, each requires a nurturing environment that values their emotional insights. Owners of such breeds understand that these dogs respond strongly to their environment and need consistent affection and understanding. In return, these sensitive breeds offer unparalleled companionship, making them perfect for anyone seeking a deep, empathetic relationship with their pet.
10 Best Dog Harnesses For Walking And Lifting Your Furry Friend
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Walking your dog is a big part of owning a pup, but when they pull — say when they see their best friend from across the street — it can strain the neck and joints. That's where the best dog harnesses come in. Vets agree that harnesses are generally safer for leash attachment than traditional collars. However, you may still want a collar for ID tags or GPS dog collar. My mini schnauzer Woof Woof is much safer in a harness because he tugs a bit when walking, and I don't want him to experience neck strain.
In this guide, we'll explore what features to look for in the best dog harnesses, why your dog may prefer one type of harness over another, and options that will suit a range of dogs from small dogs to older dogs who may need assistance going upstairs.
Our top picks for best dog harnesses Best dog harness for extra-large dogs PetSafe Gentle Leader Padded Dog HeadcollarThe Gentle Leader is a head-holder harness that doesn't strap around the dog's torso, allowing dogs to run alongside you without being cumbersome. Dogs feel like they're running through the park — while remaining safely attached to their human.
This harness attaches behind the ears, high on the neck and around the dog's mouth. Properly fitted, it won't restrict a dog's mouth movement: They can still pant, bark and drink. "I have used it with my big dogs after some simple training," says Dr. Julie Buzby, an integrative veterinarian and CEO of ToeGrips.
The AP Buyline takeawayThis harness from PetSafe is the best lightweight option for dogs who pull and canines on the larger side.
DetailsThis harness from PetSafe is the best lightweight option for dogs who pull and canines on the larger side.
Best fitting dog harness Blue-9 Buckle-Neck Balance HarnessA good fit is essential for a dog harness, so choosing one with adjustable parts is important. The Blue-9 Buckle-Neck harness is comfortable for the dog, doesn't restrict movement and won't put pressure on your doggie's shoulders. This harness encompasses the ribcage, reducing overall pressure on soft tissue. It also features two D-rings to help manage pulling.
The AP Buyline takeawayThis nylon harness is comfortable and adjustable, so dogs can wear it as they grow.
DetailsThis nylon harness is comfortable and adjustable, so dogs can wear it as they grow.
Best dog harness for puppies Puppia Soft Dog HarnessIf you're looking for your puppy's first harness, the Puppia Soft Dog Harness is easy to put on over the head and extra soft, featuring extra padding around the neck. It's also machine or hand-washable. However, since it is a higher harness in the front, it may not be a good one for small breeds as they age, as harnesses are generally better to fit lower on the neck.
The AP Buyline takeawayIf you have a puppy or a hard-to-fit dog, this harness' six adjustment points make it a good option.
DetailsIf you have a puppy or a hard-to-fit dog, this harness' six adjustment points make it a good option.
Best dog harness for hiking Ruffwear Hi & Light HarnessRuffwear has a whole line of harnesses, shoes and other accessories for the outdoorsy canine. This durable harness is adjustable and features a debris-resistant lining to help keep it cleaner for longer. Side buckles make it easy to get your dog in and out of the harness, and reflective materials make sure you're visible. Plus, this harness features a handy pocket for storing waste bags and ID tags.
The AP Buyline takeawayRuffwear is an adventure dog brand that offers a wide range of sizes with additional adjustments so harnesses fit nearly any size or shape dog.
DetailsRuffwear is an adventure dog brand that offers a wide range of sizes with additional adjustments so harnesses fit nearly any size or shape dog.
Best cooling harness Ruffwear Swamp Cooler HarnessWhen it's hot out, keeping your dog cool under all that fur is essential. Ruffwear's Swamp Cooler harness has specially designed layers that you can moisten to keep your dog just a bit happier during the dog days of summer. But be prepared to rewet the harness with cold water on a long walk. I extend the period by putting the harness in the freezer before Woof Woof's walk. In addition, the wicking outer layer reflects heat and allows for evaporation, while the six adjustment points ensure you can find the best fit for your pup.
The AP Buyline takeawayThis harness is the best option to keep your dog cool for about 20 minutes at a time while walking in the heat.
DetailsThis harness is the best option to keep your dog cool for about 20 minutes at a time while walking in the heat.
Best car harness Kurgo Enhanced Strength Tru-Fit Dog Car HarnessKurgo generally makes well-designed products, but its car harness stands out with five adjustable points. This harness has been crash-tested for dogs up to 75 pounds and has a loop for a dog safety seat belt.
The AP Buyline takeawayThis durable harness can handle dogs 75 pounds or under, providing peace of mind when you take your dog on a road trip.
DetailsThis durable harness can handle dogs 75 pounds or under, providing peace of mind when you take your dog on a road trip.
Best leather dog harness Dean and Tyler Classic Knight Harness
Harnesses made from natural materials like leather can feel better against your dog's skin than synthetic options. Speaking from personal experience, this was my miniature schnauzer's first harness and he got so many compliments on it. He never once tried to remove it and always seemed fairly comfortable in it.
The AP Buyline takeawayThis sleek leather harness will earn you and your dog compliments.
DetailsThis sleek leather harness will earn you and your dog compliments.
Best dog harness for lifting dogs The Help 'Em Up Harness"This isn't your 'Hey, let's put the harness on and go for a brisk walk' harness," says Buzby. "Designed for senior, special needs and rehabilitating dogs, it's the ideal harness for your dog who needs help standing and support when walking." In addition to the benefits for your dog, this harness is designed with handles to
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