Effectiveness of Canine Frontline on Fleas

Frontline is a topical insecticide that is designed to rid Fido of any fleas on his coat. The main ingredient in Frontline is fipronil, a medication that kills adult fleas. Frontline Plus combines fipronil with s-methoprene, which helps to prevent the development of flea eggs and larvae, effectively eliminating them as well.

A study published in the May 2012 issue of "Parasite" noted that Frontline Plus was at least 99.1 percent effective against fleas in dogs treated with the topical medication. Another study, published in the November 2011 issue of the "International Journal of Applied Research in Veterinary Medicine" found that Fronline Plus killed all fleas on dogs treated with it at 100 percent for at least 28 days. Frontline Plus kills 100 percent of adult fleas within 12 hours of topical application, which means that Frontline should be equally as effective. Frontline only contains fipronil, which is the ingredient that kills the adult fleas.

Frontline products all contain fipronil and kill adult fleas. Some products come in the form of a topical spray, while others are a liquid which you rub between your pup's shoulder blades monthly. Those containing fipronil and s-methoprene are more effective in the long-term because they eliminate the eggs and larvae as well as adult fleas. Note that all Frontline products are only safe for pooches over eight weeks of age. Always consult with your vet to determine which flea-control products are appropriate for your pooch.