10 Best Anti-Flea and Tick for Dogs in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Veterinarian

Spot-on treatments remain one of the most convenient choices for many dog owners. Once applied onto the skin, the medication spreads through the hair, skin, and oil glands, offering continuous protection as it is gradually released over time. These products have the advantage of being less stressful to apply and are usually more budget-friendly compared to chewable tablets.

Owners must apply the solution on an area the dog cannot lick, typically the back of the neck, to avoid accidental ingestion, which may cause drooling or irritation. Dr. Patricia Wilwayco emphasizes checking the minimum age and weight requirements, commonly at least 8 weeks old and 5 lbs.

Chewable flea and tick tablets work from the inside out. Once ingested, the active ingredients, such as afoxolaner or fluralaner, circulate inside the body, killing ticks and fleas as soon as they bite. Because these formulations are newer, they remain highly effective, especially in cases where fleas or ticks may have developed resistance to older topical medications.

Chewables are also convenient for owners with active or frequently bathed dogs, as bathing schedules do not interfere with their efficacy. Many chewables also contain deworming and heartworm-preventive ingredients, making them a practical all-in-one option.

Flea and tick collars provide long-term protection by slowly releasing their active ingredients through the skin and coat. The coverage can last 7 to 8 months, making them especially useful for busy pet owners or dogs living in areas with heavy parasite presence.

Collars are also helpful for dogs that are aggressive or difficult to medicate with tablets. 

However, pet parents should watch for mild, temporary skin irritation or scratching at the collar. Be mindful too that chewing on the collar may cause vomiting or diarrhea if medication is ingested.

These products work on contact and are helpful when you need immediate or situational protection. For example, sprays and powders can be applied before taking your dog on a walk through grassy or wooded areas. They can also assist pets who are sensitive to certain medications in spot-on or chewable form.

However, shampoos, sprays, and powders generally offer short-term protection and may rely on either natural repellents or chemical insecticides. Because of this, they are best used together with a long-term preventive, especially during seasons or in areas with high flea and tick activity.

Fipronil, imidacloprid, and spinosad are common flea-targeting actives. They work by interfering with the nervous function of the parasite, making them reliable for breaking infestations. These ingredients are generally safe for all breeds, though any dog may develop individual allergic reactions.

When comparing products, check which ingredient your pet tolerates best based on past use or vet guidance.

Tick-specific formulations often rely on either permethrin, commonly used in spot-ons, or fluralaner, commonly used in chewables. Both cause paralysis and death in ticks, but each has its advantages. Permethrin-based products are widely available and have been used for decades, while fluralaner is part of newer-generation formulations known for long-lasting, high-level protection.

Dr. Patricia Wilwayco notes that some tick species have developed resistance to older medications like fipronil and permethrin, making newer options, though more expensive, a more effective choice for severe infestations.