Most dogs need regular flea prevention, usually on a set schedule like monthly. The exact timing depends on the product and your vet’s advice.
Typical frequency
For most spot-on treatments and oral flea preventatives, the standard is once every month all year round, or at least throughout the main flea season in your area. Some longer-acting products (like certain tablets or collars) last 3–8 months, so they are given or replaced less often according to the manufacturer’s schedule.
Factors that change how often
How often you treat can vary with your dog’s lifestyle (indoor vs outdoor, contact with other animals), local climate, and whether your dog has had flea allergies or infestations before. Vets often recommend continuous monthly prevention for dogs that go outside regularly or live where fleas are present year-round.
Puppies and safety
Puppies can usually start flea treatment from around 6–8 weeks old, but the minimum age and dose depend on the specific product. Never give flea treatments more often than the label or your vet states, because overdosing can cause side effects; if fleas persist, the vet may change the product rather than increase how often you use it.
