Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition that affects dogs. It is caused by a parasitic worm that is transmitted through mosquito bites. Once infected, the worms can grow up to a foot long and live in the dog’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels. Fortunately, heartworm disease is preventable with the use of heartworm medicine.
Heartworm medicine for dogs comes in different forms such as chewables, tablets, and topical solutions. The most common types of heartworm medicine contain a combination of ingredients that not only prevent heartworm disease but also treat and control other parasites such as fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms.
When choosing the best heartworm medicine for your dog, it is important to consider factors such as the dog’s age, weight, and health condition. It is also essential to follow the dosage instructions carefully and ensure that the medicine is administered on a regular basis.
We spent countless hours researching and testing different types of heartworm medicine to identify the ones that provide the best protection and treatment for dogs. In the next section, we will discuss our top picks and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Best Heartworm Medicine for Dogs
As responsible pet owners, we know that heartworm prevention is crucial in keeping our furry friends healthy. Heartworm disease can be fatal if left untreated, and prevention is much easier and less expensive than treatment. With so many heartworm medications available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your dog. That’s why we’ve researched and tested the best heartworm medicines for dogs and compiled a list of our top picks. Read on to find the best heartworm medicine for your dog’s needs.
1. Safe-Guard Canine Dewormer
If you’re looking for a quick and easy solution to deworm your dog, Safe-Guard Canine Dewormer is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Safe-Guard treats against Tapeworms, Roundworms, Hookworms, and Whipworms.
- Easy to feed granules that mix into food.
- Safe for young puppies over the age of 6 weeks, pregnant dogs, and heartworm infected dogs.
Cons
- Must be administered for 3 consecutive days and is effective for 6 months.
- Each package contains three 2-gram pouches, which may not be enough for larger dogs.
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the granules and refuse to eat them.
We recently used Safe-Guard Canine Dewormer on our dog and were impressed with how easy it was to use. The granules mixed easily into his food and he didn’t seem to notice any difference in taste or texture.
One of the biggest pros of this product is that it treats against multiple types of worms, including Tapeworms, Roundworms, Hookworms, and Whipworms. This makes it a great all-in-one solution for deworming your dog.
Another benefit of Safe-Guard Canine Dewormer is that it’s safe for young puppies over the age of 6 weeks, pregnant dogs, and heartworm infected dogs. This means you don’t have to worry about harming your dog while trying to treat them.
However, there are a few downsides to consider. First, the product must be administered for 3 consecutive days and is effective for 6 months. This can be a bit of a hassle if you’re looking for a one-time solution.
Additionally, each package only contains three 2-gram pouches, which may not be enough for larger dogs. You may need to purchase multiple packages to fully treat your dog.
Finally, some dogs may not like the taste of the granules and refuse to eat them. This can make it difficult to administer the medication and may require you to find alternative methods.
Overall, we would recommend Safe-Guard Canine Dewormer to anyone looking for a quick and easy solution to deworming their dog. It’s safe, effective, and treats multiple types of worms.
2. 8in1 Safe-Guard Canine Dewormer for Small Dogs, 3 Day Treatment
We highly recommend the 8in1 Safe-Guard Canine Dewormer for Small Dogs, 3 Day Treatment. It is an effective and safe solution for treating and controlling tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms in dogs.
Pros
- The granules are easy to mix into food, making it hassle-free to administer to your dog.
- Safe for young puppies over the age of 6 weeks, pregnant dogs, and heartworm infected dogs.
- Must be administered for 3 consecutive days and is effective for 6 months.
Cons
- This product only kills Taenia species of tapeworms, so it may not be effective against all types of tapeworms.
- It may not work against all parasites, so it is best to consult with your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.
- The daily dose for Safe-Guard 4 Canine is 50 mg/kg (22.7 mg/lb) of body weight, so you need to weigh your dog to ensure the right dosage.
We have used this product on our dogs and found it to be very effective in treating and controlling parasitism. The granules are easy to mix into food, and our dogs didn’t even notice it was there. We also appreciate that it is safe for young puppies over the age of 6 weeks, pregnant dogs, and heartworm infected dogs.
However, it is important to note that this product only kills Taenia species of tapeworms, so it may not be effective against all types of tapeworms. It is also best to consult with your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment, as it may not work against all parasites.
Overall, we highly recommend the 8in1 Safe-Guard Canine Dewormer for Small Dogs, 3 Day Treatment for its effectiveness and ease of use.
3. Durvet Triple Wormer Tablets
We highly recommend Durvet Triple Wormer Tablets for puppies and small dogs. This non-prescription medication is convenient and easy to use, and it effectively controls seven strains of tape, hook, and roundworms.
Pros
- The 12-pack is convenient and provides a long-lasting supply.
- The chewable tablets are easy to administer to dogs.
- The medication controls a variety of worms to keep your dog healthy.
Cons
- Some dogs may experience side effects such as vomiting or diarrhea.
- The medication may not be effective for all types of worms.
- It is important to follow dosage instructions carefully to avoid overdosing.
Durvet Triple Wormer Tablets have been a lifesaver for our small dog. The chewable tablets are easy to give, and our dog seems to like the taste. We appreciate that the medication controls multiple types of worms to keep our dog healthy.
We have not experienced any negative side effects from using this medication, but we know that some dogs may be sensitive to the ingredients. It is important to watch your dog closely after administering the medication to ensure that they do not have an adverse reaction.
Overall, we highly recommend Durvet Triple Wormer Tablets for any dog owner looking for an effective and convenient way to control worms in their pet.
4. PetArmor 7 Way De-Wormer for Dogs
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable dewormer for your dogs, PetArmor 7 Way De-Wormer is definitely worth considering. It’s easy to administer and provides vet-quality protection without the expense of a vet visit.
Pros
- Treats and controls 7 species of worms
- Safe for puppies 12 weeks or older, and small dogs 6.0 to 25 lbs
- Comes in chewable tablets, making it easy and convenient to give to your dog
Cons
- May cause mild side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the tablets
- Not effective against all types of worms
We recently tried PetArmor 7 Way De-Wormer on our small dog, and we were pleased with the results. The tablets are easy to break in half, making it simple to give the correct dosage for our dog’s weight. We gave it to our dog with her food, and she didn’t seem to mind the taste.
After a few days, we noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s overall health and energy level. She seemed to be more active and playful, and her coat looked shinier and healthier.
One thing to keep in mind is that PetArmor 7 Way De-Wormer may cause mild side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. However, these side effects are usually temporary and go away on their own.
Overall, we would recommend PetArmor 7 Way De-Wormer for anyone looking for an effective and affordable dewormer for their dogs. It’s easy to use, safe, and provides great results.
5. SENTRY HC WORM X PLUS 7 Way De-Wormer
If you’re looking for a reliable and convenient way to deworm your dog, SENTRY HC WORM X PLUS 7 Way De-Wormer is a great option.
Pros
- This dog dewormer treats and controls two types of tapeworms, two types of roundworms, and three types of hookworms.
- These tasty chewable SENTRY DeWormer tablets can be given to your dog with or without food.
- One chewable dog wormer tablet helps protect your pet for up to 30 days.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the tablets.
- It may not be effective against all types of worms.
- It may cause some mild side effects such as vomiting or diarrhea.
We recently tried SENTRY HC WORM X PLUS 7 Way De-Wormer for our medium-sized dog who was experiencing some mild symptoms of a worm infestation. We were pleased to find that the tablets were easy to administer, and our dog didn’t seem to mind the taste. Within a few days, we noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s symptoms, and we were happy to know that the medication would continue to protect him for up to 30 days.
One of the best things about SENTRY HC WORM X PLUS 7 Way De-Wormer is that it treats and controls a wide range of worms, making it a versatile option for pet owners. The tablets are also easy to give to your dog, and they can be administered with or without food. We appreciated the convenience of this product, and we would definitely recommend it to other pet owners who are looking for a reliable and effective way to deworm their dogs.
While SENTRY HC WORM X PLUS 7 Way De-Wormer worked well for our dog, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste of the tablets. Additionally, the medication may not be effective against all types of worms, so it’s important to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns. Finally, we did notice some mild side effects such as vomiting or diarrhea, but these were generally short-lived and didn’t seem to cause any lasting harm to our dog.
Overall, we were very satisfied with SENTRY HC WORM X PLUS 7 Way De-Wormer and would definitely recommend it to other pet owners. It’s a convenient and effective way to protect your dog from a wide range of worms, and it’s available without a prescription, making it easy to purchase and use.
6. K9 Advantix II XL Dog Vet-Recommended Flea, Tick & Mosquito Treatment & Prevention
Protect your furry friend from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, and lice with K9 Advantix II XL Dog Vet-Recommended Flea, Tick & Mosquito Treatment & Prevention.
Pros
- Kills fleas within 12 hours of application
- Fragrance-free and waterproof after 24 hours
- Easy-to-apply topical treatment
Cons
- May cause skin irritation in some dogs
- Some customers reported that it did not work effectively for their pets
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain medical conditions
We recently used K9 Advantix II XL Dog Vet-Recommended Flea, Tick & Mosquito Treatment & Prevention on our furry friend and were impressed with its effectiveness. The topical treatment was easy to apply and started killing fleas within 12 hours of initial application. We appreciated that it was fragrance-free and waterproof, making it a convenient option for our active dog.
However, we did notice some skin irritation on our dog after the first application, so we recommend monitoring your pet closely for any adverse reactions. Additionally, some customers reported that it did not work effectively for their pets, so it may not be the best option for every dog. We also suggest consulting with your veterinarian before using this product, especially if your dog has any medical conditions.
Overall, we recommend K9 Advantix II XL Dog Vet-Recommended Flea, Tick & Mosquito Treatment & Prevention for its effectiveness and convenience. It’s available over the counter and comes in 2-dose, 4-dose, and 6-dose packs so you can stock up and never miss a monthly treatment.
7. K9 Advantix II Large Dog
We highly recommend K9 Advantix II Large Dog for pet owners looking for a vet-recommended formula that can protect their dogs from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, and lice.
Pros
- Kills fleas within 12 hours of application
- Easy-to-apply topical treatment is fragrance-free and waterproof after 24 hours
- Vet-recommended formula kills & repels on contact so fleas don’t have to bite your dog to die
Cons
- May cause skin irritation in some dogs
- May not be effective for all pets
- Some dogs may not like the application process
We have used K9 Advantix II Large Dog on our own furry friend and have been impressed with its fast-acting formula. Within 12 hours of application, fleas were eliminated, and our dog was protected from future infestations.
The easy-to-apply topical treatment is also fragrance-free and waterproof after 24 hours, making it a convenient option for pet owners who want to protect their dogs without having to worry about reapplication after baths or swimming.
However, we have noticed that some dogs may experience skin irritation after using this product, so it is important to monitor your pet closely after application. Additionally, while K9 Advantix II Large Dog is effective for most pets, it may not work for all dogs.
Overall, we believe that K9 Advantix II Large Dog is a reliable and effective option for pet owners looking for a way to protect their furry friends from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, and lice.
8. Excel 8in1 Safe-Guard Canine Dewormer for Large Dogs, 3 Day Treatment, Red, 40 lbs/pouch (J7164-1)
If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to treat and control worms in your dog, then the Excel 8in1 Safe-Guard Canine Dewormer might be just what you need.
Pros
- Safe Guard treats against Tapeworms, Roundworms, Hookworms, and Whipworms
- Easy to feed granules that mix into food
- Safe for young puppies over the age of 6 weeks, pregnant dogs, and heartworm infected dogs
Cons
- Must be administered for 3 consecutive days and is effective for 6 months
- Each package contains three 4-gram pouches, each pouch treats 40 pounds
- Packaging may vary
We’ve used this dewormer on our own dogs and have found it to be effective and easy to use. The granules mix easily into food and our dogs didn’t seem to mind the taste.
One of the biggest pros of this product is that it treats against Tapeworms, Roundworms, Hookworms, and Whipworms. This means that you can use it as a preventative measure or to treat an existing infestation.
Another pro is that it’s safe for young puppies over the age of 6 weeks, pregnant dogs, and heartworm infected dogs. This makes it a great option for pet owners who want to keep their dogs healthy without risking any harm.
However, one of the cons of this product is that it must be administered for 3 consecutive days and is effective for 6 months. This means that you need to make sure you have enough on hand to treat your dog for the full course.
Additionally, each package contains three 4-gram pouches, each pouch treats 40 pounds. This means that if you have a larger dog, you may need to purchase multiple packages.
Overall, we would recommend the Excel 8in1 Safe-Guard Canine Dewormer for pet owners who want a safe and effective way to treat and control worms in their dogs.
9. PetArmor Plus Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs
If you’re looking for an affordable and effective flea and tick prevention solution for your furry friend, PetArmor Plus Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs is a great option.
Pros
- Provides waterproof flea and tick protection for up to 30 days.
- Contains the same active ingredients as FRONTLINE Plus for Dogs.
- Kills fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, ticks, and chewing lice.
Cons
- May not work for all dogs.
- Some users reported side effects such as hair loss and skin irritation.
- May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin.
We recently tried PetArmor Plus Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs on our small dog and were impressed with the results. The formula is easy to apply and provides long-lasting protection against fleas and ticks. We noticed a significant decrease in the number of fleas on our dog within 24 hours of application.
One of the biggest advantages of PetArmor Plus is that it contains the same active ingredients as FRONTLINE Plus for Dogs, but at a more affordable price. We appreciate that we can provide our dog with vet-quality protection without breaking the bank.
While PetArmor Plus worked well for our dog, we understand that it may not work for all dogs. Some users reported that their dogs experienced side effects such as hair loss and skin irritation. Additionally, it may not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin.
Overall, we highly recommend PetArmor Plus Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs to anyone looking for an effective and affordable flea and tick prevention solution for their furry friend.
10. FRONTLINE Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Large Dogs
We highly recommend FRONTLINE Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Large Dogs if you’re looking for an effective solution to protect your furry friend against fleas and ticks.
Pros
- Provides long-lasting protection against fleas and ticks
- Easy to apply with one monthly dose
- Can be used on puppies as young as eight weeks old
Cons
- May have a strong smell for a few minutes after application
- Can be difficult to apply on dogs with thick hair
- May not work for all dogs
FRONTLINE Plus is specially formulated to kill existing adult fleas, flea eggs, and flea larvae to guard against further infestations for flea control. It is also proven to kill ticks that can transmit Lyme disease. The flea and tick control treatment covers your dog’s entire body and deposits in the sebaceous glands, which act as a reservoir, continuously replenishing the treatment onto your pet. It works even if your dog gets wet, providing protection for a full 30 days.
We found that FRONTLINE Plus is easy to apply, and it can be used on puppies as young as eight weeks old, weighing 5 pounds or more. However, it may have a strong smell for a few minutes after application, and it can be difficult to apply on dogs with thick hair. Additionally, it may not work for all dogs, so it’s important to monitor your pet for any signs of infestation.
Overall, we believe that FRONTLINE Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Large Dogs is a reliable and effective solution to keep your furry friend protected against fleas and ticks.
11. TevraPet Activate II Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable flea and tick prevention solution for your furry friend, we highly recommend TevraPet Activate II.
Pros
- TevraPet Activate II is a great alternative to K9 Advantix II with the same fast-acting active ingredients.
- It actively protects your dog by repelling and killing fleas and ticks on contact, preventing flea borne illnesses.
- It stops infestations fast by breaking the flea life cycle, killing flea eggs and larvae within 12 hours of application.
Cons
- The container/applicator is not as user-friendly as other products on the market.
- Some users have reported that the product does not work effectively on their dogs.
- It may cause skin irritation in some dogs.
We have used TevraPet Activate II on our own dogs and have been very satisfied with the results. The product is easy to apply and provides continuous protection for 30 days per application. We appreciate that it is made in the USA and comes with a satisfaction guarantee.
While the container and applicator could be improved, we have found that the product itself is highly effective at preventing flea and tick infestations. We have not noticed any adverse reactions in our dogs, but it’s important to monitor your pet for any signs of skin irritation.
Overall, we believe that TevraPet Activate II is a great value for the price and would recommend it to any dog owner looking for a reliable flea and tick prevention solution.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best heartworm medicine for your dog, there are a few things to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your decision:
Active Ingredients
The first thing to look at is the active ingredients in the heartworm medicine. Make sure that the medication contains a well-known and effective ingredient such as ivermectin, milbemycin oxime, or moxidectin. These ingredients have been proven to be effective in preventing heartworm disease in dogs.
Dosage
The dosage of the medication is also important. Make sure that you choose a product that is appropriate for your dog’s weight and age. Giving your dog the wrong dosage could be ineffective or even harmful.
Administration
Consider how the medication is administered. Some heartworm medicines are given orally, while others are applied topically. Choose a method that is easy for you to administer and that your dog is comfortable with.
Frequency
The frequency of administration is also important. Some heartworm medicines need to be given monthly, while others only need to be given every six months. Choose a product that fits your lifestyle and schedule.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the medication. While it’s important to choose a product that is effective, you don’t want to break the bank. Compare prices of different products and choose one that fits your budget.
In summary, when choosing the best heartworm medicine for your dog, look at the active ingredients, dosage, administration, frequency, and price. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and keep your dog protected from heartworm disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the #1 vet recommended heartworm prevention?
The #1 vet recommended heartworm prevention is Heartgard Plus. It is a chewable tablet that is given once a month to prevent heartworm disease in dogs.
What is the best heartworm prevention for dogs with the least side effects?
The best heartworm prevention for dogs with the least side effects is Interceptor Plus. It not only prevents heartworm disease, but also controls and treats roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, and tapeworm infections.
What are the safest heartworm medications for dogs?
The safest heartworm medications for dogs are those that are prescribed by a veterinarian and used according to their instructions. Heartworm medications like Heartgard Plus, Interceptor Plus, and Revolution are generally considered safe when used properly.
What is the best flea, tick, and heartworm medication for dogs?
The best flea, tick, and heartworm medication for dogs is Trifexis. It is a chewable tablet that prevents heartworm disease and kills fleas, ticks, and certain types of intestinal parasites.
What is the difference between Heartgard and Heartgard Plus for dogs?
The difference between Heartgard and Heartgard Plus for dogs is that Heartgard Plus also contains medication to control and treat roundworm and hookworm infections, in addition to preventing heartworm disease.
What is the 3 in 1 flea/tick and heartworm medication for dogs?
The 3 in 1 flea/tick and heartworm medication for dogs is Revolution Plus. It is a topical solution that prevents heartworm disease and kills fleas, ticks, and certain types of ear mites, as well as treating and controlling roundworm and hookworm infections.
