Whether you’re a novice or seasoned pet parent, choosing the best flea collar for your dogs may seem daunting with so many critter preventatives around. You also may be questioning whether the preventative collar that you choose really works? And finally, whether they are safe to use?
What to Look for in a high-quality flea collar?
- waterproof
- durable
- high-quality
- safe
- comfortable and secure fit
The most common ingredients found in flea collars
- midacloprid
- flumethrin
- tetrachlorvinphos
Overview of Top two Flea Choker
Our Choice
Bayer Seresto Flea and Tick Collar
Quality: 10 | Usability: 9 | Safety: 10With so many pet parents opting for this popular dog collar, it’s no wonder that it’s a best-seller! The Bayer Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Large Dogs has a revolutionary formula, that allows for its formulation of flumethrin and imidaclorid to be safely released at a constant rate into the dog’s system. This collar works for 8 months, unlike all other pet collars, and works by killing fleas on contact.
Best Overall
SOBAKEN Flea and Tick Prevention
Quality: 9 | Usability: 10 | Safety: 8Our best overall flea and tick collar for dogs is the Sobaken dog flea and tick collar. Priced right, most especially if you have multiple pets, this natural, hypoallergenic dog flea and tick collar for sensitive dogs works effectively and safely.
Most important features are the adjustable collar & natural waterproof formula for sensitive dogs that makes this dog flea and tick collar the perfect choice for every situation that your dogs may be exposed to like rain, baths, and regular outdoor activities with plenty of outdoor fun.
Comparison Table Of The Best Flea Collar For Dogs 2024
PRODUCT | RATING | PRICE | DURATION OF USE | WATERPROOF | FLEA | TRICKS | LICE | MOSQUITO | LARVAE | ALERGY FREE | SIZE | AGE | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SOBAKEN Collar | Best overall | 9.7 | Average price | 8 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | 25 inch | 3 month |
Bayer Seresto | Our Choice | 9.5 | High price | 8 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | × | ✔ | ✔ | any | 7 weeks old |
Arava Collar | 9.2 | High price | 6 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | 25 inch | 8 week | |
Vet's Best Collar | 8.3 | Low price | 4 | × | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | × | 20 inches | ||
Hartz UltraGuard Collar | 7.7 | Low price | 7 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | × | × | × | × | 26 inches | 12 weeks | |
Adams Flea Collar | 5.7 | Low price | 7 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | × | × | × | × | 26 inches |
SOBAKEN Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs
With the two pack selling at $39.90 via Amazon Prime, the Sobaken natural and hypoallergenic flea and tick collar for dogs is not only inexpensive, but offers natural and continuous flea and tick protection for up to 8-months.
What’s great about this product is that it has no chemicals, and is 100% safe leaving no abrasive markings on the neck area. The Sobaken flea and tick collar is effective for the following:
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Chewing lice
- Flea larvae
- Sarcoptic mange
The all-natural collar is adjustable, and works well for dogs 3 months and older. The SOBAKEN Flea and Tick collar is waterproof, and is safe for allergic pets, meaning it can be used on dogs that tend to have skin sensitivities and allergic reactions to flea and tick collars. With no pyrethrins, no pyrethrums, and no pyrethroids, the Sobaken flea and tick collar is natural enough to be used as a gentle repellent against fleas and ticks.
Key feature
- Works for pups and adult dogs 3 months and older
- Non-greasy
- Suitable for puppies
- Available as a 2-pack at an affordable price
- Effective for up to 8 months
Pros
- Waterproof
- All-natural and hypoallergenic
- Affordable, most especially if you have multiple furry best friends
- Protects fleas and ticks naturally without chemicals and toxins
- Effective for up to 8 months even after swimming, hiking in the rain, or bathing
- Flexible, and easily adjustable collar can be used on small, medium, and large dogs
- Lifetime warranty
Bayer Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs
It is veterinarian recommended, without any musty or chemical odor. This collar is non-greasy to touch, and eliminates critters on contact. What’s so great about this product is the low concentration of imidacloprid and flumethrin throughout the continued release! The collar replenishes itself with flumethrin when depleted from the core of the collar.
The Bayer Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Large Dogs effectively and safely does its job! Both ingredients are safe for dogs, and are extremely effective in getting the job done. It can be used together with collars and leashes, and is a non-brainer to put on. This collar is used for dogs that are 18 pounds and up, and also treats sarcoptic mange and lice. The Seresto collar kills fleas and ticks, as well as larvae, eggs, and lice. Dogs can keep wearing the collar while swimming. It is a highly recommended product both by veterinarians and pet parents, hence the positive reviews.
New studies have recently shown that once consumers begin using new topical treatments and oral control measures, these products will eliminate these critters from the dog’s home environment as well. By using the best safe preventative collar from a reputable brand like Bayer Seresto on your pooch, you know that you’re providing the best in critter preventatives.
Customer Feedback
This has a solid 10,9,10 out of 10 rating. Customers had both positive and negative reviews about this product being effective after trying other collars. Some dogs had side effects from the collars which included nausea, vomiting, scratching, and lack of appetite.
Key feature
- Works for dogs 18 lbs. or more
- Low Concentration
- Non-greasy
- Unsuitable for puppies
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Snug and comfortable fit with collar easy to put on.
- Safe ingredients that are odorless
- Works safely within 48 hours
- Veterinarians recommend
- Can be used on puppies and dogs weighing 18 pounds and up.
- Affordable
Cons
- No sharing beds with dogs in treatment
- Treatments should be spaced
- May result in nausea, vomiting, scratching
- May develop allergies such as severe itching
- May develop neurological reactions with vomiting and diarrhea
Arava Flea & Tick Prevention Collar – for Dogs & Puppies
The Arava flea and tick prevention collar is another natural flea and tick preventative with over 1,110 positive reviews. Made with 100% natural and active herbal ingredients, the Arava collar works for all sized dogs and breeds, and can be used on puppies too.
What’s great about this all-natural flea and tick preventative is that it is formulated by a team of dermatologists and veterinarians to ensure safety and efficacy. Non-toxic to humans and household pets, the Arava flea and tick collar is designed for safe and efficient time -release via patented micro-injection technology. According to the website, the same natural ingredients used in this product are also beneficial for relaxation, and to prevent diseases.
Key feature
- Only contains 100% natural ingredients with 11 herbal and essential oils
- pH balanced
- Micro-injection technology
- Effective for as long as 6 months
- Active ingredients are released in low concentrations over a period of time
Pros
- 100% natural
- Can be used on dogs of all ages
- Repels over nearly 500 species of insects
- Natural scent
- Portion of proceeds donated to support animal welfare
- No added flumethrin
- No added imadacloprid
- 11 natural ingredients
- Adjustable size
Cons
- Scent may be overpowering
Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Repellent Collar for Dogs
Natural repellant flea and tick collars by Vet’s Best features a plant-based formula that is veterinarian approved to ensure 100% pet safety and product efficacy. This flea collar works for up to 4 months, and is also waterproof, allowing for bath time and plenty of swimming and outdoor fun in rain or shine.
Vet’s Best Flea and Tick collar contains cedarwood and peppermint which are extracted via steam distillation. What we like most about this product is that it’s free of phthalates and PVC. The flea and tick collar is one size and is easily adjustable to fit dog breeds with neck sizes up to 20 inches. It offers full body protection from head to tail, and there is no powder coating on the collar which can be messy.
Key feature
- Natural ingredients from a plant-based formula
- Works efficiently to repel fleas and ticks
- Safe with no harsh chemicals
- One-size fits all flea and tick collar
- Priced well
- No phthalates and PVC
- Effective plant-based care for pets
Pros
- No long-term side effects
- Plant–based
- Reputable US pet brand that’s been around for over 30 years
- Good for multi-pet households
- Safe around children and other pets
- Great peppermint scent that’s mild
- Affordably priced
- Waterproof
- Adjustable size
Hartz UltraGuard Collar
Hartz UltraGuard flea and tick collar for dogs is another water-resistant and price effective flea and tick collar for pets. It’s offered in a fresh scent, and has an adjustable collar for easy use. This collar prevents flee eggs hatching, and kills fleas and ticks. With 7-months of protection, the Hartz UltraGuard Plus also contains tetrachlorvinphos, and dogs may develop sensitivities to this collar.
Note: Tetrachlorvinphos: Pet parents need to read the ingredients on all flea and tick products. Overexposure to this chemical may be dangerous, and may cause serious side effects like confusion, nausea, and even death.
Customer Feedback
It’s important to read up on all flea and tick collar ingredients before using them. Consult with your veterinarian for the best advice when it comes down to choosing the best flea and tick products for your pets. This collar may have serious side effects.
Key feature
- Cost effective
- Kills fleas and ticks
- Kills fleas and ticks
Pros
- Cheap
- Long-lasting
- Can be used on pups 12 weeks and older
Cons
- Collar needs to be handled carefully because of its chemical ingredients
- Children and adults should not touch this collar
- Contains toxic chemicals that may cause dangerous or deadly side effects, and even cancer
Adams Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs
The Adams Flea and tick collar for dogs helps to eradicate flea eggs, larvae, fleas and ticks from your pets. As a flea collar, it’s an easy method to use in combatting these nasty critters. Effective for outdoor use since it’s waterproof, the Adams flea and tick collar is effective for up to 7 months.
Insecticidal collars like the Adams Flea and Tick collar are made from a plastic polymer resin that has an active ingredient to eliminate fleas and ticks. This collar is effective in combatting fleas and ticks in pets.
It’s fast acting, and continues to be effective, even when wet. There is one adjustable size that fits all dog breeds, and makes it easy to use on most dog breeds. The Adams Flea and tick collar continuously works by repelling fleas and ticks on your dogs. It can be used on pups from 6 weeks of age, and kills ticks and fleas immediately upon contact.
Customer Feedback
This flea collar works on severe flea and tick infestations. Dogs can go swimming or exercise in the rain while wearing this collar. The ingredients used in this collar are:
- Tetrachlorvinphos (14.55%)
- (S) -Methoprene (1.22%)
That said, Tetrachlorvinphos can cause allergic reactions in some dogs and children.
Note: Tetrachlorvinphos: Pet parents need to read the ingredients on all flea and tick products. Overexposure to this chemical may be dangerous and may cause serious side effects like confusion, nausea, and even death. It’s important to read up on all flea and tick collar ingredients before using them. Consult with your veterinarian for the best advice when it comes down to choosing the best flea and tick products for your pets.
Key feature
- One of the cheapest flea and tick collars on the market
- Contains Tetrachlorvinphos (14.55%) and Methoprene (1.22%).
Pros
- Affordably priced
- Kills fleas and ticks immediately
- Combats fleas during all life stages
Cons
- The flea collar could crust with white residue
- May contribute to neck sores or other skin sensitivities
- Dogs may develop allergies to this collar
- Children should not play with this collar
- Customers said that the collar had an unpleasant odor
Let First Take a Look at How Dog Flea Collars Work?
What’s in Your Flea Collar?
Insecticidal collars are made from plastic polymer resins. These contain an active ingredient that is released, and that eliminates fleas and ticks. Collars used as preventatives function by releasing the active ingredient as a vapor, a dust, or a liquid, depending on which you choose. This will depend on the chemical. The insecticide is transmitted via the collar to the dog, with how fast transmission occurs depending on how active your pooch is.
Dogs that enjoy the outdoors a lot, and swimming do well with specific collars that are waterproof and durable. Look for a good custom fit, and high-quality collar for active dog breeds! These collars work by destroying numerous flea life stages, and can prevent your pooch from getting very ill.
Find out whether your flea collar is:
- Effective for a few months
- Kills mosquitos
- Affordable (though with this product only purchase the best, most reputable brands)
- Fast acting
- Durable enough for the outdoors
- Can be used on puppies and at what age
Irritating fleas and ticks may result in an annoying skin irritations in pups, adult dogs, and cats. They also can cause a nasty infestation in your home! This can happen to every pet parent in any home if flea prevention is not regularly used. Start off by visiting your veterinarian before the summer months to get the best flea and tick preventative for your furry best friend. That said, you’ll know that you’re opting for the safest product that is recommended by your veterinarian who knows your dog’s health and lifestage.
Fleas are small wingless insects that feed on blood. They also transmit diseases in dogs, pups and cats, and may cause serious allergies or anemia. They inject their saliva into a pet. That said, you’ll need to visit your veterinarian to get your pooch looked at and treated for an infestation or ticks. These can be very bothersome, and take a while to treat!
With so many pets that are allergic to flea saliva, it’s necessary to find the best preventative out there before the summer months, when these critters prevail. They cause endless itching and pain. If your dog is chewing and scratching his coat, and in pain, as well restless, and nibbling on his paws, you’ve most likely got a bad problem, which could result in a severe skin infection.
Most cases of flea dermatitis will occur during late summer. Dogs that are younger than a year do not get flea allergy dermatitis. Veterinarians will make a diagnosis by examining your puppy or dog first. That said, if you want to see if your dog or puppy is infected, you’ll need to part Fido’s coat halfway and run a flea comb through his coat. This will show all the bits of flea droppings, and you’ll also notice moving critters. The red and black, cylindrical droppings are easy-to-see. If you don’t want to do this, visit your veterinarian immediately so that your pooch can be effectively treated.
Your dog’s bedding needs to be checked as well. Here you will also most likely have flea eggs, larvae, and flea excrement. Fleas are linked to disease that is responsible for the skin itch. Unhealthy coat conditions may also be caused by flea dermatitis.
Flea and tick collars differ in the time that they take to work. That said, it’s always necessary to check the instructions and website for all details. With some dog collars working faster than others, check out the Amazon reviews for detailed information.
Flea control measures have changed a lot over the past few years. That said, today with all the new insecticides and insect growth regulators it’s much safer and easier to control. Flea and tick collars offer pet parents peace of mind, and dogs and puppies residual monthly control. They also need fewer applications.
Veterinarians sell preventatives, as well as online stores, and pet stores. These will include oral and injected medications, applied anti-flea and tick liquids (topical), and flea sprays.
Flea control should be discussed with your veterinarian, who will help you choose the safest and most effective methods of flea control. Keep in mind that this has to be geared to your dog’s lifestyle, age and weight. Safety with critter preventatives is the most important aspect to consider. Pet parents should read all the reviews, and consult with their veterinarian for the best product out!
Are Flea Collars Safe for Dogs?
Insecticidal collars are plastic polymer resins that contain an active ingredient that controls fleas and ticks. Collars for flea control work by releasing the active ingredient as a vapor, a dust, or a liquid. This will depend on the chemical. The insecticide will move from collar to dog, depending on how active the dog is.
Effective dog flea collars should be waterproof, durable, high-quality, safe and fit snugly. Lots of flea collars will treat flea infestations in your home by destroying fleas and their eggs by releasing chemicals that are released into your dog’s skin.
Read the package to make sure that the word “kill” is used, so that it’s not just a preventative. The most common ingredients in flea collars are:
- Midacloprid
- Flumethrin
- Tetrachlorvinphos
Flea collars may be toxic to pets since they contain chemicals as in amitraz, organophosphates, or pyrethrins. Some flea collars may carry more risks, and may have side effects like nausea and lethargy. There are other options to the traditional flea collars, like “natural” flea collars. That said, it’s advisable that pet parents read the “natural” ingredients list.
The least toxic chemicals are the pyrethins or pyrethroids. These work fast and don’t stay for long in the environment. With stronger chemicals that are longer- lasting, chemicals are more toxic and may include the following:
- Cholinesterase inhibitors which fall under names like carbaryl, diazinon, Dursban, malathion, fenthion, and sevin.
- Chemicals that destroy adult fleas, and flea growth (IGR) are called methoprene or pyriproxyfen. These work by stopping flea eggs from hatching. They also prevent flea larvae from getting to adulthood.
Natural Flea and Tick Collars
No more harsh chemicals! With natural flea collars, you’re opting for safe and toxin-free. Natural is a term that is not regulated in the pet industry. So ask yourselves what makes for a natural product before purchasing a “natural” flea collar.
As a pet parent, it may be in your dog’s interest to consider “natural” flea collars when counteracting chemical overload in your pooch. With pharmaceutical companies developing effective collars for pets that are easy-to-use, and keep our pets free of external parasites, it may seem easiest to just purchase any collar that is affordable. That said, there is a chemical overload that comes with high veterinary bills.
Many flea preventatives are tested on a few hundred animals only before being released on the market, and up for sale. This means that your kitty or pooch may be a “testing lab” for new preventatives that are starting to sell.
Recalls don’t occur much with new products until a few thousand pets die. You will also need to check the ingredients on a tick and flea collar for cancer causing agents. Additionally, it may be best to purchase only from reputable and long-standing pet brands that are veterinarian approved!
Studies show that the development of transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) is particularly linked to exposure to insecticides, including some of the traditional flea and tick remedies. Toxic chemicals are often used in these collars. But they can also harm your dog!
According to a recent study by the Natural Resources Defense Council ((NRDC), Americans spend close to $1 billion each year on products designed to kill critters on household pets, especially dogs and cats!
Some of these products may be safe, yet others have the potential to leave harmful chemical residues on our furry best friends.
“These chemicals are highly hazardous to animals and humans, can damage the brain and nervous system, and can cause cancer.” NRDC
A first- of- its-kind study by NRDC shows that high levels of pesticide residue can remain on a dog’s fur for weeks after a flea collar is put on an animal.
In spite of the known adverse effects of pesticides, they are continuously being used in dog shampoos, and other dog products.
What are pyrethroids?
Pyrethroids are a class of synthetic pesticides used widely in home insect-control products, including flea bombs, roach sprays, ant bait, flea-and-tick pet shampoos, and lice shampoos.
The chemicals are also sprayed on crops. Although they are modeled after naturally occurring insecticides (pyrethrins) found in chrysanthemum flowers, pyrethroids are generally longer-lasting in the environment and are more toxic than their botanical cousins.
Examples of pyrethroid pesticides include: cypermethrin, permethrin, deltamethrin, bifenthrin, and cyfluthrin.
Why are pyrethroids in flea-and tick collars?
Pyrethroids are toxic to humans and dogs.
The best approach to controlling fleas is to begin with a natural and possibly an organic product choice. This will contain the least toxic ingredients, and will be healthier for your pooch.
Bathing your pet regularly plays an important role in your dog’s life. It gets rids of:
- Plant debris
- Dirt build up
- Dust
- Sometimes toxic and unhealthful ingredients like flakes of paint, lead, debris from cars or buildings
- Lint from synthetic fibers
- Accumulated toxins
- Germs
- Parasites
Each time you shampoo your dog with unsafe control methods, you’re exposing him to toxicity.
Look Out for the Following Side Effects When Using Pyrethrins and Pyreththroids
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe tremors
- Disorientation
- Low body temperature
- High-fever if severely affected
- Excitability
- Depression
- Death if severe toxicity
Signs of d-Limonene Toxicity
- Drooling
- Tremors
- Lack of coordination
- Low body temperature
- Vomiting
Collars That Contain Organophosphates
Side Effects
Collars that contain organophosphate insecticides like dichlorvos may result in skin reactions in pets. Malathion, also found in collars is a safe organophosphate. If your dog shows signs of insecticide poisoning, you will need to carefully bathe him with detergent and water. An immediate consult with your veterinarian will be necessary. Your vet may perform blood work.
Vomiting may be induced, and mineral oil given orally to decrease the absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. That said, keep in mind that the more effective a flea collar is, the stronger it is, thus the more toxic to the pet. Opt for veterinarian sold insecticides and insect growth regulators that provide residual control, and prevent reproduction.
What to do
- Remove all toxic products from your household.
- Clear out any products that may be harmful to your dog.
- Use a gentle shampoo that will not strip all the oils from his coat.
What you’ll realize is that you no longer need to expose your dog to chemically treated shampoos. These are all powerful carcinogens. Think about all the toxic insecticides, fungicides, pesticides and herbicides that your dog is exposed to every day in your home.
Newer studies demonstrate that some chemicals may have a low-cancer causing potential when tested alone, but can be very powerful carcinogens when combined with others. That said, it’s best to research the ingredients in your dog’s collar, and to also consult with your veterinarian prior to purchasing a flea and tick collar for your pooch.
There are numerous effective and non-toxic flea and tick control products that there’s no reason not to use them! No pet should have to suffer the continuous pain and skin irritations that come from flea and tick bites.
As usual, always consult with your veterinarian for the best preventative products to use on your dog, and in your home if you have an infestation. Depending on where you live, and your how active your pooch is, all factors should be taken into consideration when determining which collar is best.
Some dogs will need ongoing flea preventatives depending on where they live. Veterinarians will maintain a preventative schedule for pet parents for regular testing of parasites and treatment that is appropriate for each dog.
I have always used setesto on all ,7 dogs but this last ones I bought are not working as all the dogs have grad. This is after baths and spraying yard before new collars placed on.Now looking for a more natural flea collar that works
Hi Carol,
Thanks for reaching out. Natural flea collars have no long-term side effects. Many are plant-based and made by reputable brands. Not only are genuine flea collars suitable for multi-pet households, but they’re also very safe around small children and puppies and kittens. We highly recommend purchasing a natural flea collar for your dogs since they work efficiently without harsh chemicals. There are no phthalates or PVC, and they’re also very affordable. Would you please take a look at our flea and tick collar reviews? There are many great choices like Vet’s Best Flea and Tick collars. I hope this helps.