Fleas and ticks can be a big problem for small dogs. They can cause itching, skin trouble, and a lot of stress. That is why a simple flea and tick treatment can be useful.
FRONTLINE Plus Flea & Tick Spot Treatment for Small Breed Dogs 5-22 lbs. (Orange), 3 Count is made for small dogs and puppies that weigh 5 to 22 pounds. It comes with 3 monthly doses. The treatment uses fipronil and (S)-methoprene to target fleas and ticks.
The orange package is easy to identify. Each dose is also simple to apply. You place the liquid on the dog’s skin, not just on the fur.
In this review, I will look at what this product does, how it works, how easy it is to use, and what I like and do not like about it.
FRONTLINE Plus Small Dog Review
What Is FRONTLINE Plus?
FRONTLINE Plus is a topical flea and tick treatment for dogs. This small-dog version is made for dogs weighing 5 to 22 pounds.
The 3-count pack gives you three applications. When used once a month, that means one pack can cover about three months of routine treatment.
It is made for dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age and older.
One thing I like is that the product is not a chew or pill. It is a liquid spot treatment. That can be helpful for dogs that do not like taking oral medicine.
How Does FRONTLINE Plus Work?
FRONTLINE Plus uses two active ingredients:
- Fipronil 9.8%
- (S)-methoprene 8.8%
Fipronil works against adult fleas and ticks. (S)-methoprene targets flea eggs and larvae.
This two-part approach is important because fleas are not only adult insects. Eggs and young fleas can also keep an infestation going.
So, the goal is not just to kill the fleas you see. It also helps break the flea life cycle.
Who Is This Product For?
This version is made for:
- Small dogs weighing 5 to 22 pounds
- Puppies 8 weeks and older
- Dogs that need regular flea and tick control
- Owners who prefer a topical treatment
- Dogs that are difficult to give oral flea medicine
Weight matters here.
I would not use the small-dog version on a dog simply because the dog is small. The dog should fall within the label weight range. Using the wrong size can lead to poor treatment or safety problems.
How to Apply FRONTLINE Plus
The application is fairly simple.
First, make sure you have the correct product for your dog’s weight.
Then:
- Open one applicator.
- Part the hair between the dog’s shoulder blades.
- Make sure you can see the skin.
- Place the applicator tip directly on the skin.
- Apply the full contents in one spot.
- Let the area dry before touching it.
The liquid needs to reach the skin. Putting it only on top of thick fur is not the right way to apply it.
I also would not let the dog lick the treated area.
The product should be applied once every 30 days. Do not apply another dose early unless a veterinarian tells you to do so.
What I Like About FRONTLINE Plus
Simple Monthly Treatment
The biggest benefit is the simple routine.
You do not need to remember a daily treatment. One application is used monthly.
The 3-count box also makes the schedule easy to manage.
Made for Small Dogs
The 5-22 pound range is useful for small breeds.
Many small dogs need a dose made specifically for their weight. This product gives owners a clear weight range to check before use.
Two Active Ingredients
I like that FRONTLINE Plus does more than target adult fleas.
Fipronil handles adult fleas and ticks, while (S)-methoprene targets flea eggs and larvae.
That gives the treatment a broader flea-control approach.
Easy Spot Application
There is no need to bathe the dog before every dose.
You simply part the hair and apply the liquid directly to the skin.
For many owners, this is much easier than trying to get a dog to swallow a tablet.
Three Doses in One Pack
The 3-count package is convenient.
You can keep the extra doses stored properly and have the next treatment ready when needed.
It also helps create a regular monthly routine.
What I Do Not Like
It Must Be Applied Correctly
The treatment is easy to use, but the application still matters.
If the liquid gets mostly on the fur instead of the skin, that is not ideal.
You need to take a little time to part the coat and find the skin.
Some Dogs May Not Like the Wet Spot
The liquid can leave a noticeable wet area after application.
Some dogs may also try to scratch or rub the spot.
It is best to keep an eye on the dog until the application area has dried.
It Does Not Replace Home Flea Control
A flea problem can involve more than the dog.
Flea eggs and immature stages may already be in bedding, carpets, furniture, or other parts of the home.
So, treating the dog alone may not solve a serious infestation.
Cleaning the home and treating other pets with the correct products can also be important.
Weight Range Is Limited
This orange version is only for dogs in the 5-22 pound range.
If your dog weighs more or less than that range, you need the appropriate size.
FRONTLINE Plus Pros and Cons
Pros
- Made for small dogs weighing 5-22 lbs.
- Suitable for dogs and puppies 8 weeks and older
- Uses fipronil and (S)-methoprene
- Targets adult fleas
- Helps control flea eggs and larvae
- Controls several types of ticks
- Simple topical application
- Monthly treatment schedule
- 3 doses included
- No daily pill is needed
Cons
- Must be applied directly to the skin
- The application area can stay wet for a while
- Some dogs may try to rub the area
- Correct weight matching is important
- Does not by itself clean an existing home flea infestation
- Not designed for dogs outside the 5-22 lb. range
Is FRONTLINE Plus Good for Small Dogs?
For the right dog, I think FRONTLINE Plus is a practical option to consider.
The product has a clear weight range. The application is simple. The 3-dose package also makes monthly treatment easy to plan.
I especially like the two active ingredients. One targets adult fleas and ticks, while the other targets flea eggs and larvae.
Still, no flea product should be treated as a magic fix. If a dog already has a heavy flea problem, the home environment may also need attention.
And because this is a pesticide product, I would always follow the package label closely and ask a veterinarian if I have concerns about using it on a particular dog.
How Long Does FRONTLINE Plus Last?
FRONTLINE Plus is designed for monthly use.
For routine flea and tick control, the treatment should be reapplied according to the product label, generally every 30 days.
The 3-count box therefore provides about three monthly applications.
Can Puppies Use FRONTLINE Plus?
Yes, this product is labeled for dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age and older within the correct weight range.
For the small-dog version, the dog should weigh 5 to 22 pounds.
For a young puppy, it is still a good idea to confirm the product and dose with a veterinarian.
Does FRONTLINE Plus Kill Flea Eggs?
Yes.
The (S)-methoprene ingredient is designed to control flea eggs and larvae.
This is one of the main differences between simply killing adult fleas and taking a broader approach to the flea life cycle.
Does FRONTLINE Plus Kill Ticks?
Yes.
FRONTLINE Plus is labeled to control several types of ticks.
However, tick exposure can vary by location and season. Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors may have a higher exposure risk.
Can I Use FRONTLINE Plus More Than Once a Month?
I would not.
The product directions call for monthly use, with no reapplication for 30 days.
Using more than the labeled amount can increase the risk of unwanted reactions. If you think the product is not working well enough, it is better to talk with a veterinarian rather than adding another dose early.
What Weight Dog Is the Orange FRONTLINE Plus For?
The orange version reviewed here is for small dogs weighing 5 to 22 pounds.
Always check your dog’s current weight before choosing a flea and tick treatment.
Can I Use FRONTLINE Plus on Cats?
No.
This specific product is labeled for dogs and puppies. You should never assume that a dog flea treatment is safe for cats.
If you have a cat in the home, use a product specifically labeled for cats.
Should I Bathe My Dog After Applying FRONTLINE Plus?
It is best to follow the product label for bathing and swimming.
The treatment needs time to spread and dry. A common direction for this product is to allow about 24 hours before bathing or swimming.
I would also avoid touching the wet application area until it has dried.
Is FRONTLINE Plus Easy to Use?
Yes, I would call it a fairly easy treatment.
The main step that needs care is getting the liquid onto the skin.
Once the hair is parted and the skin is visible, the application itself takes very little time.
Final Verdict
FRONTLINE Plus Flea & Tick Spot Treatment for Small Breed Dogs 5-22 lbs. (Orange), 3 Count is a simple monthly flea and tick treatment for small dogs.
Its main strengths are the clear weight range, easy spot application, and two active ingredients. Fipronil targets adult fleas and ticks, while (S)-methoprene helps control flea eggs and larvae.
The 3-dose pack is also convenient for keeping a regular monthly schedule.
The biggest thing to remember is proper use. Your dog must be in the correct weight range, the full dose should go directly onto the skin, and you should follow the label instructions.
If you have a small dog between 5 and 22 pounds and want a simple topical flea and tick treatment, FRONTLINE Plus is a solid option worth considering. For dogs with special health needs, very young puppies, or a severe parasite problem, checking with a veterinarian first is the safer choice.
Product ASIN: B00008DFGY
Product: FRONTLINE Plus Flea & Tick Spot Treatment for Small Breed Dogs 5-22 lbs. (Orange)
Pack Size: 3 doses
Target Dogs: 5-22 lbs.
Minimum Age: 8 weeks and older