Frontline Plus vs Credelio

Choosing a parasite treatments is an important part of protecting your dog against bothersome and potentially dangerous pests. Two of the top options are Frontline Plus and Credelio. Each of these incredible products offer a unique set of advantages, which we’ve detailed below to help you make the best choice for your pet.

What makes Frontline Plus and Credelio different from one another?

These products share some very impressive benefits. While Frontline Plus is a topical flea and tick treatment and Credelio is an oral product, they are both effective in killing fleas and ticks. They are also both applied monthly. Finally, they are both safe for use in dogs as young as 8 weeks old. Credelio should only be used in dogs weighing over 4.4 pounds.

There are also many differences between these two treatment options. Credelio has not been evaluated for safe use in lactating, pregnant, or breeding dogs, but Frontline Plus is safe for these dogs. Credelio is available only with a prescription, and Frontline Plus is an over-the-counter medication.

Frontline Plus kills flea eggs and larvae, and it also treats lice. It kills fleas within 12 hours and ticks within 48. Credelio kills 100% of fleas in 12 hours and 98.7% of ticks within 8.

Final thoughts on Frontline Plus vs. Credelio

To choose between these two incredible products, you’ll want to answer a few important questions:

  • Do you prefer an over-the-counter option like Frontline Plus, or would you be more comfortable with a prescription medication like Credelio?
  • Would an oral product such as Credelio be most convenient, or would a topical treatment like Frontline Plus be best for your pup?
  • Is your dog pregnant, lactating, or breeding? If so, Frontline Plus may be the choice for you.
  • Would your dog benefit from the added benefits of lice treatment and eradication of flea larvae and eggs? If you answered yes, Frontline Plus might be the ideal option.
  • The next step you’ll want to take is to contact your veterinarian. Your vet will be happy to talk to you about all the risks and benefits of treating your dog with either product. If you think of any other concerns or questions you’d like to address, feel free to reach out to the knowledgeable Allivet pharmacists for a pet parent consultation!

Feature Frontline Plus Credelio
Kills Fleas Yes Yes
Repels Fleas No No
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae Yes No
Kills Ticks Yes Yes
Repels Ticks No No
Repels Mosquitoes No No
Prevents Heartworm No No
Other Parasites Treats lice No
Waterproof Yes Yes since taken orally
How Long to work 12 hours to kill fleas and 48 hours to kill ticks Kills 100% of fleas in 12 hours and 98.7% of ticks in 8 hours.
Taste N/A Beef Flavored
Active Ingredient Fipronil and (S)-Methoprene Lotilaner
RX Required No Yes
Application Type Topical Chewable Tablet
Dosing 1 topical application per month 1 tablet per month
Age Dogs 8 weeks and older Dogs 8 weeks and older that weigh at least 4.4 pounds
Manufacturer Boehringer Ingelheim Elanco
Safety Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use. Has not been evaluated for use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs.