Frontline Plus vs K9 Advantix II

Choosing the right flea and/or tick treatment for your dog can be a daunting chore. With the wide variety of products to choose from, the decision becomes even more difficult. A couple of the best-loved treatment options include Frontline Plus and K9 Advantix. These two products share some similarities, but they are also different in unique ways that set them apart from each other. Take a look at the table and information below, which we’ve assembled to make your choice just a little bit easier.

What are the key differences between Frontline Plus and K9 Advantix II?

At first glance, these products may appear quite similar to one another. After all, they are both topical flea and tick treatments. They are both administered monthly, and they are both safe for use in puppies (Frontline Plus from an age of 8 weeks, and K9 Advantix II from 7 weeks and 4 pounds of body weight).

Neither product requires a prescription. They each kill fleas within 12 hours, kill flea eggs and larvae, kill ticks, and treat lice

Frontline Plus is safe for use in pregnant, lactating, and breeding dogs, while K9 Advantix is not proven safe for use in these cases. K9 Advantix II combines three active ingredients - Pyriproxyfen, Imidacloprid, and Permethrin. Frontline Plus contains two active ingredients - (S)-Methoprene and Fipronil. K9 Advantix II offers the added benefit of flea, tick, biting fly, and mosquito-repelling activity.

Key takeaways on Frontline Plus vs. K9 Advantix II

If you ask your veterinarian, they’re likely to agree that both of these products are reliable, effective, and safe. However, answering a couple of questions can help you decide between the two:

  • Is your dog pregnant, breeding, or lactating? If so, you may opt for Frontline Plus.
  • Does your dog frequently come into contact with mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, and/or fleas? If so, you may want to opt for the repellent action offered by K9 Advantix II.
  • If you find yourself with any concerns or questions about these or any other medication your pet may be taking, give the Allivet pharmacists a call! They’re always happy to provide pet parents with advice and free pet parent consultations.

Feature Frontline Plus K9 Advantix II
Kills Fleas Yes Yes
Repels Fleas No Yes
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae Yes Yes
Kills Ticks Yes Yes
Repels Ticks No Yes
Repels Mosquitoes No Yes
Prevents Heartworm No No
Other Parasites Treats lice Lice & Biting Flies
Waterproof Yes Yes
How Long to work 12 hours to kill fleas and 48 hours to kill ticks 12 hours to kill fleas
Taste N/A N/A
Active Ingredient Fipronil and (S)-Methoprene Permethrin, Imidacloprid, and Pyriproxyfen
RX Required No No
Application Type Topical Topical
Dosing 1 topical application per month Monthly application
Age Dogs 8 weeks and older Puppies 7 weeks and older and weighing more than 4 lbs.
Manufacturer Boehringer Ingelheim Bayer Animal Health
Safety Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use. Don't apply to cats