Stronghold for the dog is a spot-on used to control and prevent certain canine parasites.
These are biting lice, fleas, digging and ear mites as well as roundworms and heartworms.
In the following guide we will tell you what you need to consider when using and dosing as well as possible side effects and alternatives.
Stronghold for dogs: what it is and what it is used for
Stronghold for dogs is a Antiparasitic, which is used both in the event of an acute parasite infestation and to prevent such can be used.
Stronghold for dogs belongs to the group of spot-ons, i.e. pharmaceutical/chemical agents intended to protect or rid dogs of endo- and ectoparasites.
Here, Stronghold is particularly effective against roundworms and heartworms, fleas, biting lice as well as digging and ear mites.
The active ingredient that creates this is selamectin. This is very often used in veterinary medicine against parasites.
Stronghold for dogs is available in different selamectin strengths, which depend on the body weight of the four-legged friend.
Incidentally, Stronghold is one of the few spot-ons that can also be used without hesitation in dogs with merle coloring.
Proper use and dosage of Stronghold in dogs
The correct dosage of Stronghold in the dog is between 15 mg selamectin and 240 mg selamectin.
Why such a large volume range? The body weight of the dog decides. The larger the fur nose, the higher the dose of selamectin in Stronghold for dogs.
And that can look like the one shown in the table below:
Dog body weight in kilogramseyedropper colorDose Selamectin/mgStronghold amount/mlless than 2.5kgPink 15mg0.25ml2.6 to 5 kgViolet 30mg0.25ml5.1 to 10 kgBrown 60mg0.5ml10.1 to 20 kgRed 120 mg 1.0 ml20.1 to 40kgGreen 240 mg 2.0 mlfrom 40 kgCombination of multiple pipettesCombination of multiple pipettesCombination of multiple pipettes
Thanks to the pipette function, application is relatively easy. Stronghold is applied to the skin between the shoulder blades.
We recommend wearing gloves when doing this so you don’t accidentally self-medicate with the antiparasitic.
That can happen faster than you think. Why? Because your dog probably finds the application of the spot-on really corrosive and therefore scurries about.
IMPORTANT
You can usually use a spot-on on your dog of your own choosing. Nevertheless, you should discuss the right remedy in advance with the veterinarian.
How long does it take for Stronghold to work in dogs?
strong hold takes between 8 and 24 hoursuntil it is completely distributed in the dog’s coat and skin.
The first effect then also sets in during this time, but you should assume 24 hours here until the parasites have been killed by Stronghold in the dog.
Like most spot-ons, Stronghold for Dogs has a total active time of 4 to 5 weeks.
If your dog tolerates Stronghold well and you think you want to give him this remedy more regularly, you can repeat the application after about 1 month.
What side effects can Stronghold cause in dogs?
Stronghold for Dogs can almost certainly produce side effects in some dogs, including fatigue, skin irritation and hair loss (alopecia).
This occurs at the site treated with Stronghold, but usually does not leave the skin areas completely bald.
If you have a particularly sensitive fur nose, vomiting and diarrhea as well as an increased breathing rate can also be side effects of Stronghold.
However, these side effects disappear on their own after a very short time.
If this is not the case, please take your dog to your veterinarian immediately!
When should I not use Stronghold on dogs?
You should not use Stronghold on your dog if it is younger than 6 weeks.
You should also discuss using Stronghold with your dog with your vet if your furry friend is weak or underweight.
In addition, Stronghold is not the right spot-on for your dog if he cannot tolerate the active ingredient.
There should be no concerns about pregnant or lactating bitches. But even in this case you can of course still consult the veterinarian.
Where is Stronghold for dogs available?
Stronghold is a prescription and therefore prescription spot-onwhich you can only get at the pharmacy upon presentation of a veterinary prescription.
In many cases, many veterinary practices also have Stronghold in their medicine cabinets.
On the other hand, where you don’t even have to go looking for Stronghold, your pet store is the place to go – whether on site or online.
What alternatives are there to Stronghold for dogs?
If your furry friend has had a really bad experience with Stronghold due to one of the side effects mentioned, another spot-on like Advantage can be an alternative.
The following spot-ons can also help against the parasites that Stronghold for dogs is also effective against:
- NextGard combo
- Advantage
- advocate
- frontline
- Bravecto
A flea and tick collar like the Seresto collar can also help against some parasites.
Would you rather try to use a natural remedy against mites, fleas & Co.?
Then the following home and natural remedies can be further alternatives to chemistry: Coconut oil/flakes, turmeric, neem oil and apple cider vinegar.
Have you ever treated your dog with Stronghold for dogs? Then we would be happy if you share your experiences with us in the comments!