Do dogs need a prescription
Best Dog Goggles: Do Dogs Need Glasses? Best For All Sized Dogs
Believe it or not, sunglasses and goggles are popular accessories for dogs. But does your dog need glasses? Are they just a waste of money? Glasses for dogs do more than merely bring out the hipster in your dog. They can help their eye health and vision. Im not talking about glasses for dogs with bad eyesight. More for eye protection. Learn more about this functional fashion statement and prescription glasses for dogs.
At A Glance: Best Dog Goggles
Do Dogs Need Glasses?
I didnt realize this until researching this topic but dogs are naturally nearsighted. In fact, they have terrible eyesight compared to humans. But can can dogs wear glasses? And do they make glasses for dogs?
According to Psychology Today, researchers have found that dogs have 20/75 vision compared to humans with normal 20/20 vision. This means thatan object a dog can barely recognize at 20 feet away is clear enough for a person with normal vision to identify at a distance of 75 feet.
Fortunately, Doggles, a leading manufacturer of dog eyewear, offers prescription dog glasses for pups of any size. The company says their corrective lenses have helped dogs who previously missed their mark on agility courses but now can pass. To get eye sight-correcting Doggles, youll need a prescription from your vet or a veterinary ophthalmologist. An autorefractor machine is used to determine the prescription strength, and the process is similar to finding the prescriptive strength of lenses for very small children.
Learn more about how to get Doggles prescription glasses on their website.
Why Would My Dog Need Goggles Or Sunglasses?
Protecting your dogs eyes from damaging UV rays, debris, or wind damage is just as significant as protecting your own eyes if you and your pup spend a lot of time outside. Goggles and sunglasses are particularlybeneficial forolder dogs with eye problems or diseases.
Goggles protect your dogs eyes from outdoor irritants such as dust, sand, ice, snow, water, and other elements. Theyre also ideal for dogs who spend a lot of time in open vehicles and boats to guard against wind damage.
Our Personal Experience With Goggles For Dogs
I used doggles for Maple when she was younger briefly to protect her eyes when because she loves having her head out the window. Nothing required but it was cute and made me feel better about any debris. We used them at the dog beach as well to make sure she did not get sand in her eyes.
Apiffany Gaither, former writer for Canine Journal and rescue dog mom
What Are The Best Dog Goggles & Sunglasses?
We chose our best sunglasses for dogs based on several factors, including fit, comfort, lens durability, protective features, and more. The best dog goggles are easy to put on your pup and have polarized lenses, rather than clear lenses, to reduce glare and shield their eyes from UV rays.
Best Overall: Doggles ILS Review
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Doggles has been making top-quality dog goggles for over 20 years. Its ILS line is feature-packed for optimal fit and comfort. These goggles have 100% UV protection, shatter-proof lenses, and anti-fog treatment on the inside of the lenses.
The lenses are also interchangeable and replaceable, so they can be used in a variety of lighting situations.Doggles come in various sizes and feature an extra-wide nose bridge for a more accurate fit around your dogs eyes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| UV, debris, and wind protection | Some complaints that the lenses scratch easily |
| Soft elastic adjustable straps for the perfect fit | |
| Extra-wide nose bridge | |
| Waterproof and anti-fog treated | |
| Deep lens cups and padded, flexible rubber frame | |
| Available in 5 sizes and 13 colors |
Price& Tech Specs
Best For Small Dogs: Enjoying Dog Goggles Review
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If you have a small dog, Enjoying Dog Goggles could be your best bet. These dog sunglasses/goggles feature easily adjustable straps for your dogs head and chin. And the straps stay put once you get the right fit. Many customers say these are the only dog goggles their dog will keep on.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| UV, debris, and wind protection | Only ideal for small dogs from 10-20 lbs |
| Adjustable straps that dont slip off | Some customers say the foam folds over easily |
| Users say theyre easy to put on and adjust | |
| Waterproof | |
| Foam-cushioned frames for added comfort |
Price & Tech Specs
- $9.99
- 3.9 chin strap length (minimum)
Best For Medium Dogs: Vevins Dog Goggles Sunglasses Review
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Vevins dog goggles come in one size, but the straps are adjustable enough to accommodate a wide range of sizes. These glasses are 100% UV resistant, waterproof, and have a flexible bridge design that fits many face shapes. Customers say theyre high-quality and durable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| UV, debris, and wind protection | Wont fit tiny dogs |
| Adjustable head and chin straps | |
| Waterproof | |
| Folding bridge design and foam pads for a flexible and comfortable fit | |
| Attractive design available in 6 colors |
Price & Tech Specs
- $9.79
- Frames: 5.9 length, 1.8 width
- Head strap: 8.7-15.7
- Chin strap: 6.3-10.2
Best For Large Dogs: PETLESO Large Dog Goggles Review
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Pet Lesos goggles are ideal for medium to large-sized dogs. Theyre durable and have dark lenses to protect your pups eyes from the sun. Theyre also suitablefor different sizes and face shapes with quickly adjustable elastic head and chin straps and two hinges at the nose piece to work for a thin or wide nose.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| UV, debris, and wind protection | Wont fit dogs under 20 lbs |
| Light and flexible over the nose area | Some complaints that the straps come undone too easily |
| Lenses made with shatter-proof polycarbonate | No strap measurements are available online |
| Waterproof | |
| Two hip styles to choose from |
Price
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions pup owners often ask about dogs and glasses. Dont see yours here? Please ask us in our comments.
Can Dog Wear Prescription Glasses?
Dogs can wear prescription glasses, but its essential to consult with a veterinarian or an animal ophthalmologist first to ensure that the glasses are fitted correctly and address any specific eye issues your dog may have. Prescription glasses for dogs are typically used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness or farsightedness or to protect their eyes if they have an injury or condition that requires eye protection.
Is It OK To Put Sunglasses On A Dog?
While its not harmful to put sunglasses on a dog, its not always necessary unless your dog has a specific medical condition or sensitivity to light. Some dogs may tolerate wearing sunglasses, especially if theyre properly fitted and comfortable, but others may resist or become stressed by them. If you do choose to put sunglasses on your dog, ensure that theyre designed specifically for dogs and provide UV protection.
How Do I Get My Dog Used To Wearing Glasses?
Getting your dog used to wearing glasses or sunglasses involves gradual desensitization and positive reinforcement. Start by letting your dog sniff and investigate the glasses without wearing them. Offer treats and praise for calm behavior. Initially, only have your dog wear the glasses for short periods of time. Then, gradually increasing the duration as they become more comfortable. Be patient and consistent with the training process.
Can Dogs Recognize You With Glasses On?
Dogs rely heavily on scent and other sensory cues to recognize people, so wearing glasses may not significantly affect their ability to recognize you, but it depends on the dog and type of glasses.
How Do Dogs See The World? (Video)
Didnt know that dogs are nearsighted? Arent you curious to learn more about how your dogs vision compares to yours? This brief video is full of fascinating insights into how your dog views the world.
Other Gear For Your Active Dog
If your dog loves car rides, goggles arent the only protection you need. Dont forget about your car seats. Car seat covers for dogs can help keep all the fur and dirt at bay. Do you like to take your dog hiking with you? You can let them roam free, but know where they are using a GPS collar. You can even outfit your pup with a doggie camera. And dont forget to protect your dogs feet from harsh terrain with dog booties. Learn more about eye issues with dogs, including cataracts in dogs and possible surgery options with a veterinary ophthalmologist.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Sally has over 20 years of experience in human health sciences communications, including 10 years as an expert on pet health conditions and treatment. Shes part of a team of dedicated canine professionals and long-time dog owners at Canine Journal. We test and research the best pet products, not only for our own pups but for all of our readers.
Tagged With: Comparison, EyesFlea and Tick Prevention and Treatment for Dogs
Preventative care is a key part of keeping your dog healthy and happy. One of the best ways you can prevent potential health issues is to use monthly flea and tick preventatives.
Why Is Flea and Tick Prevention Important for Dogs?
Fleas and ticks are ectoparasites, meaning they are pests that live on the outside of their host.
For fleas and tick to survive, they must bite their host and then feed on the blood. These bites can directly impact your dogs health. The saliva from a flea bite can cause severe allergies, dermatitis, anemia, itching, and infection. Tick bites can cause infection, abscesses, paralysis, and even death.
These nasty parasites can also harbor and spread a variety of diseases to dogs, including:
Some of these diseases are even zoonotic, which means they can spread to you and your family. That is why its critical to keep fleas and ticks off your dog, as well as out of your home.
When Do Dogs Need Flea and Tick Prevention?
Flea and ticks survive and thrive in mild to moderate weather, so its crucial to protect your pets during the warmer months. If you live in areas where the temperature stays warm year-round, then you should make sure you pet is on flea and tick prevention all year.
However, even northern states frequently experience a few warm, spring-like days during the winter months. These brief warm periods provide fleas and ticks enough time to get on your pets and in your house. Once inside, fleas can continue to reproduce, living in the floorboards, carpets, and anywhere your pet lives. If your dog isnt using a tick preventive, ticks may even crawl off your dog and onto the humans in the house.
What Are Flea and Tick Preventatives for Dogs?
There are a variety of products to help keep your dog free of parasites. These products can be in the form of pesticides, repellents, or growth inhibitors. Each of these types of preventatives tackle pests at different lifestages to prevent infestations.
Some products are only effective against one species, typically fleas. These include products such as flea dips, baths, and powders. To ensure your dog has coverage for both fleas and ticks, you may need additional medications.
Combination flea and tick preventatives for dogs contain multiple ingredients to battle different types of pests. These prevention options typically provide coverage for both fleas and ticks, but may also provide additional protection against heartworm, mites, or intestinal parasites.
Before deciding on a flea and tick medication, always check with your veterinarian and make sure it is a good fit for your dog. You will want to check the product label and consult with your veterinarian to make sure:
The product is the correct species for your pet (dog vs cat)
The product is intended for your pets life stage: puppy, adult, or senior
The product is within the correct weight range for your pet
The product is administered correctly (is it a chewable or a topical treatment)
The product protects against the appropriate parasites
If the product should be given with food
How often you should administer the product
How long before the product starts working
When you can bathe your pet
If the product has any other safety-related concerns
You have the correct phone numbers to call in the event of an adverse reaction
Even if youve previously used the medication, re-read the package insert, as the warnings and directions may have changed. Follow all instructions exactly and contact your veterinarian or the products company if you have any questions.
Choosing a Flea and Tick Combination Medicine for Dogs
There is no shortage of options when it comes to flea and tick prevention options for dogs, so finding the best one can feel overwhelming. Your veterinarian is a great resource for narrowing down your search and finding the best fit.
Here are 7 factors to consider as you determine what type of flea and tick medicine is the best for your dog.
Application Method
Flea and tick preventatives most commonly come in two forms:
Oral: Chewable tablet that your dog ingests
Topical: Liquid that is spread between the should blades or down the back of your dog
Topical flea and tick preventatives are a great option for pets that are picky eaters or have sensitive stomachs. However, if you have small children or other animals, you need to be careful that they dont touch or lick the product before it has time to dry.
Spot-on flea and tick options may have a medicinal smell or cause transient itching/irritation or even hair loss. Topical treatments are also not a great option for dogs that like to swim a lot or dogs that need frequent baths. Water can affect the efficacy of the product.
Oral treatments can be an easy and convenient option for dog parents because they can be given like a treat. If you use oral treatments, its best to monitor your dog to make sure they have eaten the entire tablet and do not throw it up before it can be absorbed into their system.
If your dog vomits after eating an oral flea and tick preventative, call your veterinarian for instructions on re-dosing, as well as to report a potential reaction to the product. Feeding oral preventatives with a meal may help decrease upset stomach as well as help with product absorption.
Geography
Different geographic locations have different local parasite populations, including fleas and ticks, as well as other parasites such as heartwormsand intestinal worms.
The Companion Animal Parasite Council is a helpful resource to identify the parasites in your area so that you can make sure whichever flea and tick product you choose keeps your dog fully protected.
Access to Outdoors
Consider the types of outdoor areas where your dog spends time. Dog parks, hiking trails, parks, and backyards can all be homes to fleas and ticks. If your dog spends a lot of time in wooded areas or spaces where other animals and dogs spend a lot of time, their risk of exposure to parasites goes up.
Even if your dog doesnt spend a lot of time outside, fleas can easily come in through window screens, on other pets who go outside, or even on a humans pants and shoes. Thats why veterinarians will always recommend flea and tick prevention regardless of how much time a dog spends outdoors.
MDR-1 Gene
Some breeds (such as Collies, Australian shepherds, and Shetland Sheepdogs, etc.) carry a genetic risk factor for a mutated gene that causes drug sensitivity. These dogs cannot safely process certain drugs, including some ingredients in preventatives.
Many veterinarians recommend testing dogs for the MDR-1 gene, especially affected breeds. The Washington State University Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory site has additional information on the mutation as well as which drugs to avoid and ways to test your pet.
Lifestyle
While there is no breed that is particularly at risk of acquiring fleas or ticks, some dogs may be at higher risk due to their personality and breed characteristics. Working, herding, and hunting dogs may spend most of their day in the field, while other dogs are content to stay at home, only venturing outside occasionally.
Lifestage
If your dog is still a puppy or is a small dog breed, you will need to consult your veterinarian to find an appropriate product for their weight or age. Most flea and tick preventatives have a minimum age of 6-8 weeks, but always check the package insert for confirmation.
Medical Conditions
Some classes of preventatives, called isoxazolines, should be used in extreme caution in dogs with a history of seizures or neurologic disease, as it could lower the seizure threshold.
No preventative should be used without thorough discussion with your veterinarian if:
Your pet has previously had an allergic reaction to the drug
Your pet is sick and/or underweight
Your pet is pregnant, nursing, or will be used for breeding in the future
Over-the-Counter vs Prescription Flea and Tick Medicine
As you browse your flea and tick prevention options, you will notice that some products require a prescription from your vet while others do not.
Over-the-Counter Flea and Tick Products
Over-the counter (OTC) flea and tick preventatives do not require a relationship with or prescription from a veterinarian. They are typically available for purchase online and in many retail pet stores.
If you decide on an OTC flea and tick preventative, always check in with your veterinarian to make sure it is a safe option for your pet. Your vet can advise you on:
Potential adverse drug interaction with one of your dogs current medications
Potential adverse reaction to your dogs current medical condition
Potentially provide a recommendation for a broader spectrum product for your dog
Whether you should consider testing for genetic conditions before starting a preventative
Any signs or symptoms of an adverse reaction to the medication
Prescription Flea and Tick Products
Prescription flea and tick preventatives do require a prescription from your veterinarian, but they typically cost a little more than OTC options. Most veterinarians recommend prescription products, as they are typically more effective and safer for your dog.
Many veterinarians agree that while prescription preventatives are more expensive than OTC treatments up-front, they prevent parasite infections and diseases more effectively. This keeps our pets happy and healthy, while also costing less than long-term costs of diagnosis and treatment of diseases spread by fleas and ticks.
Dog Flea and Tick Prevention Product Summaries
Advantage II is a topical monthly product containing the active ingredients imidacloprid and pyriproxyfen. This combination of drugs is fast-acting and kills all forms of fleas, including eggs, larva, and adults, within hours, as well as chewing lice. However, this product has no tick prevention. This product should only be used in dogs and puppies over 7 weeks and who weigh more than 3 pounds. It is typically applied every month.
Advantage Multi is a topical monthly product containing the active ingredients imidacloprid and moxidectin. This combination of drugs treats fleas, sarcoptic mange, intestinal parasites hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms, as well as preventing heartworm disease.
Advantage Multi is fast-acting, killing fleas within hours, but other parasites may take up to 24 hours. This product does not provide tick prevention. This product should only be used in dogs and puppies over 7 weeks and who weigh more than 3 pounds. It is typically applied every month.
Bravecto is a chewable tablet or topical solution containing the active ingredient fluralaner, which is in the isoxazoline drug class. Isoxazolines are absorbed systemically, and therefore must bite the dog to receive the drug. Bravecto is fast-acting, starting to kill fleas within 2 hours and ticks within 12 hours. This drug treats fleas and ticks and comes in three forms:Bravecto has also proven effective against demodectic, sarcoptic mange, and ear mites. As a drug in the isoxazoline class, all Bravecto products should be used with caution in dogs with a history of seizures, epilepsy, or neurologic disorders.
Comfortis is a chewable tablet containing the active ingredient spinosad. This product treats fleas only. Comfortis is fast-acting agent, killing fleas within 30 minutes of dosing. Dogs and puppies must be 14 weeks or older and weigh over 5 pounds. Comfortis is typically administered every month.
Credelio is a chewable tablet containing the active ingredient lotilaner, which is in the isoxazoline drug class. Isoxazolines are absorbed systemically, and therefore the parasite must bite the dog to receive the drug.
Credelio treats fleas and ticks. It is fast-acting, starting to kill fleas within 4 hours of administration. This product should only be used in dogs and puppies over 8 weeks and who weigh more than 4.4 pounds. Credelio is administered every month. As a drug in the isoxazoline class, all Credelio products should be used with caution in dogs with a history of seizures, epilepsy, or neurologic disorders.
Frontline Gold is a topical monthly product containing the active ingredients fipronil, (s)-methoprene, and pyriproxyfen. This combination of drugs kills all fleas (all forms), ticks, and chewing lice. Frontline Gold is fast-acting, killing fleas and ticks within hours. This product should only be used in dogs and puppies over 8 weeks and weighing more than 5 pounds. It is typically applied every month.
Frontline Plus is a topical monthly product containing the active ingredients fipronil and (s)-methoprene. This combination of drugs kills all fleas (all forms), ticks, and chewing lice. Frontline Gold is fast-acting but may take longer than Frontline Gold. This product should only be used in dogs and puppies over 8 weeks and weighing more than 5 pounds. It is typically applied every month.
Frontline Shield is a topical monthly product containing the active ingredients fipronil. permethrin, and pyriproxyfen. This combination of drugs kills all fleas, ticks, chewing lice, and stable flies. It also repels mosquitos, stable flies, and ticks. Frontline Shield is fast-acting, starting to kill fleas in five minutes and ticks within one hour. This product should only be used in dogs and puppies over 9 weeks and weighing more than 5 pounds. It is typically applied every month. This product is highly toxic to cats, so avoidance or extreme caution should be used in households with cats.
K9 Advantix II is a topical monthly product containing the active ingredients imidacloprid. permethrin, and pyriproxyfen. This combination of drugs repels and kills fleas (all forms), ticks, mosquitos, and chewing lice, while also repelling biting flies.
K9 Advantix II is fast-acting, starting to kill parasites within hours. This product should only be used in dogs and puppies over 7 weeks and weighing more than 4 pounds. It is typically applied every month. This product is highly toxic to cats, so avoidance or extreme caution or should be used in households with cats.
Nexgard is a chewable tablet containing the active ingredient afoxolaner, which is in the isoxazoline drug class. Isoxazolines are absorbed systemically, and therefore must bite the animal in order to receive the drug.
Nexgard is effective against fleas, deer ticks, American dog ticks, brown ticks, and lone star ticks. It is also effective for extra-label treatment of sarcoptic and demodectic mange. Nexgard starts to kill fleas within four hours and ticks up to 48 hours.
The monthly product should only be used in dogs and puppies over 8 weeks and who weigh more than 4 pounds. As a drug in the isoxazoline class, all Nexgard products should be used with caution in dogs with a history of seizures, epilepsy, or neurologic disorders.
Onguard Plus is a topical monthly product containing the active ingredients fipronil and (s)-methoprene. This combination of drugs kills all fleas (all forms), ticks, sarcoptic mange, and chewing lice. Onguard Plus is fast-acting. This product should only be used in dogs and puppies over 8 weeks and weighing more than 5 pounds. It is typically applied every month.
Seresto is a collar containing the active ingredients imidacloprid and flumethrin. This combination of drugs kills and repels fleas and ticks for 8 months. Fleas are killed within 24 hours of application and ticks are killed 48 hours after. If a dog is bathed or swims frequently (more than once per month), it may decrease efficacy and need to be replaced as frequently as every 5 months. The product should only be used in dogs and puppies over 7 weeks of age.
Simparica Trio is a chewable tablet containing the active ingredient sarolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel. Sarolaner is in the isoxazoline drug class. Isoxazolines are absorbed systemically, and therefore must bite the animal in order to receive the drug. Simparica Trio treats fleas, ticks, roundworms, and hookworms, while also preventing heartworm disease.
It is also used extra-label to treat demodectic mange, sarcoptic mange, and ear mites. It is also effective for extra-label treatment of sarcoptic and demodectic mange. Simparica Trio is fast-acting, starting to kill fleas and ticks within 4-12 hours. This product should only be used in dogs and puppies over 8 weeks and who weigh more than 2.8 pounds. As a drug in the isoxazoline class, all Simparica products should be used with caution in dogs with a history of seizures, epilepsy, or neurologic disorders.
Trifexis is a chewable tablet containing the active ingredients spinosad and milbemycin oxime. Trifexis is effective against fleas, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms, while also preventing heartworm disease. It is a fast-acting drug, starting to kill fleas within 30 minutes. This product does provide protection from ticks. Dogs and puppies must be 8 weeks or older and weigh over 5 pounds.
Vectra 3D is a topical monthly product containing the active ingredients dinitefuran, permethrin, and pyriproxyfen. This combination of drugs repels and kills fleas (all forms), ticks, mosquitos, chewing lice, sand and biting flies, and some mites.
Vectra is fast-acting, starting to kill parasites within hours. This product should only be used in dogs and puppies over 8 weeks and weighing more than 5 pounds. It is typically applied every month. This product is highly toxic to cats, so avoidance or extreme caution or should be used in households with cats.
References
American Veterinary Medical Association. Safe use of flea and tick preventative products.
Clinicians Brief. Isoxazolines.
U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Safe Use of Flea and Tick Products in Pets.
Featured Image: iStock.com/Capuski
WRITTEN BY
Lauren Jones, VMDVeterinarian
Dr. Lauren Jones graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 2010, after receiving her bachelor's degree...
