Stronghold 12% for dogs of 2.5–5 kg by Zoetis is a spot-on containing selamectin, a semi-synthetic avermectin. It acts on fleas at all life stages, ear mites, sarcoptic mange mites and is used to prevent heartworm. Protection lasts about 30 days. Stronghold absorbs quickly: just 2 hours after application your dog can be stroked and bathed. Puppies can have it from 6 weeks, and pregnant and nursing dogs too. Worth knowing: ixodid ticks, which carry babesiosis, need separate protection.
What it is and who makes it
Stronghold is made by Zoetis (USA). Selamectin is absorbed through the skin and distributed around the body, so it acts on external and some internal parasites. It comes in 6% and 12% concentrations and in pipettes sized for the dog's weight; the pack for dogs of 2.5–5 kg holds three 0.25 ml pipettes — three months of protection. According to the manufacturer, it has been tested on many breeds, including Collies and their crosses.
What it protects against
| Parasite or disease | Effect |
|---|---|
| Fleas (adults, eggs, larvae) | Kills them and prevents infestation for about 30 days |
| Flea allergy dermatitis | Used in treatment |
| Ear mites | Treatment |
| Sarcoptic mange | Treatment |
| Heartworm | Prevention with monthly use |
| Ixodid ticks | Not covered — another product is needed |
How to apply it correctly
- Apply to dry skin; never apply to a wet coat.
- Part the coat at the base of the neck so the skin is visible.
- Squeeze the whole pipette onto one spot. Don't rub it in.
- Avoid contact with the dog for 30 minutes; after 2 hours it can be stroked and bathed.
- Repeat monthly.
Pros
- Absorbs fast. Bathing and stroking are fine after 2 hours.
- No greasy marks or smell. The coat doesn't look oily.
- Broad spectrum. Fleas, ear and mange mites, heartworm prevention.
- For young puppies. From 6 weeks; allowed for pregnant and nursing dogs.
- Tested on Collies. According to the manufacturer, safe for breeds sensitive to some antiparasitic drugs.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- Not for ixodid ticks. In tick season, add a tablet or collar on your vet's advice.
- High pack price. But it contains three pipettes — three months.
- Not on a wet coat. After bathing, wait until the dog is fully dry.
- Local reaction. Very rarely mild irritation at the application site.
Stronghold for ear mites
If your dog shakes its head and scratches its ears, and there's dark debris like coffee grounds inside, it may be ear mites. See a vet first, as bacterial and yeast ear infections look similar. If confirmed, Stronghold is a convenient treatment: the drops go on the neck, not in the ear. Clean the ears beforehand with an ear cleaner — see how in our Auricap review.
Who it suits
Puppies and small dogs, dogs with ear mites or mange (as prescribed by a vet), and dogs living near water or in mosquito areas. For complete protection, read fleas and ticks in dogs and worms in cats and dogs. All products are in parasite control.
Verdict
Stronghold is a convenient selamectin spot-on: it absorbs quickly, suits puppies from 6 weeks and covers fleas, ear and mange mites and heartworm. It doesn't protect against ixodid ticks, so in spring and autumn it's combined with another product on your vet's advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Stronghold protect against ticks?
Against ear and mange mites — yes; against ixodid ticks — no. You need another product for those.
When can I bathe my dog after Stronghold?
2 hours after application.
From what age can puppies have Stronghold?
From 6 weeks.
How often should Stronghold be applied?
Once a month; your vet will set the regimen for ear mites and mange.
Can I use dog Stronghold on a cat?
No, cats have their own strengths. Use a product chosen for the species and weight of your pet.
How many pipettes are in the pack and how long do they last?
The pack for dogs of 2.5–5 kg contains three 0.25 ml pipettes — enough for three months of monthly treatments for one dog.
