Best Prescription Dog Medications of 2026

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

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Prescription dog medications are specially formulated treatments designed to address a variety of canine health issues, from infections and allergies to chronic conditions like arthritis and epilepsy. These medications require a veterinarian’s approval to ensure proper dosage and safety tailored to each dog’s needs. Common types include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and heartworm preventatives. When used correctly, prescription medications play a crucial role in maintaining a dog’s overall health and improving their quality of life.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Simparica Trio Chewable Tablets for Dogs Cover #TOP 1
Simparica Trio Chewable Tablets for Dogs
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Galliprant 100 mg Chewable Tablets for Dogs Cover #TOP 2
Galliprant 100 mg Chewable Tablets for Dogs
ftb score rating icon 9.7
NexGard Afoxolaner Flea & Tick Chewables Cover #TOP 3
NexGard Afoxolaner Flea & Tick Chewables
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Prescription Dog Medications

#TOP 1

Simparica Trio Chewable Tablets for Dogs

23013158MD
Blue
22.1-44 lbs
Simparica Trio Chewable Tablets for Dogs Cover
Simparica Trio (sarolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel chewable Tablets) Chewables for Dogs, 24 mg/tab, 22.1-44 lbs, (Blue), 1 Tablet

Simparica Trio Protection Chews offer a convenient monthly solution to keep your dog safe from multiple parasites. This chewable protects against heartworms, which are serious and potentially fatal, giving you peace of mind with proven 100% effectiveness. It also guards your dog against six different types of ticks, including those that can cause Lyme disease, helping prevent tick-borne illnesses. Flea control is covered too, stopping infestations before they start by killing fleas early. Additionally, it treats common intestinal worms like roundworms and hookworms, supporting your dog's overall health. Easy to give and suitable for puppies as young as eight weeks, it’s a simple way to triple protect your furry friend.

What We Like
All-in-one protection
Convenient monthly dosing
Effective flea and tick control
Cheaper than vet prices
Easy to administer
What We Don't Like
Higher cost for some
Mild, rare stomach upset
#TOP 2

Galliprant 100 mg Chewable Tablets for Dogs

21006069BO
Grey
100mg
Galliprant 100 mg Chewable Tablets for Dogs Cover
Galliprant Osteoarthritis Pain & Inflammation Control for Dogs |100 mg | 30 Flavored Tablets

Galliprant Dog Osteoarthritis Relief is a unique medication designed specifically to ease pain and inflammation caused by osteoarthritis in dogs. It works by focusing directly on the source of your dog's discomfort, which helps reduce side effects on vital organs like the liver and kidneys, though regular check-ups are advised if used long-term. This product is suitable for dogs over nine months old and weighing more than eight pounds, making it an early option for managing osteoarthritis symptoms. Plus, its pork-flavored chewable tablets make daily dosing easy and enjoyable for your dog, helping you maintain consistent treatment.

What We Like
Lower cost than vet
Convenient prescription process
Effective for joint pain
Fast shipping
Easy to administer
What We Don't Like
Slightly expensive
Possible digestive issues
#TOP 3

NexGard Afoxolaner Flea & Tick Chewables

25072410MD
Purple
24.1-60 lbs
NexGard Afoxolaner Flea & Tick Chewables Cover
NexGard® (afoxolaner) Flea and Tick Protection for Dogs Oral Soft Beef Flavored Chewables, 24.1 to 60 lbs. (Purple Box) 1 Chew (1 Month Supply)

NexGard Flea Tick Chew is a trusted choice for protecting your dog against fleas and ticks. It works quickly to kill fleas before they can lay eggs, helping to stop infestations early. This product is also FDA-approved to help prevent Lyme disease by eliminating black-legged ticks, giving you peace of mind. It provides full-month protection, so you don’t have to worry about frequent dosing. Plus, dogs enjoy the tasty beef flavor, making it easy to give your pet their monthly treatment without a fight.

What We Like
Effective flea and tick prevention
Easy to administer chewable
Well-tolerated by sensitive dogs
No noticeable side effects
Preferred over topical treatments
What We Don't Like
Prescription required for purchase
Packaging can be tricky
#TOP 4

Generic Cephalexin Capsules 500 mg for Pets

Generic
GEN00113P2
500 mg
Generic Cephalexin Capsules 500 mg for Pets Cover
Cephalexin Capsules for Dogs and Cats, 500 mg, 60 Capsules

Generic Cephalexin Capsules are designed to help treat bacterial infections in dogs and cats, especially those affecting the skin and urinary tract. If your pet is dealing with infections like wounds, respiratory issues, or surgical site infections, this medication can be a helpful option. However, it's important to know that it should not be given to certain small animals like rabbits or guinea pigs, as it may cause serious harm. Always check with your veterinarian before use, as they might recommend Cephalexin for other animals too. This medicine is widely accepted by vets, even though it doesn’t have FDA approval for all animal uses.

What We Like
Effective bacterial infection treatment
Useful for skin and urinary infections
Also treats respiratory and wound infections
Veterinarian-approved for multiple species
#TOP 5

VETMEDIN Pimobendan Chewable Tablets 1.25 mg

64044801BO
Green
1.25mg
VETMEDIN Pimobendan Chewable Tablets 1.25 mg Cover
VETMEDIN® (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets for Dogs, 1.25 mg, inodilator, 50ct

Vetmedin Heart Support Chewables are designed specifically for dogs diagnosed with congestive heart failure caused by common heart conditions like myxomatous mitral valve disease or dilated cardiomyopathy. This medication helps improve your dog’s quality of life and can extend their survival time, offering you more precious moments together. The chewable tablets come in a tasty beef flavor, making it easier for you to give your dog their medicine. Available in several doses, Vetmedin fits dogs of all sizes, ensuring the right amount is given for effective treatment. Remember, it requires a prescription from your vet.

What We Like
Improved energy and vitality
Reduced coughing symptoms
Easy to administer
Vet-recommended medication
Lower price than vet
What We Don't Like
Flavor not always appealing
Initial upset stomach
#TOP 6

NexGard Oral Flea and Tick Chew, 10.1-24 lbs

25072408MD
Blue
10.1-24 lbs
NexGard Oral Flea and Tick Chew, 10.1-24 lbs Cover
NexGard® (afoxolaner) Flea and Tick Protection for Dogs Oral Soft Beef Flavored Chewables,10.1 to 24 lbs. (Blue Box) 1 Chew (1 Month Supply)

NexGard Flea Tick Chew is a trusted choice for protecting your dog against fleas and ticks. It works quickly to kill fleas before they can lay eggs, helping to stop infestations early. This product is FDA-approved to help prevent Lyme disease by targeting black-legged ticks, giving you peace of mind for your pet’s health. It provides full protection throughout the month, so you only need to give it once a month. Plus, dogs enjoy the tasty beef flavor, making it easy for you to give the chew without any struggle. This makes NexGard a convenient and effective option for keeping your dog safe and comfortable.

What We Like
Effective flea and tick prevention
Easy to administer chewable
No adverse reactions in sensitive dogs
Preferred over topical treatments
Dogs enjoy the taste
What We Don't Like
Prescription required for purchase
Packaging can be hard to open
#TOP 7

Apoquel 5.4 mg Tablets for Dogs

23013189P1
White
5.4 mg
Apoquel 5.4 mg Tablets for Dogs Cover
Apoquel (oclacitinib Tablet) for Dogs, 5.4 mg, 30 Tablets

If your dog suffers from constant itching due to allergies, Apoquel Allergy Relief offers a fast and effective solution. This medicine targets the root cause of allergic itch, helping to stop your dog’s discomfort quickly—often within just a few hours. Unlike steroids or antihistamines, it works differently to provide relief without suppressing the immune system. You can use it for short-term flare-ups or long-term care, making it flexible for your dog's needs. Plus, Apoquel is safe to use alongside many common medications, giving you peace of mind when managing your pet’s health.

What We Like
Fast itch relief
Effective for dog allergies
Reduces paw chewing
Immediate visible results
Less vet visits needed
What We Don't Like
High price
Temporary relief only
#TOP 8

Generic Benazepril 10mg Tablets for Pets

Generic
GEN00043BO
10mg
Generic Benazepril 10mg Tablets for Pets Cover
Benazepril Tablets for Dogs and Cats, 10mg, 100 Tablets

Generic Benazepril Pet Tablets are often used alongside other treatments to help manage heart failure and high blood pressure in your dogs and cats, making it easier to control these serious health conditions. It can also support kidney health by treating certain kidney diseases and lowering harmful protein levels in urine, which helps protect your pet’s kidneys over time. However, you should avoid using this medication if your pet is pregnant or suffering from sudden kidney problems. Always check with your vet before giving this medicine, especially if you have other types of animals, as it might be prescribed off-label for them too.

What We Like
Supports heart failure management
Helps control high blood pressure
Treats kidney disease
Reduces protein in urine
Veterinarian-approved off-label use
#TOP 9

Credelio Quattro Dog Flea & Tick Chewable

21582501EA
Gold
3.3-6 lbs
Credelio Quattro Dog Flea & Tick Chewable Cover
Credelio Quattro Dog Flea & Tick Treatment + Heartworm & Parasite Protection, 3.3-6 lbs (1 Chewable Tablet)

The Credelio Quattro Chewable offers comprehensive protection against six types of parasites, making it one of the most complete treatments available. This means you can protect your dog from fleas, ticks, heartworm, and several intestinal worms all with one monthly chewable. It's convenient to give since the tablet is flavored and FDA-approved, so your dog can take it easily with food. Plus, it’s a prescription medication, ensuring that it’s safe and tailored for puppies and dogs weighing between 3.3 and 6 pounds. This product helps you keep your furry friend healthy with minimal hassle.

What We Like
Highly effective flea control
Easy administration
Minimal side effects
Comprehensive protection
Picky dogs accept willingly
What We Don't Like
Somewhat expensive
Hard to feed some dogs
#TOP 10

Virbac CLOMICALM Clomipramine 5 mg Tablets for Dogs

24040312BO
Brown
Virbac CLOMICALM Clomipramine 5 mg Tablets for Dogs Cover
CLOMICALM® (clomipramine Hydrochloride) Tablets for Dogs- 5 mg

Virbac CLOMICALM Anxiety Tablets have been trusted for over 20 years to help dogs suffering from separation anxiety. If your dog shows signs like excessive barking, chewing, drooling, or accidents when you’re away, these tablets can ease those symptoms and support behavior training efforts. While not a sedative, you might notice your dog being a bit calmer or less active, which helps them manage anxiety better. However, these tablets aren’t suitable for dogs with seizure histories or those taking certain medications. Also, they are designed specifically for separation anxiety and not other issues like aggression.

What We Like
Long-standing trusted use
Reduces separation anxiety symptoms
Supports behavior modification
Not a sedative but calming
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our prescription dog medication research, we found 24 prescription dog medication products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,473 customer reviews through our big data system to write the prescription dog medications list. We found that most customers choose prescription dog medications with an average price of $30.29.

The prescription dog medications are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of prescription dog medications, including Simparica Trio, Galliprant, Nexgard, Vetmedin, Apoquel. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 903 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Janie Foster Avatar

Janie Foster is a writer & pet blogger from Los Angeles, she enjoys living with her two cats and three dogs. She owned her first dog 10 years ago and then started her personal blog to record her dog's daily life. Throughout her personal life, she has developed specialized knowledge in pet care, pet nutrition, feeding habits, and more.

Prescription Dog Medications Comparison Table

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Brand Simparica Trio Galliprant Nexgard Generic Vetmedin Nexgard Apoquel Generic Credelio Quattro Virbac
Brand Name Simparica Trio Galliprant Nexgard Generic Vetmedin Nexgard Apoquel Generic Credelio Quattro Virbac
Target Audience Keyword Dogs Dogs dogs Cats, Dogs, dogs Dogs dogs Dogs, dogs Cats, Dogs, dogs Dogs, dogs Dogs
Size 22.1-44 lbs 100mg 24.1-60 lbs 500 mg 1.25mg 10.1-24 lbs 5.4 mg 10mg 3.3-6 lbs 5mg
Specific Uses for Product flea-and-tick, heartworm pain Parasites Eyes Heart Parasites Coat Heart flea-and-tick, heartworm anxiety
Model Name Simparica Trio Chewables for Dogs Galliprant Tablets for Dogs Nexgard Chewables for Dogs Cephalexin Capsules for Dogs and Cats Vetmedin Chewable Tablets for Dogs Nexgard Chewables for Dogs Apoquel Tablets for Dogs Benazepril Tablets for Dogs and Cats Credelio Quattro for Dogs -
Color Blue Grey Purple - Green Blue White - Gold Brown
Item Weight 1.6 ounces 1.6 ounces 1.6 ounces - 1.6 ounces 1.6 ounces - - 1.6 ounces -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy