The paper covers the topical ectoparasiticides currently available in Italy useful for protection of dogs against sand fly bites and for prevention of Leishmania transmission. The information included provides veterinary practitioners operating in the field of prevention of canine leishmaniasis with scientific information and guidance relative to: i) active principles and modes of action of these ectoparasiticides, ii) criteria for efficacy evaluation, iii) available products, iv) their application, and v) potential toxicity and adverse effects.