Comparing Nexgard vs. Sentinel: Which Parasite Protection Is Better for Your Dog?
When it comes to protecting your dog from harmful parasites, two of the most popular veterinary-recommended choices are
Nexgard and
Sentinel. Understanding their differences is essential to determine which is better suited for your pet based on their health needs and lifestyle.
What Is Sentinel?
Sentinel Flavor Tabs are a
prescription-only monthly chewable medication designed for
dogs and puppies. They provide comprehensive protection by preventing heartworm disease and controlling several common intestinal parasites. Each tablet contains two active ingredients:
- Milbemycin oxime – protects against heartworms, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms.
- Lufenuron – inhibits flea eggs from developing but does not kill adult fleas.
Sentinel is ideal for pet owners who want a multipurpose option, especially in households managing multiple types of parasite infections.
Sentinel Benefits
- Prevents heartworm disease
- Treats and controls hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms
- Stops flea eggs from hatching to limit infestations
- Safe for puppies 4 weeks and older above 2 lbs
- Once-monthly dosing that’s easy and convenient
- Palatable flavor options to encourage easy consumption
What Does Sentinel Not Do?
One notable limitation of Sentinel is that it
does not kill adult fleas. If your pet already has fleas or you're concerned about visible flea infestations, you may need a separate adulticide. This is where products like Nexgard come into play.
What Is Nexgard?
Nexgard is a monthly oral medication that targets one primary concern:
adult fleas and ticks. It contains the active ingredient
afoxolaner, which quickly kills fleas and ticks after ingestion. It’s often used in homes where flea and tick issues are the main concern.
Nexgard Strengths
- Fast-acting adult flea and tick killing
- Starts working in hours after administration
- Convenient monthly chew with beef flavor
- Recommended for dogs 8 weeks and older
How Sentinel and Nexgard Compare
| Feature |
Sentinel |
Nexgard |
| Heartworm Prevention |
Yes |
No |
| Intestinal Parasite Control |
Yes (hookworms, roundworms, whipworms) |
No |
| Flea Control |
Stops flea egg development |
Kills adult fleas and ticks |
| Adult Flea Killing |
No |
Yes |
| Tick Protection |
No |
Yes |
Which One Should You Choose?
The decision largely depends on your pet’s specific needs:
- If your primary concern is comprehensive internal parasite control and heartworm prevention, Sentinel is a great choice.
- If your pet frequently encounters fleas and ticks in wooded or grassy areas or has an existing flea infestation, Nexgard may be more effective in quickly killing those pests.
Some veterinarians recommend using both Sentinel and Nexgard together for all-around parasite coverage. However, always consult your vet before combining any medications.
Important Considerations with Sentinel
- Sentinel should be given with food to ensure proper absorption, especially of the ingredient lufenuron.
- Dogs should be tested for heartworm before starting Sentinel.
- Monitor your dog to ensure the tablet is swallowed fully, especially in picky eaters.
- Side effects are typically mild and can include vomiting, lethargy, or salivation.
Conclusion
Sentinel excels in
internal parasite control and flea egg regulation but doesn't kill adult fleas or ticks.
Nexgard provides superior protection against
fleas and ticks but lacks internal parasite control and heartworm protection.
For many dog owners, combining the strengths of both under veterinary guidance offers complete peace of mind. Whichever you choose, ensure it addresses your pet’s lifestyle and health conditions for optimal protection.
