Understanding the Two Types of NexGard for Dogs
When it comes to protecting your dog from harmful parasites, choosing the right preventative medication is key. NexGard and NexGard PLUS are two effective products designed to keep dogs safe from a variety of pests including fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms. While they share some similarities, there's a distinct difference in their coverage and ingredients. In this article, we break down the key distinctions between these two formulations to help you make an informed decision for your canine companion.
What Is NexGard?
NexGard is an oral chewable tablet primarily used for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations and controlling tick infestations in dogs. It contains afoxolaner as its active ingredient, an isoxazoline compound known for effectively killing adult fleas and ticks.
- Kills adult fleas before they lay eggs
- Effective against multiple species of ticks, including black-legged ticks, American dog ticks, lone star ticks, and brown dog ticks
- Single active ingredient: afoxolaner
- Monthly oral administration
- Tasty beef-flavored chew
What Is NexGard PLUS?
NexGard PLUS builds upon the original NexGard by expanding parasite protection to include heartworm disease, roundworms, and hookworms. It combines three active ingredients: afoxolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel, making it a comprehensive all-in-one solution for parasite prevention.
- Afoxolaner: Kills adult fleas and ticks
- Moxidectin: Prevents heartworm disease by targeting heartworm larvae
- Pyrantel: Treats and controls roundworm and hookworm infections
- Protects against five major parasites
- Designed for monthly use, with or without food
- Safe for puppies 8 weeks and older, weighing at least 4 pounds
Key Differences Between NexGard and NexGard PLUS
While both products are chewable and designed for monthly dosing, they serve different purposes:
- NexGard: Flea and tick prevention
- NexGard PLUS: Flea, tick, heartworm, roundworm, and hookworm prevention
One of the most significant differences is that NexGard PLUS includes two additional active ingredients, giving it broad-spectrum protection for both internal and external parasites. Pet owners looking for an all-in-one solution may prefer NexGard PLUS.
Benefits of NexGard PLUS
- Comprehensive protection in a single monthly chew
- Fast-acting: Starts killing fleas within 4 hours
- Consistently effective: Tick efficacy above 90% for common species
- Monthly use helps prevent re-infestation
- No need for food during administration
- Approved for use with other common medications and treatments
Safety and Administration Tips
When using either NexGard or NexGard PLUS, it's important to follow the prescribed guidelines:
- Give orally once per month on the same day
- Encourage the dog to consume the full chew
- If side effects like vomiting occur, consult your vet
- Dogs should be tested for heartworms before starting NexGard PLUS
Common side effects may include diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and itching. Dogs with a history of neurologic disorders should be monitored closely due to the presence of isoxazoline compounds like afoxolaner, which can cause tremors or seizures.
Choosing the Right Product for Your Dog
If your dog only requires protection from fleas and ticks, NexGard may be sufficient. However, in areas where heartworm and intestinal parasites are prevalent, NexGard PLUS offers an advantage due to its expanded protection. Always consult with a veterinarian before starting any new parasite preventative, especially if your dog has an existing condition or is on other medications.
Regardless of your choice, maintaining consistent monthly dosing is crucial for effective protection. Follow dosage recommendations based on your dog's weight, and give the chew on the same day each month to ensure constant coverage.
Conclusion
Both NexGard and NexGard PLUS offer reliable, vet-approved protection, but their difference lies in the spectrum of parasites they target. While NexGard excels in flea and tick control, NexGard PLUS provides a more holistic defense, including heartworm and intestinal worm protection. By understanding the strengths of each product, pet owners can tailor parasite prevention to their dog's specific needs, improving their overall health and well-being.
