When it comes to protecting dogs against parasites, various brands offer a line of products that provide effective parasitic control. But the greater question is which brand to go with and which product will suit your canine companion the best. To ease your worry a bit, we have shortlisted a popular brand – Nexgard – that offers a range of products to cater to the requirements of different dog parents.
In this blog, we will compare two high-in-demand products from this brand, i.e. Nexgard and Nexgard Plus. Let’s understand what each product brings to the table with a detailed comparison analogy, so you can decide which one suits your dog best.
NexGard Plus vs. NexGard: Overview
NexGard Plus
NexGard Plus is a beef-flavored chewable tablet for dogs and puppies aged eight weeks and older. It combines three active ingredients, afoxolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel, to protect against parasites. It is effective against adult fleas, black-legged ticks, American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, and lone-star ticks. It also helps prevent heartworm disease and control hookworms and roundworms.
NexGard
NexGard is a beef-flavored chew that protects against flea and tick infestations in dogs and puppies of eight weeks and older. Each chew contains afoxolaner, an active ingredient that kills adult fleas and protects against various types of ticks, including black-legged ticks, American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, long-horned ticks, and lone-horned ticks, and lone-star ticks. It helps prevent Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi) infections by killing vector ticks.
NexGard Plus & NexGard- Similarities
Both NexGard Plus and NexGard come with several features. Let’s take a look at the features they share:
- Age & Weight: NexGard Plus and NexGard are safe for dogs and puppies 8 weeks and older, weighing 4 pounds of body weight and above.
- Form and Administration: NexGard Plus and NexGard come as beef-flavored soft chewable tablets given orally to dogs and puppies according to weight.
- Frequency: NexGard Plus and NexGard are administered orally once a month with or without food for continuous protection.
- Flea and Tick Control: NexGard Plus and NexGard effectively kill fleas, black-legged ticks, American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, and lone-star ticks.
- Safety: The safe use of NexGard Plus and Nexgard in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs has not been evaluated.
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NexGard Plus & NexGard- Differences
Here’s a look at how NexGard Plus and NexGard differ from each other:
- Parasitic Coverage: NexGard Plus offers broader protection by preventing heartworm disease and treating and controlling intestinal worms such as hookworms and roundworms, while Nexgard focuses on fleas and ticks.
- Active Ingredients: NexGard Plus contains three ingredients: afoxolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel and NexGard contain a single ingredient afoxolaner.
- Lyme Disease: Nexgard is indicated for the prevention of Lyme disease infection in dogs. Nexgard Plus has no such claims.
NexGard Plus & NexGard – Comparison Chart
The chart below outlines the comparison of key features of NexGard Plus and NexGard:
Frequently Asked Questions
Are both products given in the same way?
Yes, both NexGard Plus and NexGard are beef-flavored chewable tablets that should be given orally once a month.
Are there specific age and weight requirements for using NexGard Plus and Nexgard?
Yes, both Nexgard Plus and Nexgard are approved to use in puppies and dogs that are at least 8 weeks or older and weighing at least 4 pounds.
Are NexGard Plus and Nexgard safe for breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs?
The safety of NexGard Plus and Nexgard has not been evaluated in breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs. Consult your veterinarian before using them on such dogs.
What is the main difference between NexGard Plus and Nexgard?
NexGard Plus and Nexgard contain different ingredients. Nexgard Plus works effectively against adult fleas, black-legged ticks, American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, and lone-star ticks and prevents heartworm diseases, treats & controls intestinal worms whereas, Nexgard protects against fleas, black-legged ticks, American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, lone-star ticks, and lone-horned ticks.
How are NexGard Plus and NexGard administered to dogs?
Both NexGard Plus and NexGard are chewable tablets. These tablets offer a delicious beef-flavor to prompt dogs and are given orally once a month. They can be given with or without food.
What should I do if I miss a dose of NexGard or NexGard Plus?
If your miss a dose, administer a dose and resume with the monthly dosing schedule
Final Thoughts
NexGard and NexGard Plus both will work for protecting your dog from fleas and ticks. Nexgard however, covers an additional tick species, i.e., longhorned ticks and is recommended for the prevention of Lyme disease.
In addition to fleas and ticks, if you are concerned for your dog’s risk of heartworm disease or intestinal worms, NexGard Plus in an ideal pick. However, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian to determine the best option for your pet’s well-being. Whether you choose NexGard or NexGard Plus, both provide monthly, convenient, and effective parasite protection for your furry friend.