Nexgard Vs Nexgard Plus

Choosing the right flea and tick prevention for your dog is crucial for their health and well-being. Two popular options on the market are Nexgard and Nexgard Plus. Both are manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim and are designed to protect dogs from various parasites. However, there are key differences between Nexgard vs Nexgard Plus that pet owners should be aware of before making a decision.

Table of Contents

Understanding Nexgard

Nexgard is a chewable tablet that provides protection against fleas and ticks. It contains the active ingredient afoxolaner, which is effective in killing fleas and ticks within 24 hours of administration. Nexgard is available in different strengths to accommodate dogs of various sizes, from small breeds to large breeds.

Key features of Nexgard include:

Effective against fleas and ticks
Kills fleas and ticks within 24 hours
Available in different strengths for various dog sizes
Easy-to-administer chewable tablet

Understanding Nexgard Plus

Nexgard Plus, on the other hand, offers broader protection. It contains two active ingredients: afoxolaner and milbemycin oxime. Afoxolaner targets fleas and ticks, while milbemycin oxime provides additional protection against heartworm disease, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. This makes Nexgard Plus a comprehensive solution for parasite prevention.

Key features of Nexgard Plus include:

Effective against fleas, ticks, heartworm disease, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms
Kills fleas and ticks within 24 hours
Available in different strengths for various dog sizes
Easy-to-administer chewable tablet

Nexgard vs Nexgard Plus: Key Differences

When comparing Nexgard vs Nexgard Plus, the primary difference lies in the additional protection offered by Nexgard Plus. While both products are effective against fleas and ticks, Nexgard Plus goes a step further by including protection against heartworm disease and intestinal parasites. This makes Nexgard Plus a more comprehensive option for pet owners who want to ensure their dogs are protected from a wider range of parasites.

Here is a comparison table to highlight the differences:

Feature	Nexgard	Nexgard Plus
Active Ingredients	Afoxolaner	Afoxolaner and Milbemycin Oxime
Protection Against	Fleas and Ticks	Fleas, Ticks, Heartworm Disease, Roundworms, Hookworms, and Whipworms
Effectiveness	Kills fleas and ticks within 24 hours	Kills fleas and ticks within 24 hours
Administration	Chewable tablet	Chewable tablet

Choosing Between Nexgard and Nexgard Plus

The choice between Nexgard and Nexgard Plus depends on your dog's specific needs and your preferences as a pet owner. If your primary concern is flea and tick prevention, Nexgard may be sufficient. However, if you want to ensure your dog is protected from a broader range of parasites, including heartworm disease and intestinal worms, Nexgard Plus is the better option.

Consider the following factors when making your decision:

Your dog's exposure to different environments and potential parasites
Your dog's overall health and any existing medical conditions
Your budget and the cost of each product
Your veterinarian's recommendations

It's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before choosing a parasite prevention product. They can provide personalized advice based on your dog's health and lifestyle.

📝 Note: Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian or on the product packaging to ensure your dog receives the correct amount of medication.

Administration and Dosage

Both Nexgard and Nexgard Plus are available in chewable tablet form, making them easy to administer. The tablets are flavored to appeal to dogs, which can help ensure they take the medication willingly. The dosage is based on your dog's weight, so it's important to choose the correct strength for your dog's size.

Here are the general dosage guidelines for Nexgard and Nexgard Plus:

Small dogs (4-10 lbs): 28 mg afoxolaner
Medium dogs (10.1-24 lbs): 68 mg afoxolaner
Large dogs (24.1-60 lbs): 136 mg afoxolaner
Extra-large dogs (60.1 lbs and above): 272 mg afoxolaner

For Nexgard Plus, the dosage of milbemycin oxime is as follows:

Small dogs (4-10 lbs): 2.3 mg milbemycin oxime
Medium dogs (10.1-24 lbs): 5.75 mg milbemycin oxime
Large dogs (24.1-60 lbs): 11.5 mg milbemycin oxime
Extra-large dogs (60.1 lbs and above): 23 mg milbemycin oxime

It's important to administer the tablets as directed by your veterinarian. Typically, the tablets are given once a month. If you miss a dose, administer it as soon as possible and then resume the regular monthly schedule.

📝 Note: Do not give your dog more than the recommended dose. Overdosing can lead to adverse reactions and health issues.

Potential Side Effects

Both Nexgard and Nexgard Plus are generally well-tolerated by dogs, but like any medication, they can cause side effects in some animals. Common side effects include:

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Lethargy
Decreased appetite
Itching or redness at the site of administration

More serious side effects, although rare, can include:

Seizures
Allergic reactions
Changes in behavior

If you notice any of these side effects or if your dog's condition worsens, contact your veterinarian immediately. It's important to monitor your dog for any adverse reactions, especially when starting a new medication.

📝 Note: Always keep the product packaging and any instructions provided by your veterinarian for reference in case of an emergency.

Conclusion

In summary, both Nexgard and Nexgard Plus are effective options for flea and tick prevention in dogs. Nexgard provides targeted protection against fleas and ticks, while Nexgard Plus offers broader protection, including heartworm disease and intestinal parasites. The choice between Nexgard vs Nexgard Plus depends on your dog’s specific needs and your preferences as a pet owner. Consulting with your veterinarian can help you make an informed decision and ensure your dog receives the best possible care.

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