Two names often stand out when it comes to protecting your dog from harmful parasites like heartworms, fleas, and intestinal worms: Heartgard Plus and Revolution. Veterinarians and pet owners trust them, but they serve slightly different purposes. Selecting the best product for your dog relies on factors like your dog’s daily routine, specific health requirements, and the climate in your area.

This article explores Heartgard Plus and Revolution by examining their modes of action, the parasites they target, how they are administered, and their main advantages and disadvantages — all to help you determine the best choice for your dog.

What Is Heartgard Plus?

Heartgard Plus is a monthly chewable that protects dogs from heartworm disease and treats and controls roundworms and hookworms. It contains ivermectin and pyrantel — two active ingredients that kill parasites before they cause serious health issues.

How It Works:

• Ivermectin kills heartworm larvae in the bloodstream before they mature into adult worms.
• Pyrantel paralyzes and eliminates intestinal parasites like roundworms and hookworms.

Key Benefits:

• Tasty beef-flavored chew that most dogs eat like a treat
• Provides essential protection against deadly heartworms
• It helps prevent intestinal worm infestations

Dosage Chart of Heartgard Plus Chewable

What Is Revolution?

Revolution is a topical (spot-on) treatment that offers broad-spectrum protection. It prevents heartworms, fleas, ear mites, sarcoptic mange, and even ticks in some versions, like Revolution Plus (for cats) or Revolution for dogs.

It contains selamectin, which is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream and affects a wide range of internal and external parasites.

Key Benefits:

• One solution for heartworms, fleas, and other pests
• Simple once-a-month topical application
• Waterproof after 2 hours

Dosage Chart of Revolution For Dogs

Key Differences Between Heartgard Plus and Revolution

Let’s break down the core differences to make your decision easier.

Feature
Form	Chewable tablet	Topical (applied to the skin)
Active Ingredients	Ivermectin & Pyrantel	Selamectin
Heartworm Prevention
Flea Control
Tick Protection		(varies by product version)
Intestinal Worms	Roundworms & Hookworms
Ear Mites / Mange / Lice
Ease of Administration	Tasty chew	Spot-on (may need drying time)
Puppy Use	6 weeks and older	6 weeks and older

Which One Is Best for Your Dog?

The answer depends on your dog’s needs and where you live. Let’s look at a few scenarios:

✅ Choose Heartgard Plus if:

• You want strong protection against intestinal worms like roundworms and hookworms.
• Your dog doesn’t have flea or mite problems, or you’re using a separate flea treatment.
• Your pet prefers a chewable over topical treatments.

✅ Choose Revolution if:

• You want all-in-one protection, especially against fleas, mites, and mange.
• You live in a flea-prone or warmer climate.
• Your dog has sensitive digestion and may not tolerate oral medications well.

Some pet parents even use Heartgard Plus for heartworm and intestinal worms, and another flea/tick topical for full coverage. However, it's important to check with your veterinarian before using multiple products together.

Safety and Side Effects

Both Heartgard Plus and Revolution are FDA-approved and considered safe for most dogs. However, mild side effects can occur:

• Heartgard Plus: Occasional vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.
• Revolution: Temporary hair loss at the application site, skin irritation, or mild digestive upset.

Always follow dosage instructions and discuss any reactions with your veterinarian.

Cost Comparison

Cost is another factor to consider:

• Heartgard Plus is generally more affordable than Revolution, especially if you use it just for heartworms and worms.
• Revolution is slightly more expensive but laces multiple products, making it cost-effective if your dog needs flea, mite, and worm prevention in one.

Buying in larger packs (6 or 12 months) online often saves money. Both medications can be found at discounted rates from trusted pet pharmacies.

Final Thoughts

There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but here's a quick summary:

• Heartgard Plus is reliable and affordable for basic protection (heartworm + intestinal worms).
• Revolution is a great all-in-one solution for broad-spectrum protection (fleas, mites, mange, and heartworms).

Whichever you choose, consistent monthly prevention is key to keeping your dog safe and healthy. Consult your veterinarian to get tailored guidance based on your dog’s lifestyle and potential risk factors.