Introduction

When it comes to protecting your dog from parasites, two names often come up: NexGard Plus and NexGard Spectra. Veterinarians and pet parents worldwide trust both. But how do you choose between them? While both offer strong protection against fleas and ticks, significant differences exist in their target parasites and how they work.

This guide breaks down the differences between NexGard Plus and NexGard Spectra to help you decide which treatment best suits your dog’s needs.

What is NexGard Plus?

NexGard Plus is a broad-spectrum monthly chewable tablet designed to protect dogs from ticks, fleas, heartworms, and intestinal worms. It’s one of the newest additions to the NexGard family and is FDA-approved for dog use.

Active Ingredients:

• Afoxolaner – Kills fleas and ticks
• Moxidectin – Prevents heartworm disease
• Pyrantel – Treats and controls roundworms and hookworms

Protection Coverage:

• Fleas
• Ticks (Black-legged tick, Lone star tick, American dog tick, Brown dog tick)
• Heartworm disease
• Roundworms
• Hookworms

What is NexGard Spectra?

NexGard Spectra is a comprehensive, all-in-one parasite protection chewable widely used in many countries outside the US. It’s known for its broad parasite coverage and convenience of use.

Active Ingredients:

• Afoxolaner – Targets fleas and ticks
• Milbemycin Oxime – Protects against heartworms and intestinal worms

Protection Coverage:

• Fleas
• Ticks
• Heartworm disease
• Roundworms
• Hookworms
• Whipworms
• Mites (in some cases)

Key Differences Between NexGard Plus and NexGard Spectra

Which One Should You Choose?

The proper choice depends on your dog’s needs, location, and your vet’s recommendation.

Choose NexGard Plus if:

• You want effective coverage for heartworms, fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms.
• You prefer a trusted and newer formulation with FDA approval.

Choose NexGard Spectra if:

• You want extended coverage, including whipworms and possibly mites.
• You’re looking for an all-in-one monthly chewable with broad protection.

Safety and Side Effects

Both NexGard Plus and NexGard Spectra are generally well-tolerated in dogs. However, mild side effects may include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite

Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new parasite protection, especially if your dog has pre-existing health issues.

Final Thoughts

NexGard Plus and NexGard Spectra are highly effective, convenient, and vet-recommended. NexGard Plus is the best option if you are in the US and want a safe, FDA-approved treatment. If you’re outside the US and want a wider range of parasite control (including whipworms and mites), NexGard Spectra might be more suitable.

Whatever option you choose, giving your dog monthly doses without skipping is essential for reliable protection against harmful parasites.