NexGard Plus vs NexGard Spectra: Which Parasite Treatment is Right for Your Dog in 2025?
Dogs face daily threats from internal and external parasites—fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms are more than just nuisances. Left untreated, these pests can lead to serious, sometimes fatal health conditions. Fortunately, leading veterinary pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim has created two powerful solutions: NexGard Plus and NexGard Spectra.
But how do these two treatments differ? Which is more suited for your dog’s lifestyle, breed, or parasite risk level?
In this guide, we’ll compare NexGard Plus and NexGard Spectra in depth, highlighting their similarities, key differences, ingredient profiles, and expert recommendations to help you make an informed choice.
Quick Overview: NexGard Plus Vs. NexGard Spectra:
NexGard Plus for Dogs
- Form: Beef-flavored monthly chewable
- Approved Age/Weight: Dogs and puppies 8 weeks+, 4 lbs+
- Parasites Covered:
- Fleas (kills adult fleas)
- Ticks: black-legged, brown dog, American dog, lone star, longhorned
- Heartworms (prevents disease)
- Intestinal worms: roundworms and hookworms
- Active Ingredients:
- Afoxolaner (flea/tick killer)
- Moxidectin (heartworm preventive)
- Pyrantel (dewormer)
NexGard Spectra for Dogs
- Form: Palatable monthly chewable
- Approved Age/Weight: Dogs and puppies 8 weeks+, 4.4 lbs+
- Parasites Covered:
- Fleas (kills adults, prevents flea tapeworm)
- Ticks: brown dog, bush tick
- Heartworms
- Intestinal worms: roundworms, hookworms, whipworms
- Mites: mange (sarcoptic), ear mites
- Controls flea allergy dermatitis
- Active Ingredients:
- Afoxolaner
- Milbemycin oxime
Similarities Between NexGard Plus and NexGard Spectra
| Feature | NexGard Plus | NexGard Spectra |
|---|---|---|
| Oral chew, monthly dosing | ✅ | ✅ |
| Age requirement (8 weeks+) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Flea adulticide | ✅ | ✅ |
| Heartworm prevention | ✅ | ✅ |
| Roundworm & Hookworm control | ✅ | ✅ |
| Vet recommended | ✅ | ✅ |
Both chews contain Afoxolaner, a highly effective isoxazoline compound that targets fleas and ticks by hyper-stimulating their nervous system—resulting in death within hours.
Key Differences That Matter: Nexgard Plus vs Nexgard Spectra
| Category | NexGard Plus | NexGard Spectra |
|---|---|---|
| Tick species covered | Broader (5 species incl. lone star, longhorned) | Narrower (2 species, excludes lone star) |
| Worm coverage | Roundworms, Hookworms | Roundworms, Hookworms, Whipworms |
| External parasites | Fleas, Ticks | Fleas, Ticks, Mange, Ear Mites |
| Skin benefits | ❌ | Controls flea allergy dermatitis |
| Tapeworm control | ❌ | Prevents flea tapeworm infestation |
| Safety in breeding dogs | Not evaluated | Approved for breeding/lactating/pregnant |
Use-Case Recommendations:
Choose NexGard Plus if:
- You live in areas where Lone Star or Longhorned ticks are prevalent (e.g., Southeastern USA).
- Your dog is at low risk of mite infestation.
- You prefer a product with FDA approval and broader U.S. focus (launched recently in the U.S. in 2023).
Choose NexGard Spectra if:
- Your dog is prone to skin conditions like flea allergy dermatitis.
- You’re concerned about mites, mange, or whipworms.
- You need a product that’s approved for use in breeding or pregnant dogs.
Expert Perspective
Veterinarians often base product recommendations on geographic risk factors and pet lifestyle. Dr. Emily Garcia, DVM, explains:
For dogs in wooded or tick-heavy areas, NexGard Plus may offer stronger tick control. But for dogs with recurring mange or tapeworm issues, Spectra delivers broader internal parasite coverage.
Safety, Side Effects & Warnings
- Afoxolaner can, in rare cases, cause vomiting, lethargy, or neurologic signs (tremors, ataxia).
- NexGard Spectra is generally better tested for breeding females.
- Always follow monthly dosage. Missing doses increases heartworm risk.
- Consult your vet before switching or combining treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I switch between NexGard Plus and NexGard Spectra?
Yes, but consult your vet to ensure no overlap or gap in protection, especially for heartworm prevention.
2. Are these chews suitable for toy breeds or senior dogs?
Yes, as long as the minimum weight and age are met. Always monitor for adverse reactions after first-time use.
3. Which is more affordable?
Prices may vary by provider. NexGard Plus is newer in the U.S. and may be priced competitively. Spectra is not yet available officially in all U.S. regions.
Conclusion: NexGard Plus or Spectra—The Better Choice Depends on Your Dog
Both NexGard Plus and NexGard Spectra are premium, vet-trusted parasiticides offering broad-spectrum protection. Your decision should be based on your dog’s parasite exposure, breed-specific sensitivity, lifestyle, and regional risk.
For broader tick control, go with NexGard Plus. For mite, mange, whipworm, and skin protection, choose NexGard Spectra.
When in doubt, consult your veterinarian—because your dog deserves personalized, effective care.
