Protecting dogs against the relentless threat of fleas and ticks is of utmost priority for all the pet parents out there. However, choosing the treatment isn’t just a matter of preference; it’s a matter of health, comfort, and peace of mind.
With so many treatments available in the market, pet parents often find themselves torn among options. To help simplify your search a little, we’ll compare two trusted names in parasite protection:
- Nexgard Chewable
- Frontline Plus Topical
In this comparison blog, we’ll break down the similarities and differences between these two treatments, covering all the aspects. Having this information will help you make an informed decision.
Let’s dive into the details and find out which treatment truly ticks all the boxes.
Understanding the Contenders: Product Overview
Before we dive deep into the similarities and differences, let’s take a quick stroll through the fundamentals of these potent flea and tick treatments.
Nexgard Chewable
Nexgard Chewable is an oral flea and tick treatment formulated for puppies and dogs from 8 weeks of age and weighing at least 4 lbs. These highly palatable, beef-flavored chewables contain Afoxolaner as the active ingredient, which covers fleas and multiple ticks.
This monthly treatment kills adult fleas and is indicated for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations. Plus, it treats and controls tick infestations caused by black-legged ticks, American dog ticks, lone star ticks, brown dog ticks, and long-horned ticks. It also helps in the prevention of Lyme disease by killing black-legged ticks.
Frontline Plus
Frontline Plus is a potent topical flea and tick treatment for dogs and puppies from 8 weeks of age and weighing at least 5 lbs. Containing Fipronil and (S)-Methoprene as the active ingredients, this monthly topical kills all stages of fleas, including adult fleas, pupae, and larvae, and prevents flea infestations.
Moreover, it treats and controls all life stages of ticks, including brown dog ticks, American dog ticks, lone star ticks, and deer ticks. Suitable for breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs, it covers chewing lice and sarcoptic mange mites. Plus, it also kills ticks that may transmit Lyme disease.
Similarities Between Nexgard Chewables and Frontline Plus
The following factors highlight the similarities between Nexgard and Frontline Plus:
1. Flea Protection:
Both of these treatments kill adult fleas and are indicated for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations.
2. Common Tick Species:
Both Nexgard and Frontline Plus offer potent protection against brown dog ticks, American dog ticks, Lone Star ticks, and black-legged ticks (deer ticks).
[Also Read] 7 Common Ticks Found on Dogs and Cats
3. Dosage:
They both are given monthly and offer one month of protection against parasites.
5 Key Differences Between Nexgard Chewables and Frontline Plus
The following are the aspects that set the effectiveness of these two treatments apart:
1. Mode of Administration:
The primary difference between them is their mode of administration. While Frontline Plus is administered topically, Nexgard chewable is given orally.
2. Tick Species:
Nexgard Chewables treats and controls Long-horned ticks, which Frontline Plus does not cover.
3. Other Parasites:
Frontline Plus covers chewing lice and sarcoptic mange mites that Nexgard Chewables don’t.
4. Suitable for:
Frontline Plus is recommended for dogs and puppies from 8 weeks of age, weighing at least 5 lbs. On the other hand, Nexgard Chewables is recommended for dogs and puppies from 8 weeks of age and older, weighing at least 4 lbs.
5. Safety:
Frontline Plus is approved for safe use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs. However, the safe use of Nexgard Chewables in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs has not been evaluated.
Nexgard vs. Frontline Plus – Comparison Table
The following comparison table will provide you with an objective look at these two treatments:
Parting Words
Well, with this comparison between Nexgard Chewable and Frontline Plus, you can see these treatments are very capable and come very close in their effectiveness. But which one should you select for your canine companion? Don’t pull your hair; we’ll help you out.
For starters, both of them will do a fine job at protecting against fleas. However, there’s a slight difference in tick coverage, as Nexgard Chewables cover long-horned ticks, which Frontline Plus does not. Moreover, if your list of concerns includes sarcoptic mange and chewing lice, then Frontline Plus is your ideal option. Lastly, consider your pet’s preference for topical and oral treatment and select a suitable option.
Keeping in mind these points will help you select the right treatment, but always remember to consult with your vet in case of any doubt. They will give professional advice aligning with your dog’s specific condition.
