NexGard Spectra for dogs 7.5–15 kg, 3 tablets is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic from Boehringer Ingelheim. Each tablet has two active ingredients: afoxolaner kills fleas and ticks, and milbemycin oxime kills roundworms, including heartworm (Dirofilaria). It's given once a month with or after a meal, and starts working in about 30 minutes. A pack of 3 tablets gives one dog 3 months of protection.
What it is and who makes it
NexGard Spectra is made by the international company Boehringer Ingelheim, which also makes NexGard and Frontline. Regular NexGard only protects against fleas and ticks; Spectra adds milbemycin against worms, so one monthly tablet replaces two products. More on the basic version in our NexGard review.
NexGard or NexGard Spectra
| NexGard | NexGard Spectra | |
|---|---|---|
| Fleas and ticks | Yes | Yes |
| Roundworms | No | Yes |
| Heartworm (Dirofilaria) | No | Yes |
| Tapeworms | No | No |
| Schedule | Monthly | Monthly |
How to give it
- Choose the tablet strictly by your dog's weight: this pack is for 7.5–15 kg.
- Give it once a month with or after a meal for better absorption.
- Most dogs eat the chew like a treat; if not, hide it in a piece of food.
- Don't use in puppies under 8 weeks or under 2 kg.
- Mark the date in a calendar so you don't miss the next month.
Pros
- Three in one. Fleas, ticks and roundworms in one tablet.
- Heartworm prevention. Important in regions where heartworm occurs.
- Fast action. According to the manufacturer, within 30 minutes.
- No drops or smell. You can stroke, bathe and swim with your dog straight away.
- Once a month. A simple year-round schedule.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- No effect on tapeworms. Tapeworms, including flea tapeworm, need a praziquantel product.
- Ticks must bite. The tablet kills attached parasites, so still check your dog after walks.
- Strictly by weight. A growing puppy that moves into another weight band needs a different pack.
- Price. More expensive than separate products, but more convenient.
- Possible stomach upset. Occasionally vomiting or diarrhoea after dosing.
Why year-round protection matters
Ticks are active above +5 °C, and Ukraine has such days even in winter. Fleas live indoors all year. Worms are spread through soil, grass, raw meat and fleas themselves. That's why vets recommend monthly protection with no winter break. More in fleas and ticks in dogs and worms in cats and dogs: prevention.
If you find a tick
Remove the tick with a tick hook by twisting anticlockwise, and disinfect the bite. Watch your dog for 2–3 weeks: lethargy, refusing food, high temperature and dark urine are signs of babesiosis and need an urgent vet visit. To compare other tablets, see our Simparica review.
Who it suits
Dogs of 7.5–15 kg over 8 weeks old that need full monthly protection from fleas, ticks and worms, especially with walks in nature, travel and life in a house with a garden. Other weight bands and products are in parasite control.
Verdict
NexGard Spectra is convenient all-in-one protection: one tasty monthly tablet against fleas, ticks and roundworms, including heartworm. For tapeworms it's combined with praziquantel, and dogs should still be checked for ticks after walks.
What heartworm disease is
Dirofilaria are parasitic worms whose larvae are spread by mosquitoes. In dogs they can settle in the heart and pulmonary artery, or under the skin and in eye tissue. The disease develops slowly: coughing, breathlessness and tiring quickly on walks. It's hard to treat, so prevention during mosquito season and for a month afterwards is key. NexGard Spectra kills the larvae before they can grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should NexGard Spectra be given?
One tablet once a month.
From what age?
From 8 weeks and at least 2 kg.
Can it be given on an empty stomach?
It's better given with or after a meal.
Does it work on tapeworms?
No, they need a praziquantel product.
Can I bathe my dog after the tablet?
Yes, the tablet doesn't wash off — bathing and swimming don't affect protection.
How many tablets are in the pack?
3 tablets — 3 months for one dog of 7.5–15 kg.
