NexGard by Boehringer Ingelheim is a beef-flavoured chewable for dogs that protects against fleas and ixodid ticks for a month. The active ingredient is afoxolaner, an isoxazoline. According to the manufacturer, it starts acting on fleas 30 minutes after dosing; fleas on the dog die within 6 hours and ticks within 48 hours. Give one tablet a month during parasite season, to puppies from 8 weeks and 2 kg. The XL strength is for dogs of 25–50 kg.
What it is and who makes it
NexGard is made by Boehringer Ingelheim, one of the largest veterinary drug makers (France per our catalogue). After dosing, afoxolaner is absorbed into the blood — peaking in 2–4 hours — and acts on parasites when they feed. So bathing and rain don't affect protection. Tablets come in four weight bands; our catalogue also has a pack of NexGard L for dogs of 10–25 kg.
Strengths
| Dog weight | Tablet | Afoxolaner |
|---|---|---|
| 2–4 kg | S | 11.3 mg |
| 4–10 kg | M | 28.3 mg |
| 10–25 kg | L | 68 mg |
| 25–50 kg | XL | 136 mg |
| Over 50 kg | Combination of tablets | Calculated by weight |
How to give it
- Weigh your dog and choose the tablet for its band — don't split large tablets.
- Give the tablet whole. Most dogs eat it willingly thanks to the beef flavour; if not, hide it in some food.
- Make sure your dog swallowed the whole tablet.
- Repeat monthly throughout tick season, and year-round in mild winters.
Pros
- Fast onset. According to the manufacturer, 30 minutes after dosing.
- Tasty tablet. Beef flavour — most dogs eat it without fuss.
- Doesn't wash off. Bathing and swimming don't reduce effectiveness.
- Nothing on the coat. Children can stroke the dog right after dosing.
- Four strengths. From small 2 kg dogs to large 50 kg dogs.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- The tick has to attach. The tablet doesn't repel ticks — check your dog after walks.
- Dogs only. Not for other species, including cats.
- No worm cover. Standard NexGard doesn't act on worms — there are separate products and the Spectra range for that.
- Restrictions. Not for sick or weak animals, puppies under 8 weeks or 2 kg; dogs with a history of seizures only after talking to a vet.
NexGard or Simparica
Both tablets belong to the isoxazoline class, both are monthly and protect against fleas and ticks. They differ in active ingredient (afoxolaner vs sarolaner), flavour and weight bands. The choice often comes down to which tablet your dog eats more happily and what your vet recommends. More on the other one in our Simparica review.
Who it suits
Dogs that walk a lot in forests and parks, swim or live with children, and owners who find drops and collars inconvenient. How to protect your dog year-round and treat the home for fleas is in fleas and ticks in dogs. All products are in parasite control.
Verdict
NexGard is convenient, fast flea and tick protection in one tasty monthly tablet. The key is choosing the right strength for your dog's weight and giving it regularly all season. Read the leaflet before the first dose, and talk to your vet if your dog has chronic health problems.
What to know about ticks
Ixodid ticks are active above +5 °C — in Ukraine usually from March to November, and longer in mild winters. The most dangerous disease they transmit to dogs is babesiosis. Signs: lethargy, refusing food, high temperature, dark urine. Even if your dog gets the tablet, with these symptoms after a walk it needs a vet urgently. Remove any tick you find with a tick hook by twisting it out, and watch your dog's health for 2–3 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does NexGard work?
According to the manufacturer, it starts acting on fleas within 30 minutes; fleas die within 6 hours and ticks within 48 hours.
How often should I give NexGard?
Once a month during flea and tick season.
From what age can puppies take NexGard?
From 8 weeks and 2 kg body weight.
Can I give NexGard to a cat?
No, it's for dogs only.
