Is NexGard Safe for My Dog?
If you’ve ever looked into flea and tick prevention, you’ve likely come across NexGard—the popular chewable tablet trusted by many dog owners and veterinarians. But with so much information (and occasional concern) online, it’s natural to wonder: Is NexGard truly safe for my dog? The short answer is yes—for most dogs, when used as directed. However, like any medication, it’s not risk-free for every individual. Understanding how NexGard works, which dogs may need extra caution, and what side effects to watch for helps you make an informed, confident choice for your pet’s protection.
How NexGard Works to Protect Your Dog
NexGard contains afoxolaner, an isoxazoline-class parasiticide that targets the nervous systems of fleas and ticks. Once ingested, it begins working within hours and provides full-body protection for a full month. Unlike topical treatments, it works systemically—meaning your dog’s entire body becomes a hostile environment for parasites. Here’s what makes it effective:
- Rapid Flea Kill:
NexGard starts killing fleas within 4 hours and eliminates 100% of adult fleas within 24 hours—preventing egg laying and infestations. - Broad Tick Coverage:
It’s effective against multiple tick species, including the black-legged tick (Lyme disease carrier), American dog tick, Lone Star tick, and brown dog tick. - Oral Convenience:
As a beef-flavored chew, it’s easy to administer—no greasy residue, no bathing restrictions, and no risk of transfer to children or other pets. - Monthly Dosing Simplicity:
One dose lasts 30 days, making it easier to stay consistent compared to collars or sprays that degrade over time. - FDA-Approved and Widely Studied:
NexGard is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and backed by extensive clinical trials in thousands of dogs.
While highly effective, its systemic action means it circulates in your dog’s bloodstream—so safety depends on your dog’s individual health and history.
Common Side Effects Reported with NexGard
Most dogs tolerate NexGard well, but like any medication, side effects can occur. The majority are mild and short-lived, though awareness helps you respond quickly if needed:
- Gastrointestinal Upset:
Some dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite shortly after taking the chew—usually resolving within 24 hours. - Lethargy or Restlessness:
Temporary changes in energy levels, such as unusual tiredness or mild agitation, have been reported in a small percentage of dogs. - Itching or Skin Reactions:
Rarely, dogs may develop localized or generalized itching, redness, or hives—likely an allergic response to an ingredient. - Neurological Symptoms (Very Rare):
In isolated cases, dogs with preexisting seizure disorders have experienced tremors, ataxia, or seizures; the FDA notes this risk across the isoxazoline class. - Dry or Flaky Skin:
A minor dermatological change occasionally noted, though not typically serious.
Most side effects are self-limiting, but contact your vet if symptoms persist beyond 48 hours or worsen significantly.
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Benefits of NexGard | Important Safety Considerations |
|---|---|
Fast, full-month flea & tick protection | Not for dogs under 8 weeks or 4 lbs |
Easy-to-give oral chew | Use caution in dogs with seizure history |
No bathing or swimming restrictions | Monitor for vomiting within first 24 hours |
Proven efficacy against Lyme-carrying ticks | Avoid in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs unless advised |
FDA-approved with real-world safety data | Always use correct weight-based dosage |
Dogs That May Need Extra Caution with NexGard
While NexGard is safe for the general canine population, certain dogs require special evaluation before use. Their unique physiology or health status may increase risk, so always consult your veterinarian first:
- Puppies Under 8 Weeks Old:
NexGard is only approved for dogs 8 weeks and older and weighing at least 4 pounds—earlier use hasn’t been studied. - Dogs with a History of Seizures:
The isoxazoline class (including afoxolaner) has been linked to rare neurological events; use only under veterinary supervision if your dog has epilepsy. - Senior or Medically Fragile Dogs:
Older dogs or those with liver/kidney disease may metabolize medications differently—dose adjustments or alternatives may be needed. - Pregnant or Nursing Dogs:
Safety studies in breeding females are limited; most vets recommend avoiding unless flea/tick risk outweighs potential concerns. - Dogs on Other Medications:
While no major drug interactions are widely reported, always disclose all supplements or prescriptions to your vet beforehand.
When in doubt, your veterinarian can help weigh the risks of parasitic disease against the low—but real—potential for medication side effects.
How to Administer NexGard Safely and Effectively
Correct use maximizes protection and minimizes risk. Follow these guidelines to ensure NexGard works as intended while keeping your dog comfortable:
- Give with Food:
Administer the chew during or right after a meal to reduce the chance of stomach upset and improve absorption. - Use Exact Weight-Based Dose:
Never split chews or “round up” to the next size—under-dosing reduces efficacy; overdosing increases side effect risk. - Observe for 24 Hours:
Watch for vomiting—if it occurs within 2 hours, redose with a full tablet; if after 2 hours, absorption is likely complete. - Maintain Monthly Schedule:
Give NexGard on the same day each month, even in winter, as ticks can be active year-round in many regions. - Store Safely:
Keep chews in original packaging, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.
Consistency and precision are key—protection only works if the medication is given correctly every time.
Alternatives to NexGard If Safety Is a Concern
If NexGard isn’t the right fit for your dog, several effective alternatives exist—each with its own pros, cons, and safety profiles:
- Bravecto (Fluralaner):
Offers 12-week protection with a similar isoxazoline mechanism—but also carries a seizure warning for at-risk dogs. - Simparica (Sarolaner):
Another monthly oral chew in the same drug class; some dogs tolerate one isoxazoline better than another. - Seresto Collar:
A non-systemic option that repels and kills fleas/ticks for 8 months—ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or seizure history. - Topical Treatments (e.g., Frontline Plus):
Applied to the skin, these avoid systemic circulation but can be messy and less effective if the dog swims frequently. - Natural or Integrated Approaches:
While not as reliable, some owners combine frequent grooming, yard management, and vet-approved essential oil-free repellents for low-risk areas.
Discuss these options with your vet—they can tailor recommendations based on your dog’s health, lifestyle, and local parasite pressure.
What the FDA and Veterinary Experts Say About NexGard Safety
Regulatory bodies and veterinary professionals continually monitor NexGard’s safety through post-market surveillance. Their consensus remains clear: for the vast majority of dogs, benefits outweigh risks.
- FDA Monitoring:
The FDA has issued advisories about isoxazoline-class drugs and neurological events but emphasizes these are rare and often linked to preexisting conditions. - Veterinary Endorsement:
Major veterinary associations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), support NexGard as a safe, effective tool when used appropriately. - Real-World Data:
Millions of doses have been administered globally with a low incidence of serious adverse events—most reported issues are mild and transient. - Risk vs. Disease Prevention:
Untreated fleas cause anemia and tapeworms; ticks transmit Lyme, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis—diseases far more dangerous than medication side effects for most dogs. - Transparency in Labeling:
The product label clearly states contraindications and warnings, empowering owners to make informed choices with their vet.
Ongoing research and transparency help ensure NexGard remains a responsible choice in modern parasite prevention.
Frequently Asked Questions About NexGard Safety
Can NexGard cause seizures in dogs?
While rare, dogs with a history of seizures or neurological disorders may be at increased risk—consult your vet before use if your dog has such a history.
Is NexGard safe for small or toy breed dogs?
Yes, as long as they meet the minimum age (8 weeks) and weight (4 lbs) requirements and receive the correct dose for their size.
Can I give NexGard to my dog if they’re already on heartworm medication?
Yes—NexGard can be safely combined with heartworm preventives like Heartgard; many vets recommend “trifecta” protection (fleas, ticks, and heartworms).
What should I do if my dog vomits after taking NexGard?
If vomiting occurs within 2 hours, redose with a full tablet. If after 2 hours, the medication was likely absorbed—monitor and consult your vet if concerned.
Can NexGard be used year-round?
Yes—and it’s recommended in most regions, as ticks can be active whenever temperatures rise above freezing, even in winter.
Making an Informed Choice for Your Dog’s Well-Being
Choosing a flea and tick preventive is more than a routine chore—it’s an act of care that protects your dog from painful, even life-threatening diseases. NexGard offers powerful, convenient defense for millions of dogs worldwide, and for most, it’s both safe and highly effective. Still, every dog is unique. By understanding how NexGard works, recognizing which pets need extra caution, and partnering with your veterinarian, you can use this tool with confidence and peace of mind. In the end, the best preventive isn’t just the strongest—it’s the one that fits your dog’s health, your lifestyle, and your shared journey of trust and well-being.
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