Are NexGard Chewables for Dogs Safe?

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Spring and summer are prime times for fleas and ticks. As responsible dog owners, our job is to protect our dogs from these topical parasites that can potentially infect our dogs with dangerous and life-threatening diseases. Some owners decide to try NexGard chewables for dogs. It is entirely natural they want to know more about them before they use it. Here is a helpful review of the NexGard chewables.

What are NexGard chewables exactly?

The easiest way to describe NexGard chewables is this; it is a chewable flea and tick pill that will kill the parasites that get in contact with your dog. This is another product made by the company that makes Frontline, another flea and tick preventative that helps you keep your dog parasite-free.

How does it work?

NexGard chewables work as a medication that will not prevent fleas and ticks from infecting your dog. When a parasite bites your dog, the active ingredient (afoxolaner) overstimulates their central nervous system, which results in their death.

Is NexGard safe for dogs?

The most important question dog owners need to answer before they decide to use this product on their dog is, “Are NexGard chewables safe for my dog?” Generally speaking, the answer is - yes. Thousands of dog owners use this product on their pets as an effective way to prevent parasite infestations. However, using this product doesn’t come without its potential risks and side effects.

NexGard side effects

All products like NexGard rely on different pesticides and acaricides to kill fleas and ticks. Most dogs will have no issues with these ingredients. However, some dogs might get adverse reactions. Some of the most common side effects of this product are;

• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Itching
• Redness
• Diarrhea
• Seizures

Another thing dog breeders should know is that NexGard should not be used in pregnant or nursing bitches. The active ingredients in this product are not safe for puppies under 8 weeks, so they should avoid giving them to their dog.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: If you are considering using NexGard chewables, it would be best to talk to your vet first. If you want to prevent fleas and ticks from infecting your dog, there are safer ways to do it. NexGard might be an elegant solution, but you cannot be entirely sure whether it is safe for your dog. Talk to your vet and ask for their advice and opinion.

Word of caution about NexGard chewables

One thing you should be aware of if you want to use NexGard chewables for your dog - you are deliberately putting insecticides in your dog’s body. Mind you, the product should be safe for dogs, but our opinion is that you shouldn’t put toxins in your dog’s body when there are safer options. Flea and tick collars are our choice of parasite protection for our dogs.

How long does NexGard work?

If you want to use NexGard chewables for your dog, you should know how long they will protect your dog. Clinical studies found evidence of the medication in dogs 4 - 6 weeks after the initial administration. Dogs that have poor kidney and liver health can have traces of medication for much longer than that.

Is it effective?

One of the best things about NexGard is its effectiveness. After the first drug administration, owners reported a significant improvement. Within the first 8 hours, NexGard chewables will effectively eliminate 99,9% of parasites. However, some owners reported it took more than 24 hours for the drug to start working, but that is still a fascinating result.

Pros of using NexGard chewables

You might get the impression that using these chewables might be risky. However, the same is true for most medications in humans and dogs alike. Adverse reactions are possible, and no medication is 100% safe. However, NexGard brings significant advantages to the table. Some of the most significant advantages of this product are;

• The only product approved to prevent Lyme disease
• Effective against sarcoptic and demodectic mange
• Fast

How to administer it?

Another great thing about NexGard is its administration. Chewable pills are tasty to dogs, and most dogs have absolutely no problem gobbling them down. However, if your dog is very picky, you can hide the chewable in their usual kibble or dog treat. Dogs that can safely take NexGard should eat one chewable every month for complete protection.

Types of NexGard chewables

If you are interested in using NexGard to prevent fleas and ticks, you should know there are two types you can choose from. Before you do, make sure you spoke to your vet and ask for their advice. They can tell you whether NexGard chewables are a safe option for your dog individually. The two types of NexGard chewables are;

In conclusion

NexGard is an elegant and effective solution for tick and flea prevention. Some dogs can’t wear flea and tick collars because they have too thick coats, and this might be the best way to deal with the flea and tick issue. However, you should know that using NexGard chewables for your dog comes with certain risks.

You shouldn’t give this product to your dog without consulting your vet first. It would be best to talk to them and make sure your dog can safely take these chewables. Ultimately, the decision regarding this product will come down to you. Some dog owners are thrilled with it, and some have reported adverse reactions. You should know that the vast majority of dogs can use it safely.

World Dog Finder team