As a loving dog owner, protecting your best friend from the misery of fleas and the dangers of ticks is a top priority. But when you walk into the pet aisle or browse online, the choices can be overwhelming. Two of the biggest names in the ring are NexGard and Frontline. Both are trusted by vets and used by millions, but they work in very different ways.
So, which one deserves the title of “champion” for your dog?
This head-to-head comparison will break down everything you need to know about NexGard and Frontline Plus—from how they’re applied to what they kill—so you can make the best choice with confidence and get back to enjoying a happy, pest-free life with your pooch.
The Contenders: A Quick Introduction
NexGard: The Powerful Chewable
NexGard is a newer-generation flea and tick treatment that comes in the form of a soft, beef-flavored chew. It’s an oral medication, meaning your dog eats it like a treat. It’s known for its fast action and for being a mess-free alternative to topical treatments.
Frontline Plus: The Trusted Topical
Frontline Plus is a classic, vet-trusted topical solution. It comes in a small vial and is applied directly to the skin on your dog’s back. Its formula is designed not only to kill adult fleas and ticks but also to break the flea life cycle, offering comprehensive protection.
Head-to-Head Battle: NexGard vs. Frontline Plus
Let’s see how these two heavyweights stack up in the categories that matter most to you and your dog.
1. Method of Application
- NexGard: A simple, monthly chewable tablet. Dogs usually see it as a treat, making administration incredibly easy and clean. There’s no greasy residue, no drying time, and no need to keep your dog separated from children or other pets after treatment.
- Frontline Plus: A topical liquid applied between your dog’s shoulder blades. You must part the fur and apply it directly to the skin. You’ll need to avoid bathing your dog or letting them swim for 24-48 hours after application.
Verdict: For pure convenience and a mess-free experience, NexGard takes the round.
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2. Speed of Action
- NexGard: Gets to work very quickly. It starts killing fleas within just 4 hours of administration and achieves over 99% effectiveness within 8 hours.
- Frontline Plus: Starts killing fleas within 4-12 hours and eliminates 100% of adult fleas within 24 hours.
Verdict: Both are fast, but NexGard has a slight edge on how quickly it begins killing fleas, offering faster relief for an infested dog.
3. What Pests Do They Kill?
This is where the differences become crucial.
- NexGard (Active Ingredient: Afoxolaner):
- Kills adult fleas (preventing them from laying eggs).
- Kills four types of ticks, including the Deer Tick which can transmit Lyme disease.
- Frontline Plus (Active Ingredients: Fipronil, (S)-methoprene):
- Kills adult fleas.
- Kills ticks (including those that carry Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis).
- Crucially, it also kills flea eggs and larvae, which breaks the entire flea life cycle and helps prevent re-infestation from your home environment.
- Kills chewing lice.
Verdict: For broader-spectrum pest control that actively stops the next generation of fleas, Frontline Plus is the clear winner.
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4. Waterproof Factor
- NexGard: As an oral medication, NexGard is 100% waterproof from the moment your dog eats it. You can bathe your dog, let them swim, or walk in the rain immediately without any impact on its effectiveness.
- Frontline Plus: Is considered waterproof, but you must wait 24-48 hours after application before your dog can get wet to ensure the product has been fully absorbed.
Verdict: For active dogs that love the water or need frequent baths, NexGard offers unbeatable convenience.
At-a-Glance Comparison Chart
Feature | NexGard | Frontline Plus |
---|---|---|
Application Type | Oral Chewable Tablet | Topical Liquid |
Mess-Free? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No, can be oily |
Speed (Fleas) | Starts killing in 4 hours | Starts killing in 4-12 hours |
Kills Adult Fleas? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Kills Flea Eggs & Larvae? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Kills Ticks? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Kills Chewing Lice? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Waterproof? | ✅ Yes, immediately | ✅ Yes, after 24-48 hrs |
Monthly Dose? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
There’s no single winner for every dog. The best choice depends on your lifestyle, your dog’s needs, and what you’re trying to prevent.
🏆 Choose NexGard If:
- You want a no-mess, easy-to-administer solution.
- Your dog loves to swim or needs frequent bathing.
- You have small children and want to avoid any topical residue.
- Your primary concern is killing adult fleas and ticks FAST.
🏆 Choose Frontline Plus If:
- You are dealing with a flea infestation and need to break the life cycle in your home.
- You want the broadest protection that includes flea eggs, larvae, and chewing lice.
- Your dog is picky and won’t reliably take a chewable tablet.
- You’re looking for a time-tested formula with a long history of safety and effectiveness.
Make Your Choice and Protect Your Pet Today!
Whether you choose the fast-acting convenience of NexGard or the comprehensive protection of Frontline Plus, you are making a great decision to safeguard your dog’s health. Both of these top-rated treatments are essential tools in the fight against dangerous pests.
Ready to give your dog the protection they deserve? Head over to CanadaPetCare.com for incredible prices on both NexGard and Frontline Plus, delivered right to your door.
➡️ Shop NexGard for Dogs at CanadaPetCare.com
➡️ Shop Frontline Plus for Dogs at CanadaPetCare.com
Disclaimer: PetMedClub.com provides information and resources for pet owners. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new medication for your pet to ensure it is the right choice for their specific health needs.