NexGard Plus vs Simparica Trio: Which is Right for Your Dog?
Keeping our dogs safe from parasites is a top priority for any pet parent. Dogs are at risk of contracting various parasites like fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms that threaten their health and comfort. Fortunately, today’s veterinary market offers all-in-one parasite preventatives, making it easy for dog owners to keep their furry friends protected year-round. Two of the most popular treatments are NexGard Plus vs Simparica Trio. Both are monthly chewable tablets that provide comprehensive protection against multiple types of parasites. But which one is the right choice for your dog? In this article, we’ll dive deep into NexGard Plus vs Simparica Trio, comparing their benefits, features, and unique differences, so you can make an informed choice.
Understanding the Basics: NexGard Plus and Simparica Trio
NexGard Plus and Simparica Trio are both broad-spectrum, vet-recommended treatments designed to protect dogs from various internal and external parasites. Each product comes in the form of a tasty chewable, making it easy to administer to most dogs. These treatments are formulated to work for dogs as young as 8 weeks and weigh as little as a few pounds, ensuring protection can start early in a dog’s life. Monthly administration keeps the protection steady and prevents the infestation of parasites, keeping your dog healthy and happy.
What is NexGard Plus?
NexGard Plus is a well-rounded, palatable treatment that targets a wide array of parasites. Using afoxolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel, NexGard Plus provides protection against fleas, multiple tick species, heartworms, and a range of intestinal worms, including roundworms and hookworms. This beef-flavored chew is ideal for pet parents looking to give their dogs full protection from external and internal threats without the fuss of topical treatments.
What is Simparica Trio?
Simparica Trio is another powerful monthly treatment that covers various parasites with broad-spectrum protection. Simparica Trio is formulated with three active ingredients: sarolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel. This liver-flavored chewable is highly effective at preventing fleas, ticks, heartworms, and a selection of intestinal worms, including roundworms and hookworms. Simparica Trio offers a comprehensive solution, particularly suitable for dogs in areas where tick-borne diseases are common, due to its strong tick control component.
NexGard Plus vs Simparica Trio Similarities
When comparing NexGard Plus vs Simparica Trio, it’s evident they share some significant similarities. Both are designed for convenience, administered as a monthly chew that covers multiple parasites. They are each effective at protecting dogs against fleas, ticks, heartworms, and certain intestinal worms. This similarity makes both products an excellent choice for dogs that need all-around protection without the hassle of combining multiple products.
One of the most important commonalities between NexGard Plus and Simparica Trio is the age and weight requirement. Both products can be used on puppies as young as 8 weeks old, provided they meet the minimum weight criteria. This means that as early as two months of age, puppies can start receiving reliable protection against harmful parasites.
NexGard Plus vs Simparica Trio: What Sets Them Apart?
Although NexGard Plus vs Simparica Trio share many attributes, there are distinct differences between the two that can make one option more suitable than the other for certain dogs. One primary difference lies in their active ingredients and the specific parasites each product targets.
In terms of tick protection, Simparica Trio has an advantage. While both products protect against American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, and Lone Star ticks, Simparica Trio also protects against Gulf Coast ticks, a tick species known for carrying certain diseases. Simparica Trio’s ingredient sarolaner is particularly effective against black-legged ticks, a common tick species responsible for Lyme disease. For dogs living in areas where Lyme disease is a concern, this added layer of protection might make Simparica Trio the preferred choice.
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NexGard Plus has a slight edge over Simparica Trio in intestinal parasite control. It treats three types of hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum, Ancylostoma braziliense, and Uncinaria stenocephala), while Simparica Trio covers only two. For areas where Ancylostoma braziliense hookworms are common, this broader coverage could be beneficial.
Additionally, there are flavor differences between the two. NexGard Plus comes in a beef flavor, which may appeal more to some dogs, while Simparica Trio offers a liver flavor. These subtle differences can matter, especially if your dog is particular about flavors.
| Feature | NexGard Plus | Simparica Trio |
| Age Requirement | 8 weeks or older | 8 weeks or older |
| Weight Requirement | 4 lbs (1.35 kg) or more | 2.8 lbs (1.25 kg) or more |
| Key Ingredients | Afoxolaner, Moxidectin, Pyrantel | Sarolaner, Moxidectin, Pyrantel |
| Tick Coverage | American dog tick, black-legged tick, Lone Star tick, brown dog tick | American dog tick, black-legged tick, Lone Star tick, brown dog tick, Gulf Coast tick |
| Intestinal Parasites | Roundworms, hookworms (3 species) | Roundworms, hookworms (2 species, including immature stages) |
| Flavors | Beef | Liver |
| Protection Period | 30 days | 30 days |
Choosing the Right Product: NexGard Plus vs Simparica Trio
When it comes to choosing between NexGard Plus vs Simparica Trio, there are a few considerations that could make a big difference. If your dog lives in an area with a high risk of tick-borne diseases, particularly Lyme disease, Simparica Trio might be the better option due to its specialized tick protection. For dog owners who prioritize broad intestinal parasite control, particularly against additional hookworm species, NexGard Plus provides an edge.
The size and weight of your dog may also be a factor. NexGard Plus requires a minimum weight of 4 pounds, whereas Simparica Trio can be administered to dogs weighing as little as 2.8 pounds. This difference might make Simparica Trio a more accessible option for very small breeds or puppies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NexGard Plus or Simparica Trio safer for puppies?
Both NexGard Plus and Simparica Trio are approved for puppies as young as 8 weeks. Always consult a veterinarian before starting either treatment, especially for puppies with health concerns.
How do NexGard Plus and Simparica Trio protect against heartworm?
Both products contain ingredients that prevent heartworm by killing immature heartworm larvae. It’s crucial to administer the treatment monthly to maintain effective heartworm prevention.
Can NexGard Plus or Simparica Trio prevent Lyme disease?
Simparica Trio is specifically effective against black-legged ticks, which are known carriers of Lyme disease. While it doesn’t cure Lyme disease, it helps reduce the risk by controlling tick infestations.
What if my dog is picky about flavors?
If flavor is a concern, you may want to try both products to see which one your dog prefers. NexGard Plus offers a beef flavor, whereas Simparica Trio has a liver flavor.
Conclusion
In the debate between NexGard Plus vs Simparica Trio, both products provide powerful protection against a wide range of parasites, helping to safeguard your dog’s health and happiness. Each has its strengths, making it essential to evaluate your dog’s specific needs and environment before making a decision. For enhanced tick protection, especially in areas where Lyme disease is prevalent, Simparica Trio might be the best choice. If broader intestinal parasite protection is a priority, NexGard Plus could be more suitable.
Remember, while both NexGard Plus and Simparica Trio are excellent choices, consulting with a veterinarian is the best way to ensure you’re choosing the ideal product for your dog’s health and lifestyle. Ultimately, either product can provide reliable protection, offering peace of mind for pet parents and a healthier, happier life for your dog.
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