Bravecto vs NexGard? (2026 Comparison)

The Short Answer

If your dog is healthy and over 6 months old, Bravecto is the better value and convenience choice. One chew covers you for nearly three months, reducing the chance of missing a dose. It is also the only oral preventative approved for pregnant and breeding dogs.

However, if you have a puppy under 6 months, NexGard is your only oral choice between the two. Both drugs use the same class of pesticide (isoxazolines) and carry the same FDA warning for seizures. If your dog has a history of seizures or tremors, you should avoid both and look for non-systemic alternatives like Safest Flea Treatment.

Why This Matters

Fleas and ticks aren't just gross; they carry diseases like Lyme and Ehrlichiosis. But the "cure" involves feeding your dog a pesticide that stays in their bloodstream for weeks. Both Bravecto and NexGard work by poisoning your dog's blood so that parasites die when they bite.

The active ingredients—Fluralaner (Bravecto) and Afoxolaner (NexGard)—are part of the isoxazoline class. In 2018, the FDA issued a warning that these drugs are linked to neurological adverse events including muscle tremors, ataxia, and seizures. While rare, these side effects can happen in dogs with no prior history.

What's Actually In Them

Both products rely on powerful synthetic insecticides.

• Fluralaner (Bravecto) — Stays in the system for 12 weeks. It starts killing fleas within 2 hours and ticks within 12 hours. Because it lasts longer, the initial dose concentration is higher than a monthly pill.
• Afoxolaner (NexGard) — Stays in the system for 1 month. It kills fleas within 4-24 hours. It requires strict monthly compliance to avoid protection gaps.
• Hydrolyzed Soy/Corn (Flavoring) — Both use artificial meat flavorings (pork or beef) to make the chews palatable. These are generally safe for allergic dogs, but check with your vet if your dog has severe food allergies. Dog Food Ingredients To Avoid

What to Look For

Green Flags:

• Convenience: Bravecto's 12-week window means you only think about fleas 4 times a year.
• Speed: Bravecto kills fleas in 2 hours; NexGard takes up to 24.
• Puppy Safety: NexGard is safe for puppies as small as 4 lbs and 8 weeks old.

Red Flags:

• Seizure History: If your dog has ever had a seizure, do not use these.
• Stomach Upset: Vomiting and diarrhea are the most common side effects. NexGard has a slightly higher reported rate of vomiting (8-10%) compared to Bravecto (5-7%).
• Lyme Prevention: Only Bravecto kills the specific tick species fast enough to reliably prevent Lyme transmission in all cases, though NexGard is also FDA-approved to prevent Lyme infections.

The Comparison

The Bottom Line

1. Choose Bravecto if you have an adult dog (6+ months) and want to save money and hassle. It’s cheaper annually and requires less remembering.

2. Choose NexGard if you have a growing puppy (8 weeks - 6 months). It is the standard for young dogs.

3. Avoid Both if your dog has a history of seizures, tremors, or severe neurological issues. Opt for natural repellents or topical options that don't enter the bloodstream as aggressively.

FAQ

Does Bravecto cause more seizures than NexGard?

No data suggests one causes more seizures than the other. Both trigger the same FDA warning for the isoxazoline class. If your dog reacts to one, they will likely react to the other.

Can I give Bravecto to a 4-month-old puppy?

No. Bravecto is only approved for dogs 6 months and older. For a 4-month-old puppy, NexGard is the safe choice.

Which is cheaper?

Bravecto is cheaper. While one box costs more ($60-$80), it lasts 3 months. NexGard costs about $30 per dose. Over a year, Bravecto saves you roughly $40-$60.

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