NexGard vs NexGard Spectra NZ Guide
Choosing the right flea and worm treatment is essential to your dog’s wellbeing. In New Zealand, two popular options are NexGard and NexGard Spectra — both trusted by vets and pet owners. But which one is right for your dog?
While these treatments are often compared side-by-side, there are key differences New Zealand pet parents should know, especially when it comes to parasite coverage and local relevance. This guide clears up the confusion, so you can confidently protect your dog.
What Is NexGard?
NexGard is a monthly chewable flea and tick treatment for dogs. It contains the active ingredient afoxolaner, which starts killing fleas within 8 hours and ticks within 48 hours of administration. NexGard is known for being convenient, easy to give, and effective at managing external parasites.
It comes in a braised beef-flavoured chew that dogs love — but importantly, it does not contain actual beef. The flavour is created using soy protein, making it safe for dogs with beef sensitivities or allergies.
Best for: Dogs who only need flea and tick control, particularly during high-risk seasons like spring and summer.
What Is NexGard Spectra?
NexGard Spectra is an all-in-one parasite control chew. It builds on NexGard’s flea and tick protection by also treating and controlling intestinal worms (including roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm) and mites, which are a common concern in New Zealand.
It contains two active ingredients: afoxolaner (for fleas and ticks) and milbemycin oxime (for internal parasites and mites).
Like NexGard, Spectra is a tasty braised beef-flavoured chew made with soy protein — safe for dogs with beef allergies.
Best for: Pet parents seeking complete internal and external parasite coverage, especially for dogs who go to daycare, grooming facilities, or spend time outdoors.
How NexGard and NexGard Spectra Compare
To help you decide, here’s a summary of their main differences.
- Parasite Protection
- NexGard: Fleas and ticks
- NexGard Spectra: Fleas, ticks, mites, and intestinal worms
- Active Ingredients
- NexGard: Afoxolaner
- NexGard Spectra: Afoxolaner + Milbemycin Oxime
- Beef-Free Flavour
Both chews are flavoured with soy protein to create a braised beef taste that dogs enjoy, without triggering beef allergies.
- Administration
Both products are given monthly, with or without food, and are safe to use alongside most other medications.
Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Dog
Your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors will influence the right choice:
- Choose NexGard if your dog only needs flea and tick protection and is not at high risk of intestinal worms or mites.
- Choose NexGard Spectra if you want an all-in-one solution to cover fleas, ticks, worms, and mites with one chew.
- If your dog has skin issues, visits group environments, or frequently explores bushy or grassy areas, Spectra may be the better option.
- Always check with your vet if your dog is on other medications or has a history of allergies or sensitivities.
NexGard or NexGard Spectra?
Both treatments are effective and easy to use, but they serve slightly different needs. The main difference lies in the added mite and worm protection offered by NexGard Spectra.
For everyday flea and tick prevention, NexGard is a strong performer. But for broader coverage that fits the lifestyle of most Kiwi dogs, NexGard Spectra delivers better value and peace of mind.
Explore our full range of dog flea and worm treatments to find the best match for your pet.
