NexGard vs Frontline Plus
A detailed comparison of NexGard and Frontline Plus for dogs. Which is the better choice? We compare ingredients, dosing, price, and side effects.
NexGard
Monthly chewable flea and tick tablet for dogs. Contains afoxolaner, an isoxazoline that kills parasites through the bloodstream.
Frontline Plus
Monthly spot-on flea and tick treatment for dogs. A well-established product containing fipronil and (S)-methoprene that works on the skin surface.
Save on NexGard or Frontline Plus at a UK pharmacy
UK registered pharmacies dispense the same prescription medications as your vet, often for less. Ask your vet for a written prescription, then fill it online.
Affiliate links to The Pharm Pet Co., a UK registered veterinary pharmacy. We may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Always follow your vet's guidance on medication choice and dosing.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | NexGard | Frontline Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Afoxolaner | Fipronil + (S)-Methoprene |
| Form | Chewable tablet | Spot-on pipette |
| Frequency | Monthly | Monthly |
| Species | Dogs | Dogs |
| Price Range | £7–£15/month | £4–£10/month |
Key Differences
Administration
NexGard is an oral chewable; Frontline Plus is a spot-on applied to the skin.
Prescription status
NexGard is prescription-only (POM-V); Frontline Plus can be bought over the counter.
Flea resistance
There are growing reports of flea resistance to fipronil (Frontline); afoxolaner (NexGard) is newer with no known resistance.
Bathing/swimming
NexGard allows immediate bathing; Frontline requires a 48-hour wait.
Price
Frontline Plus is significantly cheaper, especially from online online retailers.
Pros & Cons
NexGard
Pros
- Oral tablet — no greasy residue on coat
- Can bathe or swim your dog immediately
- Very fast flea kill (within 8 hours)
- No risk of children or other pets contacting wet product
Cons
- Prescription only (POM-V) — must see a vet
- More expensive than Frontline
- Some dogs may refuse the tablet
- Isoxazoline class — rare neurological side effects reported
Frontline Plus
Pros
- Available without prescription (NFA-VPS)
- Cheaper and widely available in pet shops
- Long track record of safe use
- Kills flea eggs and larvae too (breaks the lifecycle)
Cons
- Spot-on application leaves coat greasy
- Must not bathe dog for 48 hours after application
- Growing reports of flea resistance to fipronil in some areas
- Children and other pets should avoid contact with application site
Compare Prices & Save
Both NexGard and Frontline Plus may be cheaper from a licensed online retailer than from your vet. Ask for a written prescription and compare prices.
Important: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your vet before starting, stopping, or switching your pet's medication. Prices shown are typical UK ranges and may vary by product size, weight band, and retailer.
Alternative options to consider
Retailers we earn a commission from. It costs you nothing and never changes what we show.
Flea & Tick Treatments for Dogs
Vet-strength flea and tick treatments at pharmacy prices. Frontline, Advocate, Bravecto, Nexgard and more.
Pet Flea Treatments at Pharmacy2U
Frontline, Advantage and own-brand flea treatments at pharmacy prices. Trusted UK pharmacy since 1999.
VetBox Flea & Worm Protection for Dogs
Vet-founded monthly parasite subscription. Flea, tick and worm protection delivered to your door. Founded by Dr Will Woodley, protecting 30,000+ pets.
We may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.