When it comes to protecting your dog from heartworm, choosing the right prevention chew is essential. The best overall pick for 2026 is HEARTGARD Plus, known for its proven effectiveness and affordability. For those seeking additional protection against fleas and ticks, NexGard Plus offers a convenient soft chew with dual action. However, tradeoffs exist between price, ingredient quality, and ease of administration. Keep reading to see how these options stack up, so you can pick the best fit for your dog’s health and your budget.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked options balance proven effectiveness with ease of use, making daily administration straightforward.
- Price varies significantly, with some premium options offering additional protection or ingredients, but at a higher cost.
- Formulation differences matter — some chews combine heartworm prevention with flea and tick protection, which can simplify medication routines.
- Dog size and weight are critical factors, as many products are tailored to specific weight ranges, affecting dosage and efficacy.
- Long-term value depends on supply size and frequency of administration, influencing overall cost-effectiveness.
| HEARTGARD Plus (ivermectin/pyrantel) Chewables for Dogs up to 25 lbs, 6-Month Supply |  | Best Overall for Proven Effectiveness and Trust | Item Weight: 0.1 Pounds | Manufacturer: Boehringer Ingelheim | Model Name: Heartgard PLUS Chewables for Dogs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NexGard Plus Flea and Tick Protection & Heartworm Preventive for Dogs, Soft Beef Flavored Chewables, 66.1-132 lbs, 1 Month Supply |  | Best for Comprehensive Parasite Coverage | Active Ingredients: Afoxolaner, Moxidectin, Pyrantel | Weight Range: 66.1-132 lbs | Form: Soft chewables | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HEARTGARD® Plus (ivermectin/pyrantel) Chewables for Dogs 51-100 lbs, 6-Month Supply |  | Best for Larger Dogs in the 51-100 lbs Range | Brand: HEARTGARD® Plus | Weight Range: 51-100 lbs | Supply Duration: 6 months | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Interceptor Plus Heartworm and Worm Prevention for Dogs 8.1-25 lbs, 1 Chew (1-Month Supply) |  | Best for Small Dogs Needing Multi-Worm Protection | Dog Weight Range: 8.1-25 lbs | Quantity: 1 chew | Duration: 1 month | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TRI-HEART PLUS Chewable Tablet for Dogs, Up to 25 lbs, 6-Count |  | Best for Year-Round Protection in Small Dogs | Weight Limit: Up to 25 lbs | Quantity: 6 chewable tablets | Treatment Duration: 6 months | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HEARTGARD® Plus (ivermectin/pyrantel) Chewables for Dogs up to 25 lbs, 1-Month Supply |  | Best for Small Dogs Needing Trusted, Effective Protection | Active Ingredients: Ivermectin, Pyrantel | Weight Limit: Up to 25 lbs | Quantity: 1 Month Supply | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| heartworm prevention chew | Quantity | Active Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| HEARTGARD Plus | — | — |
| NexGard Plus Flea and Tick Pro | 1 chew (1 month supply) | Afoxolaner, Moxidectin, Pyrantel |
| HEARTGARD® Plus | — | ivermectin, pyrantel |
| Interceptor Plus Heartworm and | 1 chew | — |
| TRI-HEART PLUS Chewable Tablet | 6 chewable tablets | — |
| HEARTGARD® Plus | 1 Month Supply | Ivermectin, Pyrantel |
More Details on Our Top Picks
HEARTGARD Plus (ivermectin/pyrantel) Chewables for Dogs up to 25 lbs, 6-Month Supply
HEARTGARD Plus stands out for its longstanding reputation and proven track record in preventing heartworm disease. Compared with other options like TRI-HEART PLUS, it offers a reliable solution that is widely trusted by vets and pet owners alike. Its beef flavor makes administration easier, and its ability to treat common intestinal worms adds value. The main tradeoff is the need for monthly dosing, which can be inconvenient for some owners or dogs who reject pills. Despite this, its high efficacy and trusted brand status make it the top pick for those seeking a dependable, straightforward prevention method.
Pros:- Effective in preventing heartworm and treating intestinal worms
- Palatable beef flavor dogs love
- Easy to administer in various ways
- Trusted brand with high customer ratings
Cons:- Must be given monthly for continuous protection
- Some dogs may reject the chew or require redosing if dose is lost
Best for: Dog owners seeking a trusted, vet-recommended solution that balances efficacy and ease of use, especially those who prefer established brands.
Not ideal for: Owners with dogs that frequently reject pills or who prefer less frequent dosing options, as monthly administration may be a hassle.
- Item Weight:0.1 Pounds
- Manufacturer:Boehringer Ingelheim
- Model Name:Heartgard PLUS Chewables for Dogs
- Color:Blue
- Size:Up to 25 lbs
- Number of Items:6
- Directions:Remove one chewable from the foil-backed blister, offer by hand or mix with food, ensure full dose is consumed, redose if necessary, observe dog after administration.
Our verdict“This option is ideal for owners who prioritize proven efficacy and brand trust, and don’t mind monthly dosing.”
NexGard Plus Flea and Tick Protection & Heartworm Preventive for Dogs, Soft Beef Flavored Chewables, 66.1-132 lbs, 1 Month Supply
Compared with HEARTGARD Plus, NexGard Plus offers broader protection by tackling fleas and ticks alongside heartworm prevention. Its soft, beef-flavored chew makes administration straightforward, especially for owners who dislike pills. However, the need for monthly dosing remains a drawback, and the potential for adverse reactions in sensitive dogs should be considered. Its all-in-one approach is ideal for owners seeking simplicity and comprehensive coverage in a single monthly treat, but the higher price point and possible sensitivities mean it’s not universally suitable.
Pros:- Provides comprehensive protection including fleas, ticks, and heartworm
- Easy to administer soft chew form
- Effective against multiple parasite species
Cons:- Requires monthly dosing
- Potential for adverse reactions in sensitive dogs
- Price not specified
Best for: Dog owners wanting an all-in-one monthly chew that covers multiple parasites, including fleas, ticks, and heartworm.
Not ideal for: Owners with dogs prone to sensitivities or who prefer long-acting treatments, as it requires monthly administration and may cause reactions.
- Active Ingredients:Afoxolaner, Moxidectin, Pyrantel
- Weight Range:66.1-132 lbs
- Form:Soft chewables
- Quantity:1 chew (1 month supply)
Our verdict“Best suited for owners seeking a single, all-in-one solution for multiple parasite threats, accepting monthly dosing for convenience.”
HEARTGARD® Plus (ivermectin/pyrantel) Chewables for Dogs 51-100 lbs, 6-Month Supply
This larger-weight version of HEARTGARD Plus is designed specifically for dogs between 51 and 100 lbs, making it suitable for bigger breeds. It shares the same trusted efficacy as the smaller versions, with a delicious real-beef flavor that dogs enjoy, helping to facilitate monthly dosing. Compared to the 25-lb version, this product offers a longer supply—six months—reducing the frequency of dosing. The main tradeoff is the limited weight range and the requirement to remember to give a dose every month, which could be a challenge for busy owners.
Pros:- Effective prevention of heartworm, roundworms, and hookworms
- Delicious real-beef flavor dogs enjoy
- Six-month supply reduces dosing frequency
- Vet-recommended and trusted
Cons:- Limited to dogs 51-100 lbs
- Requires consistent monthly dosing
- Only suitable for specific weight ranges
Best for: Owners with medium to large dogs within the 51-100 lbs range who want a trusted, long-lasting prevention solution.
Not ideal for: Owners of dogs outside this weight range or those preferring quarterly or biannual dosing options, as this is strictly monthly and weight-specific.
- Brand:HEARTGARD® Plus
- Weight Range:51-100 lbs
- Supply Duration:6 months
- Active Ingredients:ivermectin, pyrantel
Our verdict“This product is ideal for owners of medium to large dogs seeking a reliable, long-duration prevention plan within the specified weight range.”
Interceptor Plus Heartworm and Worm Prevention for Dogs 8.1-25 lbs, 1 Chew (1-Month Supply)
Interceptor Plus excels for small dogs, offering a chicken-flavored chew that covers both heartworm prevention and multiple intestinal worms, including whipworms and tapeworms. Its broad spectrum of protection makes it a good choice for owners worried about various parasites. Compared with HEARTGARD Plus, it provides additional coverage against whipworms and tapeworms, though it requires monthly dosing and is limited to dogs 8.1-25 lbs. The flavor and ease of administration are definite advantages, but the strict weight range restricts its use.
Pros:- Provides comprehensive protection against multiple worms and heartworm
- Tasty, chicken-flavored chew dogs enjoy
- Easy monthly dosing
Cons:- Limited to dogs 8.1-25 lbs
- Requires regular monthly administration
- Not suitable for larger breeds
Best for: Owners of small dogs needing comprehensive intestinal worm coverage along with heartworm prevention.
Not ideal for: Owners with larger dogs or those seeking less frequent dosing options, since it is only formulated for small breeds and requires monthly administration.
- Dog Weight Range:8.1-25 lbs
- Quantity:1 chew
- Duration:1 month
- Flavor:Chicken
Our verdict“Ideal for owners of small dogs who want broad-spectrum parasite protection in a single monthly treat.”
TRI-HEART PLUS Chewable Tablet for Dogs, Up to 25 lbs, 6-Count
TRI-HEART PLUS offers a simple, beef-flavored tablet for small dogs, with a six-month supply that appeals to owners seeking long-term, year-round prevention. It covers heartworm, roundworms, and hookworms effectively, with the advantage of fewer doses needed compared to monthly options. This makes it ideal for owners who prefer less frequent dosing, but it still requires consistent administration over six months. Compared with HEARTGARD Plus, its longer supply reduces the risk of missed doses, yet it may be less flexible for owners who prefer monthly control or need to adjust doses for weight changes.
Pros:- Provides year-round protection with only 6 doses
- Beef-flavored tablets are easy to administer
- Safe for dogs up to 25 lbs
Cons:- Limited to small dogs up to 25 lbs
- Requires owner to remember to give doses every six months
- Less flexible if weight or health status changes
Best for: Small dog owners who want a semi-annual prevention plan and prefer fewer doses over the year.
Not ideal for: Pet owners who prefer monthly dosing or have dogs with weight fluctuations, since this is for a fixed six-month period and up to 25 lbs.
- Weight Limit:Up to 25 lbs
- Quantity:6 chewable tablets
- Treatment Duration:6 months
- Flavor:Beef
Our verdict“Best suited for small dog owners seeking a semi-annual prevention schedule with reliable coverage.”
HEARTGARD® Plus (ivermectin/pyrantel) Chewables for Dogs up to 25 lbs, 1-Month Supply
HEARTGARD® Plus stands out for its long-standing reputation among veterinarians as a reliable choice for heartworm prevention in small dogs. Its formulation with ivermectin and pyrantel ensures it also tackles common intestinal parasites, which makes it a practical all-in-one option for owners who want simplicity. Compared to NexGard Plus, which adds flea and tick prevention, HEARTGARD Plus focuses solely on worms and heartworm, making it a straightforward choice for owners who prefer targeted protection. Its real beef flavor helps ensure compliance, especially in dogs that are picky eaters, but the need for monthly dosing can be a hurdle for some pet owners. This product is less suitable for dogs over 25 lbs, limiting its versatility, and owners seeking longer-lasting options should look elsewhere.
Pros:- Veterinarian-recommended with a trusted brand history
- Effectively prevents heartworm and treats roundworms and hookworms
- Dogs enjoy the real beef flavor, aiding compliance
Cons:- Limited to dogs up to 25 lbs, requiring multiple products for larger pets
- Requires monthly administration, which can be easy to forget
Best for: Owners of small dogs up to 25 lbs who prioritize a trusted, proven product for heartworm and intestinal parasite prevention.
Not ideal for: Pet owners with larger dogs or those preferring combined flea, tick, and worm prevention in a single chew, since this product only covers worms and heartworm.
- Active Ingredients:Ivermectin, Pyrantel
- Weight Limit:Up to 25 lbs
- Quantity:1 Month Supply
- Form:Chewables
Our verdict“This pick is ideal for small dog owners seeking a straightforward, reputable heartworm and worm preventative, but it may not suit those wanting fewer doses or larger dog coverage.”
How We Picked
Our selection process focused on effectiveness, safety, ease of use, and value. We prioritized products that are widely recommended by veterinarians and have a proven track record in preventing heartworm. Ease of administration, such as flavor, size, and chewability, was also key to ensure pet compliance. We examined customer reviews for real-world performance, paying attention to reports of side effects or missed doses. The products are ranked based on a balance of efficacy, cost, and suitability for different dog sizes and owner preferences.| heartworm prevention chew | Active Ingredients |
|---|---|
| HEARTGARD Plus | — |
| NexGard Plus Flea and Tick Pro | Afoxolaner, Moxidectin, Pyrantel |
| HEARTGARD® Plus | ivermectin, pyrantel |
| Interceptor Plus Heartworm and | — |
| TRI-HEART PLUS Chewable Tablet | — |
| HEARTGARD® Plus | Ivermectin, Pyrantel |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Heartworm Prevention Chews
Choosing the right heartworm prevention chew involves considering several factors that go beyond just brand reputation. Understanding these will help you select a product that fits your dog’s needs and your lifestyle, ensuring consistent protection. From dosage accuracy to ingredient quality, each consideration impacts your pet’s health and your peace of mind.Dog Size and Weight
Many heartworm chews are designed for specific weight ranges, which affects dosage accuracy and effectiveness. Using a product meant for a different size can reduce efficacy or cause side effects. Always measure your dog’s weight carefully and select a product that matches this weight to ensure optimal protection.Combination Protection
Some chews combine heartworm prevention with flea and tick control, offering a more comprehensive approach in a single dose. This convenience can simplify your pet’s medication routine, but it also means you need to consider if your dog needs protection from all these pests. Be aware that combination products may have different ingredient profiles and potential side effects.Ingredient Quality and Safety
Quality ingredients and proven safety profiles are critical, especially for dogs with sensitivities or allergies. Chews with natural flavors and fewer fillers tend to be gentler. Always review the active ingredients and consult with your vet if your dog has special health considerations.Cost and Supply Length
Long-term prevention can add up, so consider the cost per dose and supply size. Some products offer multi-month supplies which can be more economical, but they also require a larger upfront investment. Balance affordability with the need for consistent, reliable protection.Ease of Administration
Palatable flavors, small size, and soft texture help ensure your dog accepts the chew. If your pet is picky or has dental issues, these factors become even more important. Choosing a product that your dog enjoys makes daily prevention easier and more reliable.Veterinary Recommendations
Always check that the product is recommended or approved by veterinarians. Vet-approved products tend to have rigorous testing and proven efficacy, reducing the risk of ineffective protection or adverse reactions. Regular vet consultations can also help tailor your choice to your dog’s specific health needs.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I give my dog a different brand than what my vet recommends?
While many brands are effective, sticking with your veterinarian’s recommendation ensures your dog receives a product tested and proven for its specific health profile. Different brands may have varying active ingredients and formulations, which can influence effectiveness and safety. If you want to switch brands, consult your vet first to avoid gaps in protection or unwanted side effects.
How do I know if my dog is allergic to a heartworm chew?
Signs of an allergic reaction can include itching, swelling, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you notice any of these symptoms after administering a chew, stop giving it immediately and contact your vet. To minimize risks, review the ingredient list carefully and consider conducting a small test dose initially, especially if your dog has known sensitivities.
Is it safe to give heartworm chews with other medications?
Most heartworm chews are formulated to be safe with common medications, but drug interactions can occur. Always inform your vet about any other treatments or supplements your dog is on. They can advise on safe timing and whether any adjustments are necessary to prevent adverse interactions.
How long before my dog is protected after starting a new heartworm chew?
Protection typically begins within a month of consistent administration, but it’s best to follow the specific product’s instructions. Your vet can advise whether additional protection is needed during the initial period. Regular dosing without missed days is essential to maintain effective prevention.
Are chewable heartworm preventives effective all year round?
Most products are designed for monthly use, making year-round prevention straightforward. In regions with year-round mosquito activity, continuous prevention is recommended. For seasonal climates, consult your vet to determine if seasonal dosing suffices or if year-round protection is necessary.
Conclusion
For most dog owners, HEARTGARD Plus remains the best overall choice due to its proven track record, affordability, and ease of use, especially for dogs up to 25 lbs. If you’re looking for added flea and tick protection, NexGard Plus offers a strong combination, though at a higher cost. For those prioritizing premium ingredients or multi-pest protection, investing in a more comprehensive product may be worthwhile. Beginners or owners with small dogs might prefer simple, palatable options, while owners with specific health concerns should prioritize vet recommendations. Ultimately, selecting the right heartworm chew depends on your dog’s size, health, and your budget — but this guide helps clarify the best options for each situation.
