Fleas and ticks aren’t just annoying—they can lead to serious health problems in dogs, including skin infections, tapeworms, and tick-borne diseases. For Kiwi pet parents looking for long-lasting, vet-recommended protection, Bravecto for Dogs is one of the most trusted options on the market.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything NZ dog owners need to know about Bravecto: how it works, what types are available, when to give it, how safe it is, and where to buy it.
What is Bravecto for Dogs?
Bravecto is a veterinary-approved flea and tick treatment made by MSD Animal Health. It comes in two main formulations for dogs:
- Bravecto Chew – a tasty oral tablet
- Bravecto Spot-On – a topical solution applied to the skin
Each treatment provides up to 12 weeks of protection from fleas and ticks, making it a convenient quarterly solution.
Both versions contain fluralaner, a powerful ingredient that targets the nervous systems of parasites, killing them fast and preventing reinfestation.
How Does Bravecto Work?
Bravecto Chew: Once your dog eats the chew, fluralaner enters their bloodstream. Fleas and ticks die after biting your dog.
Bravecto Spot-On: Applied to the skin, it gets absorbed into the bloodstream over time. Like the chew, it kills fleas and ticks when they bite.
How Fast Does It Start Working?
- Chew: Starts killing fleas within 2 hours, ticks within 12 hours
- Spot-On: Fleas are eliminated in 8 hours, ticks within 12 hours
Which Bravecto Is Right for Your Dog?
| Version | Best For | Duration | Fleas | Ticks | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chew | Dogs who love treats or dislike topicals | 12 weeks | ✓ | ✓ | Oral tablet |
| Spot-On | Dogs with food sensitivities or pill resistance | 12 weeks | ✓ | ✓ | Topical solution |
Read our full article on Bravecto Spot-on Vs Bravecto Chews.
Is Bravecto Safe?
Yes. Bravecto is tested and approved for dogs:
- From 8 weeks of age
- Weighing 2kg or more
- Including breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs
Possible side effects (rare): vomiting, lethargy, diarrhoea, or loss of appetite. If unsure, always check with your vet.
Can Bravecto Be Used with Other Medications?
Yes, Bravecto can be safely used with most other treatments, including:
- Heartworm preventatives
- Worming tablets like Drontal
- Prescription medications
How Often Should I Give It?
Bravecto should be administered every 12 weeks. Set a recurring reminder to avoid lapses in protection. Fleas can return quickly if the schedule is broken.
Where to Buy Bravecto in NZ
To ensure you're buying genuine product with NZ approval, purchase from a licensed retailer like Pet Supply.
We stock:
Bravecto Flea & Worming Schedule
| Treatment | Covers | Reapply Every |
|---|---|---|
| Bravecto Chew | Fleas, Ticks | 12 Weeks |
| Bravecto Spot-On | Fleas, Ticks | 12 Weeks |
| Additional Wormer (e.g. Drontal) | Roundworm, Hookworm, Tapeworm | Every 3 Months |
Tips for NZ Dog Owners
- Use year-round: Fleas don’t vanish in winter in NZ
- Treat all pets in the household
- Wash pet bedding weekly
- Vacuum carpets and furniture regularly
Final Thoughts
Bravecto is one of the most effective long-duration flea and tick treatments available for NZ dogs. Whether you choose the chew or spot-on version, it’s a safe, easy-to-use solution that offers peace of mind and happy, itch-free pups.
Need help choosing the right size? Check your dog’s weight and use our product listings to match the correct dose. Or contact our team for friendly advice.