Key Benefits of Bravecto Chewable for Dogs
12 Weeks of Protection in One Tasty Chew
Most flea treatments need to be given monthly — Bravecto Chewable cuts that to just four doses a year. One beef-flavoured chew delivers 12 weeks of continuous flea and tick protection, making it easier to stay on schedule and ensuring your dog is never left unprotected between treatments.
Fast-Acting — Fleas Dead Within 2 Hours
Fluralaner gets to work fast. Bravecto starts killing fleas within 2 hours of administration and achieves full effectiveness within 8 hours. It also controls tick infestations caused by Haemaphysalis longicornis (bush tick) — one of the most common tick species affecting NZ dogs.
Also Treats Mites — Including Ear Mites and Mange
Beyond fleas and ticks, Bravecto Chewable treats and controls Demodex mites (demodicosis), ear mites (Otodectes cynotis), and sarcoptic mange (Sarcoptes scabiei). This makes it one of the more comprehensive oral treatments available without a prescription in New Zealand.
Indirectly Reduces Tapeworm Risk
By controlling fleas — which act as intermediate hosts for the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum — Bravecto Chewable indirectly reduces the risk of tapeworm infection in your dog. It does not directly treat intestinal worms, so a separate worming product is still recommended for full coverage.
Stays Effective After Swimming or Bathing
Because Bravecto Chewable works systemically through the bloodstream, swimming, bathing, and getting wet have no impact on its effectiveness. Ideal for active, outdoorsy NZ dogs that love the water.
Safe for the Whole Family — Including Breeding Dogs
Bravecto Chewable is approved for use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs, as well as puppies from 8 weeks of age weighing at least 2kg. Five weight-specific doses cover dogs from 2kg up to 56kg, making it suitable for every breed.
Active Ingredient
Fluralaner: The sole active ingredient in Bravecto Chewable. It kills fleas and ticks by disrupting their nervous system, targeting receptors found in insects and mites but not in mammals — making it highly effective against parasites while being safe for dogs when used as directed.
How to Administer
Bravecto Chewable is an oral tablet given by mouth. Most dogs accept it readily as a treat. It should be given at or around the time of feeding — either with a meal or shortly before or after.
Steps:
- Select the correct dose for your dog's current body weight
- Offer the chew directly by hand or place it in your dog's food bowl
- Confirm your dog has swallowed the full tablet
- Record the date given and set a reminder for 12 weeks later
Repeat every 3 months (12 weeks) for continuous flea and tick protection. Bravecto can be administered all year round.
Dosage by Weight
Always select the dose that matches your dog's current body weight. Do not split tablets between dogs.
- 2–4.5 kg: Bravecto Chewable 112.5mg
- 4.5–10 kg: Bravecto Chewable 250mg
- 10–20 kg: Bravecto Chewable 500mg
- 20–40 kg: Bravecto Chewable 1000mg
- 40–56 kg: Bravecto Chewable 1400mg
Approved for use from 8 weeks of age and weighing at least 2kg. Safe for use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs. Always follow the label directions for safe and effective use.
ACVM No. A011019. Available over the counter — no prescription required.
Bravecto Chewable for Dogs — FAQs
Bravecto Chewable is a long-acting oral flea and tick treatment for dogs, widely used by veterinarians across New Zealand. The information below is provided as general guidance to help dog owners use the product safely and effectively.
Q: What parasites does Bravecto Chewable protect against?
A: Bravecto Chewable treats and controls flea infestations and tick infestations caused by Haemaphysalis longicornis (bush tick). It also treats Demodex mites, ear mites (Otodectes cynotis), and sarcoptic mange. It indirectly reduces tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum) risk by controlling fleas. Note: it does not directly treat intestinal worms — a separate worming product is recommended.
Q: How long does one dose of Bravecto Chewable last?
A: One chew provides 3 months (12 weeks) of sustained control against fleas and ticks. For best results, re-dose every 12 weeks throughout the year.
Q: How quickly does Bravecto start working?
A: Bravecto starts killing fleas within 2 hours of administration and reaches full flea-killing effectiveness within 8 hours.
Q: Is Bravecto Chewable safe for puppies?
A: Yes. Bravecto Chewable is approved for puppies from 8 weeks of age, provided they weigh at least 2kg. Always select the correct weight-appropriate dose.
Q: Is it safe for breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs?
A: Yes. The NZ label confirms Bravecto Chewable is safe for use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs. If your dog has any underlying health conditions or is on other medications, check with your vet first.
Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?
A: Give the next dose as soon as you remember and restart the 12-week schedule from that date. Check your dog over carefully if they have been in a high-risk area during any unprotected period.
Q: Does Bravecto Chewable protect against worms?
A: Not directly. Bravecto Chewable targets fleas, ticks, and mites. It indirectly reduces tapeworm risk by controlling the flea population, but does not treat roundworms, hookworms, heartworm, or lungworm. Combine with a separate worming product for full parasite coverage — your vet can advise on the right schedule.
Q: Can my dog swim or be bathed after taking Bravecto?
A: Yes. Because Bravecto Chewable works through the bloodstream after ingestion, swimming, bathing, and rain have no effect on its efficacy. This is a key advantage over topical spot-on treatments.
Q: How does Bravecto Chewable compare to NexGard Spectra or Simparica Trio?
A: The main differences are coverage and dosing frequency. Bravecto Chewable lasts 12 weeks per dose and covers fleas, ticks, and mites. NexGard Spectra and Simparica Trio are monthly treatments that also cover intestinal worms and heartworm. If you want an all-in-one monthly wormer, those may suit better. If you prefer less frequent dosing and primarily need flea, tick, and mite protection, Bravecto Chewable is hard to beat.
Q: Do I need a prescription to buy Bravecto Chewable in New Zealand?
A: No. Bravecto Chewable (ACVM No. A011019) is available over the counter in New Zealand and does not require a veterinary prescription. You can order directly from Pet Supply with fast NZ delivery.
Q: Who makes Bravecto Chewable?
A: Bravecto is manufactured by MSD Animal Health, a globally recognised veterinary pharmaceutical company. Bravecto has undergone rigorous regulatory approval and is registered in over 89 markets worldwide.
*This information is provided as general guidance only and is based on the NZ product label (ACVM No. A011019). Always follow the product label and consult your veterinarian if your dog has underlying health conditions or is receiving other medications.
What’s the Better Choice?
When it comes to long-lasting flea and tick protection, Bravecto Chews make it easy to protect your dog for up to 12 weeks with one tasty tablet. The same trusted ingredient (Fluralaner) is used in both formats, but how you give it can make a big difference.
Why Choose the Chew?
- No messy residue or topical odour
- Stays effective even after swimming or bathing
- Starts killing fleas within 2 hours
- Most dogs take it like a treat
When to Consider the Spot-On
If your dog turns its nose up at tablets or has a sensitive tummy, Bravecto Spot-On is a great alternative. It’s applied to the skin and offers the same 12-week protection in a non-oral format.
Quick Comparison
Type: Chew = Oral tablet • Spot-On = Topical liquid
Duration: Both 12 weeks
Waterproof: Chew = Yes • Spot-On = No (avoid water 3 days)
Best for: Chew = Active/outdoor • Spot-On = Fussy/sensitive