Royal Canin Puppy Food: Start of Life Diet

NuHeart

Overview

NuHeart is a monthly chewable tablet containing ivermectin designed to prevent heartworm disease in dogs. It targets immature Dirofilaria immitis larvae before they mature into adult heartworms. Approved for puppies from 6 weeks of age (weighing at least 2 kg), NuHeart is palatable, making it easy to administer without veterinary visits. While NuHeart does not protect against external parasites or intestinal worms, its focused heartworm prevention is ideal for dogs already on other broad-spectrum products or those in areas where heartworm is the primary concern.

Key Benefits

Heartworm prevention: Ivermectin in NuHeart eliminates migrating heartworm larvae, significantly reducing the risk of adult heartworm disease. Once-monthly convenience: A single chew per month maintains protective blood levels to prevent larval development. Puppy-safe: Approved for puppies from 6 weeks old, enabling early initiation of heartworm prophylaxis. Palatable formulation: Beef-flavoured chew encourages voluntary ingestion, reducing stress for both dog and owner.

Usage & Dosage

Select the correct NuHeart chew based on weight:

• 2 – 4 kg: One 68 mcg ivermectin chew monthly.
• 4 – 10 kg: One 136 mcg ivermectin chew monthly.
• 10 – 20 kg: One 272 mcg ivermectin chew monthly.
• 20 – 40 kg: One 544 mcg ivermectin chew monthly.
• > 40 kg: Combine chews to achieve the appropriate dose (e.g., two 272 mcg chews for 40–80 kg).

Administer NuHeart with or without food. If the tablet is vomited within one hour, re-dose with a full chew. Resume the 30-day schedule thereafter. Keep track of dosing dates—mark a calendar or set reminders to prevent missed doses. Store chews at room temperature in a dry, secure place.

Safety & Considerations

NuHeart is generally well tolerated; mild transient side effects—such as vomiting or diarrhoea—may occur. Use caution in dogs with a history of seizures, as ivermectin can lower the seizure threshold in predisposed breeds (e.g., Collies). Do not use in dogs weighing less than 2 kg or puppies under 6 weeks. Pregnant and lactating bitches can receive NuHeart under veterinary guidance. An annual heartworm test is essential before reinitiating prophylaxis each year. Keep NuHeart chews out of reach of children and other pets to prevent accidental ingestion. In case of overdose or severe reactions, seek veterinary assistance without delay.

Frequently asked questions

How soon does NuHeart start protecting against heartworm?

Ivermectin in NuHeart kills migrating larvae within 24 hours; monthly dosing maintains continuous protection.

Can I give NuHeart with food?

Yes—NuHeart can be administered with or without food. Offering with a meal may help if your dog tends to have gastrointestinal upset.

What if my dog vomits the chew?

If vomiting occurs within one hour, re-dose with another full chew. If after one hour, no re-dose is needed; resume the monthly schedule.

Is NuHeart effective against intestinal worms?

No—NuHeart targets only heartworm larvae. Use a broad-spectrum dewormer (e.g., Milbemax) for roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.

Do indoor dogs need NuHeart?

Yes—mosquitoes can enter homes, so indoor dogs remain at risk and should receive year-round heartworm prevention.