Quick answer

Both Simparica and Bravecto are effective oral flea and tick preventatives for dogs, but they differ in dosing schedule and tick species coverage. Bravecto lasts 12 weeks per dose, while Simparica is given monthly. Choose Bravecto for convenience and longer coverage against the lone star tick, or Simparica for monthly protection that includes the brown dog tick.

Dosing and duration differences

The biggest practical difference between these two oral flea and tick treatments is how often you need to give them. Bravecto chewable tablets are administered once every 12 weeks, so you only need to remember four doses a year. Simparica chewable tablets are given once a month, which means 12 doses annually. For owners who travel frequently or have a busy schedule, the longer interval of Bravecto can be a real time-saver. However, monthly dosing with Simparica may feel more familiar if you're used to a monthly routine.

Tick species coverage

Both products kill adult fleas and several tick species, but their approved tick lists differ slightly. Bravecto is indicated for the treatment and control of black-legged ticks, American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, and lone star ticks for 8 weeks (12 weeks for the others). Simparica covers black-legged ticks, American dog ticks, and brown dog ticks for the full 35 days. If lone star ticks are common in your area, Bravecto's longer coverage for that species may be a deciding factor. For general tick protection, both are reliable choices.

Price and value comparison

Pricing reflects the different dosing schedules. A single Bravecto dose for a 22–44 lb dog is priced at $62.99 (compared to $83.99), covering 12 weeks. A 6-pack of Simparica for dogs 44.1–88 lbs costs $102.94 (compared to $142.97), which covers six months. When you calculate cost per month, Simparica works out to about $17.16 per month, while Bravecto is roughly $21.00 per month. Simparica is slightly more economical, but Bravecto's less frequent dosing may justify the small premium for many owners.

Trade-offs to consider

  • Dosing convenience: Bravecto requires only 4 doses per year; Simparica requires 12. If you often forget monthly treatments, Bravecto's longer interval reduces that risk. Choose Bravecto for convenience, Simparica if you prefer monthly routines.
  • Tick species covered: Bravecto covers lone star ticks for 8 weeks; Simparica does not list lone star ticks in its indications. Both cover black-legged, American dog, and brown dog ticks. If lone star ticks are a concern, Bravecto is the better choice.
  • Cost per month: Simparica costs about $17.16 per month; Bravecto about $21.00 per month. The difference is small, but it adds up over a year. Simparica is slightly more budget-friendly over time.

Product facts at a glance

  • Bravecto Chewable Flea & Tick Preventative for Dogs 22-44 lb: Bravecto chewable tablets are flavored chews for flea and tick control in dogs. One treatment should be administered every 12 weeks. Bravecto kills adult fleas and is indicated for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations, and the treatment and control of black-legged ticks, American dog tick, and brown dog ticks for 12 weeks, and lone star tick infestations for 8 weeks in dogs and puppies 6 weeks of age or older. The 12-week dosing window means fewer doses per year, which is ideal for owners who want a set-it-and-forget-it approach. The lone star tick coverage is a bonus if you live in the southeastern or eastern U.S.
  • Simparica Chewable Tablets for Dogs 44.1-88 lbs 6 Pack: Simparica chewable tablets are once-a-month tablets that protect your dog from fleas and ticks for a full 35 days. They kill fleas before they can lay eggs, helping to prevent home infestations and tick-borne illnesses. The tasty tablet is simply fed once a month. Monthly dosing aligns with many owners' existing pet care routines. The fast flea kill before egg-laying can help break the flea life cycle more quickly in your home.

Which one is right for your dog?

Best for

  • Owners who want fewer doses per year and are willing to pay a bit more for convenience
  • Dogs in areas where lone star ticks are prevalent

Not ideal for

  • Owners who prefer a monthly routine or want the lowest monthly cost
  • Dogs that need brown dog tick coverage only (both work, but Simparica is cheaper per month)