
Frequently asked questions
At what age can I start HeartGard Plus on my puppy?
HeartGard Plus is approved for puppies from 6 weeks of age — younger than most other preventatives. There’s no minimum weight requirement, but check the pack size matches your puppy’s current weight.
My dog is just under 25 lbs — is Blue still the right pack?
Yes — the Blue pack covers dogs from very small puppies up to 25 lbs. If your dog reaches 26 lbs, switch to the Green pack (26–50 lbs). Don’t stay on Blue past 25 lbs — underdosing reduces heartworm protection effectiveness.
Do I need a heartworm test before starting HeartGard Plus?
For puppies starting before 7 months of age, no test is typically needed. For older dogs being newly started on heartworm prevention, your vet may recommend a heartworm test first to confirm your dog isn’t already infected — standard practice in the US and Canada.
What if my dog spits out or doesn’t fully eat the chew?
Make sure the full chew is consumed for proper dosing. If your dog spits it out within 5–10 minutes, you can offer a replacement. If they’ve eaten part of it, contact your vet for guidance on re-dosing.
Do I need a prescription to buy HeartGard Plus?
No — SmartWay Pet Supplies ships HeartGard Plus over the counter to customers across the US and Canada. No prescription or vet authorization required at checkout.
Is HeartGard Plus safe for Collies and other herding breeds?
At the dose used in HeartGard Plus, the product is generally considered safe for Collies, Australian Shepherds, Shetland Sheepdogs, and other herding breeds. If your dog has tested positive for the MDR1 gene mutation, or you’re concerned about ivermectin sensitivity, talk to your veterinarian before starting.