Here, novel methods to encapsulate magnetic nano-particles (MNPs) into dual-stimuli-responsive nanogels via covalent bonding are reported. With the aim of strengthening the attachment of MNPs with the nanogels, primary amineand epoxide-functionalized stimuli-sensitive poly(2-(diethylamino) ethyl methacrylate) (PDEAEMA)-based nanogels were firstly synthesized. Then, MNPs were incorporated into the nanogels by using different methods, obtaining different families of magnetic nanogels (MNGs). Those MNGs, showing pH-sensitivity and high superparamagnetic response, could be considered to be widely useful as theranostic agents in biomedical applications. (C) 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.