Deworming in Dogs

Deworming is essential for eliminating internal parasites in young puppies and new dogs being brought into a household. Parasites pose a significant threat to a dog’s health, and certain types of parasites can be transferred to human family members as well.

How often should you deworm your dog? Generally, all puppies need to be dewormed every 2 to 4 weeks until they reach 12 weeks of age. They should then receive treatments to eliminate and prevent the parasites once a month until 6 months of age. After the age of 6 months, an adult dog should receive treatment every 1 to 6 months, or according to your veterinarian’s advice.

What medication is used to deworm dogs? Your veterinarian can prescribe the safest deworming products and will also know the correct dosage for your dog based on their age, body weight, and current health status.

In some cases, more than one parasite control program is needed. For dogs with intestinal parasites, a veterinarian may suggest an injection, topical treatment, or oral treatment.

Common deworming medications include:

• Drontal Plus
• Panacur
• Fenbendazole

Frequently asked questions about deworming medications for dogs

Are vomiting and diarrhea common side effects of deworming medications for dogs?

Yes. It's not uncommon for your pup to experience some stomach upset after taking deworming medication as the dead worms pass through their system. Side effects are typically mild.

Can you get worms from your dog even after you deworm them?

Yes. Roundworms can spread from dogs to humans. If your dog has recently been dewormed, wear gloves when you pick up their feces, and wash your hands well with soap and warm water.

How long will my dog poop worms after deworming?

Typically, your dog's poop will be back to normal within a few days. Dead worms may be present in your dog's poop for up to a week after treatment. If you have any concerns, contact your veterinarian.

Deworming treatments start working within a few hours. Studies show deworming medications are 98% to 100% effective at eliminating parasites such as roundworms, which are often present in puppies at birth after being passed through the placenta or mother’s milk. Roundworms can quickly mature in the puppy and then be passed through the stool to contaminate the environment, which is why deworming regularly is essential.

To prevent reinfection from other types of worms, there are a few things you can do in addition to deworming. Scheduled flea prevention will protect your dog from tapeworms. Training your dog to stop eating poop can also protect them from whipworms.

Your dog's caregiver can discuss an individualized plan based on lifestyle, taking into account factors like how much time they spend outside and whether they attend doggy daycare or frequent the park.

After being dewormed, dogs and puppies may suffer some mild side effects, including:

• lack of appetite
• gastrointestinal upset
• vomiting
• diarrhea
  

Some dewormer medications will dissolve the worms in the dog’s intestinal system, while others will paralyze them. In those instances, the paralyzed worms will detach themselves from the intestinal tissue and may eventually be found in the dog’s vomit or stool.

The cost of dewormer for dogs varies depending on which treatment is needed. Many deworming medications are available by prescription. Over-the-counter products are also available and may be less expensive. Depending on your location, some animal clinics offer low-cost deworming products for those in need.

Need financial assistance with your dog's deworming medication? Most pet insurance companies offer wellness add-ons that cover the cost of preventative care, including deworming. Start shopping around for pet insurance plans today to find the “pawfect” option for your fur-baby.

A dog who has been dewormed is not automatically covered against re-infestation. You must administer the deworming medication exactly as directed for the full duration of treatment. You'll also need to clean and maintain your dog's environment and your home.

Always wash your hands after administering the deworming product, and teach children the importance of hygiene as well. Keep your yard and any area your pup frequents free of dog feces by picking up after them immediately.  

Worm infestations cannot always be prevented. Dogs are exposed to worms from a variety of sources, including infected fleas, an infected dog's feces, and soil infested with parasite eggs.

Keeping your dog on a deworming schedule is the first line of defense against the spread of worms. Maintaining your dog’s general health by ensuring they get a wholesome, nutritious diet and plenty of exercise will also protect them from parasite infections and other diseases.