Worms are a common problem for dogs and can be very difficult to get rid of. While there are many different dog dewormers on the market, some are better than others.
Today, I will be introducing you to twelve of the best dewormers for dogs. Each of these products will work quickly and safely to get rid of worms.
| Product Name | Best for case |
|---|---|
| Safe-Guard 4 | Best overall without prescription (broad spectrum) |
| Trifexis | Best overall with prescription (fast-acting) |
| Advantage | Best topical solution |
| Durvet | Best for large dogs without prescription |
| Interceptor | Best for large dogs with prescription (broad spectrum) |
| HomeoPet | Best natural worm medicine |
| Nemex | Best liquid solution |
| Sentry HC | Best for small dogs without prescription |
| Heartgard | Best for pregnant dogs with prescription |
| Bayer Quad | Best for puppies without prescription (over 4 weeks of age) |
| Elanco | Best for tapeworms (praziquantel) |
| Panacur C | Best cost-effective |
Purpose of The Review
The purpose of this review is to provide thoughtful, cautious dog owners like you with an in-depth look at the best dog dewormers to help them make an informed decision about which dewormer is right for their pets.
Criteria for Evaluating The Best Dog Dewormer
1. Effectiveness
- The effectiveness of a dog dewormer is its ability to eliminate worms and parasites quickly and completely.
- This will include researching if it’s a broad-spectrum dewormer (able to eliminate different types of worms) or targeted to specific worms, the dosage and administration forms, and the efficacy on certain parasites.
2. Safety
- A safe deworming medicine for dogs is one that is not toxic and does not have any major side effects.
- Researching the dewormer’s active ingredients, its FDA or vet association clearance, and the side effects reported by other users
3. Convenience of Administration
The convenience of administration refers to how easy it is to give the dewormer to the dog. This includes the form of the dewormer (pill, chew, liquid, etc.) and whether or not it needs to be given with food.
4. Cost
The cost of the dewormer is an important consideration for many dog owners. This includes the cost per treatment, the quantity of the product in the package, and if there is a subscription or bulk-buy option available
12 Best Dewormers for Dogs for Any Type of Worm
We have compiled a list of the top deworming options for canines of various categories. Whether you possess a large breed, a small breed, or a youthful pup, or perhaps you seek the preeminent de-wormer overall, we got you covered.
Scroll down to discover the best dewormers for dogs of all ages.
1. Safe-Guard 4: Best Overall Without Prescription (broad Spectrum)
Excel 8in1 Safe – Guard Canine Dewormer for Large Dogs
- Safe Guard treats against Tapeworms, Roundworms, Hookworms, and Whipworms
- Easy to feed granules that mix into food
- Safe for young puppies over the age of 6 weeks, pregnant dogs, and heartworm infected dogs
- Must be administered for 3 consecutive days and is effective for 6 months
- Each package contains three 4-gram pouches, each pouch treats 40 pounds
- Packaging may vary
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It is highly recommended by veterinarians as well as pet owners. It contains Fenbendazole, which is a major ingredient of any prescribed canine dewormer.
This product treats the four usual worms: tapeworm, roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm. The active ingredients are mixed into food so that your pup can eat it with ease.
The granules are easy to mix in the food and hence serve as an easy way of feeding them to your dogs or puppies. Be it a 6-week-old puppy or a pregnant dog or even one with a heartworm infection (the dewormer is safe for all), this product will do its job effectively without harming your little buddy!
It contains three 4-gram pouches that can treat 40 lbs of weight per day for 3 days continuously (this means you need two packs if you have 2 dogs). A consecutive 3-day dose keeps worms away for 6 months!!!
Just weigh your dog to get an idea of the correct dosage, follow the instructions given at the back of the package, and you will see the results immediately
About This Item:
- Includes active ingredients like Fenbendazole – the major ingredient of ANY prescribed canine de-wormer
- Treats against the four usual worms, for instance, tapeworm, roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm
- It is an easy-to-feed formula that contains highly palatable granules.
- Be it a 6-week-old puppy, a pregnant dog, or a heartworm-infected pooch (the de-wormer is safe for dogs and puppies)
- It contains three 4-gram pouches, and each pouch can treat 40 lbs for a 3-day treatment.
- A consecutive 3-day dose keeps worms away for six months.
- The dewormer can be mixed directly with food and it does not require any special handling.
Pros:
- Safe and effective treatment for any breed
- Easy-to-feed
- Contains highly palatable granules
Cons:
- Large dogs may need more than one pouch
What We Think:
In sum, Safe-Guard 4 is an excellent choice for your dog. It treats against four worms that are common in dogs; namely tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.
These worms are known to be harmful to dogs’ health because they cause vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and malnutrition in addition to other complications such as liver damage or heartworm disease (in case of heartworm infection).
The formulation has been approved by FDA for use in dogs over 6 weeks old. Safe-Guard 4 provides fast relief from canine worms without causing any side effects on your pet’s health.
2. Trifexis: Best Overall With Prescription (fast-acting)
Trifexis is a comprehensive dewormer for dogs and puppies that offers protection against various parasites. It comes in a monthly chewable tablet that is formulated to kill fleas and prevent flea infestations, prevent heartworm disease, and treat and control adult hookworm, roundworm, and whipworm infections.
One of the strengths of Trifexis is that it uses two active ingredients, spinosad and milbemycin oxime, to provide superior protection against different types of parasites.
The milbemycin oxime component is used as a heartworm preventive and kills the immature form of the heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) transmitted by mosquitoes.
Additionally, it effectively kills adult hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. The spinosad component in Trifexis is specifically designed to prevent and control flea infestations by killing adult fleas.
Trifexis is easy to administer, comes in a beef-flavored tablet, and can be offered as a treat to your dog. It is safe for use in dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age or older, and 5 lbs of body weight or greater.
Pros:
- Comprehensive protection against a wide range of parasites
- Combines two active ingredients for superior efficacy
- Easy to administer beef-flavored tablet
- Safe for use in dogs and puppies 8 weeks or older and 5 lbs or greater
Cons:
- Monthly dosing schedule required
- Prescription needed
- Not safe for use in dogs with certain health conditions
3. Advantage: Best Topical Solution
Advantage Multi for Dogs is a broad-spectrum topical solution that effectively protects your dog from a variety of parasitic infections. It is prescribed by veterinarians and requires a monthly application.
This medication effectively treats circulating microfilariae in heartworm-positive dogs, adult fleas, and sarcoptic mange, as well as common intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.
It may also prevent heartworm disease in some dogs, however it is important to have a current heartworm test result on file with your veterinarian prior to being prescribed this medication. It is also recommended to visit your veterinarian annually for a heartworm test to ensure the best protection for your dog.
While Advantage Multi for Dogs is a safe and effective medication, it is important to consult with your veterinarian before use and inform them of any other medications your dog is taking.
Pros:
- Convenient monthly application
- Easy to use topical solution
- Broad-spectrum topical solution that protect against a wide range of parasitic infections
- May prevent heartworm disease in some dogs
- Treats and controls flea infestations, sarcoptic mange and common intestinal parasites
Cons:
- Must have current heartworm test result on file with veterinarian
- Annual veterinarian visits required for heartworm test.
- Prescription needed
4. Durvet: Best for Large Dogs Without Prescription
Durvet Triple Wormer for Medium and Large Dogs
- Convenient 12 Pack
- Non prescription
- Controls seven strains of tape; hook and roundworms
- Chewable Tablets ; Packaging may vary
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Are you tired of spending your money on dog dewormers that cater only to small dog worm issues? Buying package after package is annoying. If your dog is large and suffering from parasitic issues, Durvet dog wormer is the way to go.
Durvet is a broad-spectrum dewormer for dogs that is effective against roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms (seven strains).
Features a broad-spectrum formula containing ingredients like Pyrantel, pamoate, and Praziquantel to control the mentioned parasites
The package comes with 12 highly palatable, chewable, and flavored tablets that are easy to administer orally in any way you want (with or without food)
This wormer, which does not require a prescription, is specially formulated to quickly eliminate all stages of different types of intestinal worms. It is an effective solution that provides faster and less painful relief for your pet compared to other products available on the market today.
It also comes at an affordable price considering its effectiveness; making it one of the best options out there for puppy owners who want something effective but don’t want to break the bank!
Soon your dog will be WORM-FREE.
Like most wormers, this medicine kills only adult parasites. Hence, for better results, you need to administer the process again in two weeks.
About This Item:
- Specially designed for medium and large dogs (typically weighing between 25 lbs and 200 lbs)
- Features a broad-spectrum formula containing ingredients like Pyrantel pamoate and Praziquantel
- Controls Tapeworms, Roundworms, Hookworms, and their further strains
- The package comes with 12 highly palatable, chewable, and flavored tablets
Pros:
- Is a non-prescription wormer
- Tasty chewable tablets
- Works fast
- Easy dosage (can be given with or without food)
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- Doesn’t eliminate whipworms
- Not for dogs under 25 lbs and puppies less than 12 weeks of age
- Not suitable for dogs with a sensitive stomach
5. Interceptor: Best for Large Dogs With Prescription (broad Spectrum)
Interceptor Plus is a dewormer for dogs and puppies that provides comprehensive protection against a wide range of parasites. It is a monthly chewable tablet that is specially formulated to protect your dog from heartworm disease, adult hookworm, roundworm, tapeworm and whipworm infections.
One of the key features of Interceptor Plus is that it is effective against five different types of worms, providing broad-spectrum protection. It kills the immature form of heartworm and also treats and controls adult roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms.
Interceptor Plus is easy to administer and comes in a chicken-flavored chewable form, making it easy to give to your dog as a treat. It is safe for use in dogs and puppies 6 weeks or older and 2 pounds or greater. It is available in 4 different dosing sizes to accommodate dogs of different weight ranges.
Pros:
- Comprehensive protection against a wide range of parasites
- Effective against 5 different types of dangerous worms
- Easy to administer chicken-flavored chewable
- Safe for use in dogs and puppies 6 weeks or older and 2 pounds or greater
- Available in 4 dosing sizes to accommodate dogs of different weight ranges
Cons:
- Monthly dosing schedule required
- Not safe for use in dogs with certain health conditions
- Prescription needed
6. HomeoPet: Best Natural Worm Medicine
If you’re looking for a natural dewormer for your dog or puppy, WRM Clear may be worth considering. This treatment is designed to help remove roundworm, tapeworm, whipworm, and hookworm, and it is made from natural ingredients that work with your pet’s immune system to remove intestinal worms.
It is easy to use, and you can dose it directly into your pet’s mouth, in water, or at meal/snack time. However, it is important to follow the instructions and use it for the recommended time period, 3 times a day for 14 days as treatment and 3 times a day for 7 days to discourage reinfestation.
WRM Clear is approved for use with various types of pets, including cats, dogs, puppies, kittens, senior pets, birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, and more. It’s a versatile option, but as with any product, it may not work for every pet, so it’s always good to consult with your vet first.
I appreciate that WRM Clear is created by veterinarian brothers, which gives me confidence that it is made by experts in the field.
Overall, WRM Clear is a natural dewormer that may be worth trying if you’re looking for an alternative to prescription dewormers. However, it’s important to keep in mind that it may not be as effective as some prescription options, and it may cause digestive upset or vomiting in some pets. As always, it’s best to consult with your vet before trying any new product.
Pros:
- Made from natural ingredients
- Intended to work with your pet’s immune system to remove intestinal worms
- Easy to use
- Versatile and can be used with a wide range of pets
- Created by veterinarian brothers
- No prescription needed
Cons:
- May not be as effective as some prescription dewormers
- Can cause digestive upset or vomiting in some pets
- Need to use 3 times a day for 14 days as treatment and 3 times a day for 7 days to discourage reinfestation.
7. Nemex: Best Liquid Solution
- Safe, palatable and convenient
- 4.54 mg pyrantel pamoate per ml
- Controls large roundworms and hookworms in dogs
- Safe for puppies
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When it comes to treating pups and small dogs, Nemex 2 Oral Liquid is by far one of the best liquid dog de-wormer (for its ease of use) with a pleasant-tasting formulation.
Nemex 2 Liquid Dewormer is a liquid dewormer for dogs and puppies that contains pyrantel pamoate.
It’s safe for puppies as young as 2 weeks who weigh less than 10 pounds, and it kills large roundworms and hookworms in dogs, preventing reinfestation of these parasites.
It can also be used as a preventative to stop reinfestation in pups, adult dogs, or lactating bitches.
One 5 ml syringe treats 10 pounds of body weight (a little over 4 kg), so you’ll need to follow the dosage instructions carefully or you might give your dog too much medication.
Nemex 2 doesn’t have any known side effects because it’s made with pyrantel pamoate which has been safely used by humans since 1969; however, there are some precautions you should take when administering this medicine:
- Don’t give more than one dose per day (so don’t use two syringes at once)
- Make sure each dose is given 12 hours apart from the last one-don’t give them too close together!
About This Item:
- Safe for puppies as young as 2-weeks and small breeds
- Contains pyrantel pamoate as an active ingredient
- The suspension is intended as a single treatment for killing large roundworms and hookworms.
- Safe to use as a preventative to stop reinfestation in pups, adult dogs, or lactating bitches
Pros:
- No side effects
- Highly palatable
- Easy- to-administer
- A great option for dogs who don’t like taking tablets
Cons:
- Won’t treat tapeworms and whipworms
- Large dogs will require a larger amount of dosage
8. Sentry HC: Best for Small Dogs Without Prescription
Sentry Worm X Plus 7 Way DeWormer Small Dogs (6 Count)
- WormX Plus is available without a prescription
- Sentry HC WormX Plus For Small Dogs is a broad spectrum de-wormer for the treatment and control of large Roundworms, Hookworms and Tapeworms in dogs and puppies 6 lbs to 25 lbs
- Sentry HC WormX Plus Chewables are recommended for dogs 12 weeks of age and older
- Treats and Control 7 Species of Intestinal Worms 6 to 12 lbs - Give 1 Tablet 12.1 to 25 lbs - Give 2 Tablets
- Product Expiration Date: March 2019
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This product is safe for puppies and small dogs. It contains two active, safe, and veterinary-grade ingredients: pyrantel pamoate and praziquantel.
The 7-way action eliminates two strains of tapeworms, two strains of roundworms, three strains of hookworm, and whipworm. Capable of treating current infestations and preventing new ones.
Tablets (one package contains 6 chewable tablets) come in the form of tasty chews that can be given separately or mixed with food or water as desired by your pet owner. One dose keeps your dog protected for 30 days (Normally, one dose is enough).
The Sentry HC WormX Plus 7 Way Puppy & Small Dog De-Wormer is an affordable dewormer that has been approved by the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for use on dogs weighing 6 to 25 lbs in weight!
It comes without a prescription so you can buy it over the counter if needed.
For all these reasons, Sentry HC WormX Plus is our top pick for the best dewormer for small dogs.
About This Item:
- Formulated especially for small-breed dogs weighing between 6 lbs to 25 lbs
- Recommended for dogs 12 weeks of age and older,
- Contains two active, safe, and veterinary-grade ingredients, pyrantel pamoate and praziquantel
- The 7-way action eliminates two strains of tapeworms, two strains of roundworms, and three strains of hookworm
- Capable of treating current infestations and preventing new ones
- Tablets come in the form of tasty chews
- One dose keeps your dog protected for 30 days (Normally, one dose is enough)
- One package contains 6 chewable tablets
Pros:
- Available without prescription
- Easy to administer (mix with food or give separately)
- Quick and effective
- Affordable
Cons:
- Doesn’t remove whipworms
- Not suitable for dogs above 25 lbs
- Not for younger puppies (less than 12 weeks), pregnant and nursing females
9. Heartgard: Best for Pregnant Dogs With Prescription
Heartgard Plus is a dewormer and heartworm preventative for dogs that contains Pyrantel and Ivermectin to control and treat hookworms and kill heartworms. It is a once-monthly chewable tablet that is specially formulated to protect your dog from heartworm disease, which is a potentially fatal illness caused by infected mosquitoes.
One of the key benefits of Heartgard Plus is that it is a year-round heartworm preventative. This is important because mosquitoes can bite during any season and cause lasting damage as quickly as 3 months later. Additionally, it is safe for use in dogs over 6 weeks old, and the American Heartworm Society recommends year-round dosing.
Heartgard Plus comes in a delicious real-beef chew that dogs love, making it easy to administer. However, before starting treatment, it is important to consult with your veterinarian and make sure your dog has received a negative heartworm test, and inform them of any other medications your dog is taking.
Pros:
- Once-monthly chewable tablet
- Safe for use in dogs over 6 weeks old
- American Heartworm Society recommends year-round dosing
- Real-beef flavor making it easy to administer
- Highly effective in killing heartworms and treating and controlling hookworms
Cons:
- Not safe for use in dogs with certain health conditions
- Prescription needed
10. Bayer Quad: Best for Puppies Without Prescription (over 4 Weeks of Age)
Bayer Chewable Quad Dewormer for Puppies and Small Dogs
- Easy-to-give beef-flavored chewable tablet
- Broad-spectrum dewormer
- Effective against tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms and whipworms
- For use in dogs over 4 weeks of age
- Warning: Keep out of reach of children
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Nothing is more upsetting than finding out that your newly born puppy is affected by a heavy load of worms. True? You might not know, but most puppies are born with worms.
The good news is that this dewormer is perfect for puppies or small dogs weighing up to 25 pounds. It contains all the active ingredients like praziquantel, pyrantel pamoate, and febantel, which helps fight against four common types of worms in dogs: tapeworms, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms.
The fast-acting chews treat worms in a single dose. They are quick, safe, and powerful; palatable beef-flavored chews that can be fed directly or masked in food with no prescription needed.
Looking for a puppy dewormer? The quad dewormer is the best dewormer for puppies.
About This Item:
- Effective against four common types of worms, tapeworms, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms
- Contains all the active ingredients like praziquantel, pyrantel pamoate, and febantel
- The chewable tablets are beef-flavored and taste no less than a treat, which means even a picky eater won’t say NO!
- Fast-acting chews treat worms in a single dose.
Pros:
- Quick, safe, and powerful
- Palatable beef-flavored chews
- No prescription needed
- Hassle-free administration (feed directly or mask in food)
Cons:
- Can be only used for dogs ABOVE 3 weeks of age
- ogs who don’t like beef may not take the medication willingly.
Caution: The entire list of dog de-wormer is non-prescription at-home treatments, but it’s always wise to consult your vet (or an online veterinarian available 24/7 here) for the proper diagnosis, treatment, and parasitic control. Always!
11. Elanco: Best for Tapeworms (praziquantel)
Bayer Tapeworm Dog De-Wormer is an effective solution for removing common tapeworms in dogs. It is designed to safely remove dipylidium caninum and taenia pisiformis tapeworms.
The dewormer comes in an easy-to-administer tablet form that can be crumbled up and mixed with food or given directly in the mouth. Safe for dogs over four weeks of age and does not require a prescription.
Each tablet contains 34mg of the active ingredient praziquantel, a highly effective medication for tapeworms. The product comes in a 5-count bottle, providing enough tablets for a full treatment course.
Pros:
- Safe and effective way to remove common tapeworms from dogs
- Easy-to-administer tablet form
- No prescription required
- Safe for dogs over 4 weeks of age
- Trusted Bayer brand
Cons:
- Only effective against dipylidium caninum and taenia pisiformis tapeworms
12. Panacur C: Best Cost-effective
Panacur C Canine Dewormer is an effective treatment for hookworms, roundworms, Taenia tapeworms, and whipworms in dogs. Its active ingredient, fenbendazole, is approved by the FDA for safe treatment and prevention of these parasites, making it a reliable option for peet owners. The medication works by binding to the parasitic proteins, which damages the structure and transport function of the cells.
One benefit of this dewormer is its ease of administration. It can be mixed with food, making it convenient for pet owners. It is recommended to administer one gram per 10 pounds of body weight once a day for three consecutive days. The three-count package allows for one complete treatment.
Panacur C Canine Dewormer is safe for all dogs 6 weeks and older, including pregnant dogs. However, deworming schedules may vary depending on the climate and the activity level of the dog. It is important to consult with a veterinarian before use and inform them of any other medications the dog is taking.
Pros:
- Highly effective treatment for hookworms, roundworms, Taenia Tapeworms, and whipworms in dogs
- Active ingredient fenbendazole is approved by the FDA
- Easy to administer by mixing with food
- Safe for all dogs 6 weeks and older, including pregnant dogs
- 3-count package for complete treatment
- No prescription needed
Cons:
- Deworming schedules may vary depending on the climate where you live and the activity of your dog
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the right dewormer
How to Choose The Best Dewormer for Dogs?
There are many factors you can consider to find the best dewormer for your puppy or dog.
1. Dosage
The dosage is important because you’ll want to make sure that it’s strong enough to kill all worms in your dog’s body, but not too strong so as not to harm them
2. Active Ingredients
Make sure that the active ingredients match the type of worm you have or think you have. For example, if there are two different types of tapeworms present in your dog’s body, then make sure that both are killed by this product.
3. Safety
Some worm medications may contain chemicals or pesticides which could be harmful if taken in large doses. Be sure that whatever product you choose does not contain any such chemical toxins before giving it to your pet (you can do this by checking reviews online).
4. User Reviews
A lot of people will leave their own personal experiences with the product online, so be sure to check these out before purchasing the product. This way, you’ll know exactly what kind of results other people have gotten from using it.
5. Price
While this may not be as important as some other factors listed above, it’s still worth considering how much money you’re willing or able to spend on dewormers for your dog.
6. Value
You should also consider the value of the product. Some dewormers may be more expensive than others, but they may also work better. If you have a larger dog or multiple dogs, then this factor could affect your decision.
7. Delivery
You may also want to consider how quickly you’ll be able to get your product. Some products can take up to a week or more before they arrive at your door, whereas others can ship out within 24 hours of purchase.
What Are The Most Important Dog Dewormer Features?
There are a lot of dewormers on the market today, but not all of them can be considered the best. So what makes a good dog dewormer?
- The type of worms it treats. Are you trying to get rid of tapeworms? Hookworms? Roundworms? They all need different treatments and some types of worms can be harder than others to treat.
- The dosage. You want to make sure that the dose is correct for your dog’s weight so that he doesn’t get sick from too much or too little medicine. If you accidentally use a dose that’s too strong for your pet, it could cause serious side effects like vomiting or diarrhea (or even death!). If you accidentally use a dose that’s too weak, then there won’t be enough medicine in his system to kill off any parasites he has in his body which can lead to more problems down the road!
- Safety and side effects are important since this is medicine after all!
- Price is also an important factor: you want your dog to be healthy without breaking the bank (and there are plenty of cheap options out there).
- Availability of different doses/formulations may be important depending on where you live or travel with your pooch often; some drugs require refrigeration while others do not so this can affect portability and convenience when traveling with pets around town or abroad for vacation purposes!
Why Are Worms a Problem?
If you’ve ever heard the term “worm,” you probably immediately thought of those awful creatures that crawl around on the ground, right? Not so fast. Worms aren’t necessarily limited to living in dirt and mud.
Worms are parasites that live in the intestines of dogs. Hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms are all common intestinal parasites in dogs.
- Worms can cause serious health problems for your dog.
- Dogs with worms may have diarrhea, vomiting, or weight loss.
- Dogs with worms may develop anemia (low red blood cell count). This causes tiredness and weakness because their body is not getting enough oxygen to function properly. If left untreated, it could lead to death due to organ failure or cardiac arrest within a few days after initial symptoms appear.
Understanding dog worms and wormer for dogs
Dog worms are parasitic worms that can infect the gastrointestinal tract of dogs. These worms can cause a variety of health problems, including diarrhea, weight loss, and anemia. Dewormer kills various parasites that afflict dogs, including helminths, which are parasitic worms that can infect the gastrointestinal tract of dogs and cats.
There are several types of dog worms, including roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms. Each type of worm has a unique set of symptoms and can be treated with different medications.
1. Roundworms
The two species of roundworms are Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina. Both of them are long, white, and spaghetti-like in appearance.
Initially, the roundworm larvae infect the dog’s intestinal tract. Later on, they can move to other body tissues and organs. When, as Toxocara canis, a roundworm larva matures, it moves to the lungs and then up to the airway. Afterward, it re-enters the intestine to complete its lifecycle.
On the other hand, Toxascaris leonina has a simpler lifecycle and doesn’t move.
Roundworms are diagnosed with a stool sample. If left untreated, they can be the cause of poor growth or, in severe conditions, can lead to death.
2. Hookworms
Hookworms are very short, typically 1/8 of an inch. They are blood-sucking parasites and suck heavy amounts of blood from the intestine of their host dog. They can cause anemia in dogs and can be fatal if not treated.
Just like Toxocara canis, hookworms also move about in their host’s body, enter the lungs, and then re-enter the intestine to grow mature.
Hookworms can only be detected microscopically through a stool test called ‘Fecal Flotation’
3. Whipworms
Whipworms are large intestinal parasites. They live in the cecum – the beginning of the large intestine. Hookworms don’t suck as many nutrients as other types of worms do.
In mild cases, they don’t cause any symptoms. But, if they make their way to intestinal tissues, they can be fatal and cause inflammation, weight loss, diarrhea, and sometimes anemia.
Vets can diagnose whipworms through the fecal sample. Whipworm eggs are not easy to find, though. Therefore, repeated fecal exams are recommended.
4. Tapeworms
Tapeworms are small intestinal parasites. They are long (half a foot or more in length), flat, and segmented.
Tapeworms suck blood from the walls of the small intestine and extract nutrients. They don’t cause any serious harm until and unless the host dog is extremely active. When excreted, tapeworms pass on their segments in the affected dog’s stool.
Mostly, they are visible in a dog’s poop and look like little pieces of rice.
If you notice some of them in your dog’s poop or find him scooting his bottom along the ground, take your dog’s stool sample to a vet for diagnosis.
Dewormers are medications that are used to treat and prevent parasitic worm infections in dogs. These worms can cause a variety of health problems and can be transmitted to humans, making it important to properly care for and treat your dog. Dewormers typically come in the form of chewable tablets or powders and are administered orally. Most dewormers are broad-spectrum products that are effective against multiple types of parasites.
There are a lot of benefits for your dog to being dewormed. The most obvious benefit is the prevention of worm infestations. Worms can cause serious health issues in dogs, and there are even some worms that can infect humans as well.
If you have young children or elderly people in your household, they may not be able to fight off an infection from a worm easily, so it is important to keep everyone safe.
Other benefits of deworming for dogs include:
- A healthier dog. Regular deworming will help keep your pup healthy and happy. It can also prevent secondary infections and serious illnesses that might occur if the worms are left alone in his body.
- Reduced risk of a worm infestation. If you’re not deworming your dog, he could get infected with some nasty parasites like hookworms or roundworms, which can cause anemia (a shortage of red blood cells).
- Better overall quality of life for both you and your pet! If you do nothing else to care for your pet’s health, make sure they get regular dewormings! You’ll be amazed at how much happier and more energetic they’ll become as well as how much better their coats look!
So, how often should you deworm your dog? The answer varies depending on the type of worm and what kind of dewormer you use. Talk to your vet about how often he recommends that you administer the medication.
The way you administer the dewormer will depend on what kind of dewormer you are giving your dog.
Some dewormers come as pills or liquid, while other types of worm medications have to be given orally through a syringe.
Some dewormers are meant to be used with food while others don’t require it and can be given directly (orally).
Always check the label on your dog’s medication to see which method is required for administering it properly.
If you aren’t sure about how much of the medication should be given or whether it should be taken with food or not, consult with your vet before (or an online veterinarian available 24/7 here) administering any sort of canine dewormer.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question “How often should I deworm my dog?” If you want an exact answer, you will have to consult your veterinarian.
In general, though, The frequency of deworming your dog will depend on several factors, including:
- The type of worm you are treating. Some worms need to be treated more frequently than others. For example, some heartworms require a monthly dose while others only need to be treated once every few months or even years.
- The type of dewormer used: Some dewormers work best when given every two weeks while others can last longer and be given less frequently (for example, once every three or six months).
- The type of environment they live in (urban vs rural), whether they interact with other dogs frequently and how often they go outside or eat things off the ground like sticks or leaves.
- Puppies over 12 weeks old should be dewormed every 2-4 weeks until they are 12 weeks old, then puppies should be dewormed at leasst every 3 months throughout theirr life.
Dogs can pick up different worms in different ways. Some of the most common ways for dogs to get infected by worms are as follows:
1. From Mother Dog
Roundworms and hookworms can creep into the womb of the mother dog. Therefore, they can be transmitted to unborn puppies. Resultantly, the puppies are born with parasitic worm issues.
The other way a mother dog passes on her worms to young puppies is through lactation.
2. Swallowing Contaminated Soil
Another major source of getting parasitic worm infections for dogs is ingesting contaminated soil. Most of the roundworms, whipworms, and hookworms are found in contaminated soil.
Dogs get the infection while ingesting and grooming their fur with dirty soil. Keeping your dog clean can reduce the risk of getting infected.
3. Walking on Contaminated Soil
By walking on contaminated soil, your pet can pick up hookworms (they can penetrate through the skin) through the skin areas touching the infected soil, such as paws and the belly.
4. Consuming Other Infected Animals
Dogs can grab all four types of intestinal worms by eating any worm-infected animal, rodent, for example. The carcass of dead domestic animals, like, sheep can also contain harmful parasitic worms.
5. Fleas
The only intestinal worms that can be transferred through fleas are tapeworms. In fact, this is the only way they can be contracted with a dog. If your dog eats a tapeworm-infected flea, he will get infected.
It depends on the type of dewormer you use. Some can make your dog feel better within 24 hours, while others may take up to a week in some cases. If your dog is still having symptoms after a couple of days, call your vet as that could mean something else is wrong.
The length of time it takes for a dewormer to take effect can vary depending on the type of worm and the specific medication used. Your vet can provide an estimaated timeline for when you can expect to see improvement in your dog’s condition.
To ensure proper safety measures when administering the dewormer to your pet, you must:
- Wear gloves when administering the dewormer.
- Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and mouth.
- Avoid contact with clothing and surfaces (the same goes for your dog).
- Keep the dewormer away from children and pets.
If you accidentally touch the product, wash your hands with soap and water. If you get it in your eyes or mouth, rinse thoroughly with plenty of clean water.
The deworming pill is usually a chewable tablet. It’s important to give the pill to your dog at the right time and in the correct way to make sure it works properly.
There are several ways to give your dog a chewable tablet dewormer. You can either mix it with food or hide it in a treat.
- Mixing the tablet with food is the easiest way to get your dog to take his medicine, but it’s not always the most convenient. The best way to avoid having your dog spit out the tablet is by mixing it with his favorite food or treats, like peanut butter or cheese.
- If you don’t want to use these methods, you can hide the tablet for dogs in a treat. Dogs love meaty treats like beef jerky and chicken tenders, so they’re likely to gobble them up without realizing they have medicine inside.
- If you choose this method, make sure the treat has enough flavor so that your dog doesn’t notice anything unusual about it — otherwise, he’ll reject the entire thing before he has a chance to eat all of his medicine.
- Let your dog drink water before you give him the pill. Dogs with dry mouths can have trouble swallowing pills, so giving water first makes it easier for them to swallow.
- Monitor your dog after giving him his medication to make sure that there are no adverse reactions such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Treatment and Prevention
How to Worm Your Dog: Step by Step
De-worming your dog is not a difficult process. If you follow the steps below, you should be able to de-worm your dog with ease:
- Make sure the dog isn’t pregnant, as some dewormers aren’t safe for pregnant females. It is important to check with a vet before administering any medicines as there are exceptions to this rule depending on other factors such as the age and weight of the animal.
- Check the weight of your pet and measure out the right dose of dewormer accordingly
- Administer the dewormer according to the instructions on its label (instructions may vary depending on the brand). Most medications are administered orally but some are given by injection instead; check with a veterinarian (or an online veterinarian available 24/7 here) if you’re unsure how best to administer yours!
- Make sure your dog has access to water after taking a dewormer, as some can make dogs thirsty.
- Watch out for side effects.
- Check your dog’s stool (if you want confirmation that the dewormer worked) within 48 hours of giving it a dewormer, and continue checking every week until they are free of worms.
Natural Remedies for Treating Worms
As a proprietor of a domesticated animal, it is only rational to desire the utmost for one’s furry comrade. In regards to combating worms in canines, some individuals resort to natural means such as pumpkin seeds, garlic, and diatomaceous earth.
Although these remedies may appear to be a safe and efficacious option, it is crucial to keep in mind that they have not been extensively tested and validated by scientific research. Therefore, it is always wise to seek counsel from one’s veterinarian before attempting any alternative treatment. Your veterinarian can furnish you with the most appropriate guidance based on your canine’s specific needs and overall health
It is also worth noting that relying solely on these natural dewormers and remedies may not be the most efficacious method to treat worms in canines. While they may alleviate symptoms, they may not completely eradicate the problem.
This is particularly true if one’s dog is suffering from a severe worm infestation. In such instances, it is advisable to follow one’s veterinarian’s recommendations and employ prescribed medications to fully eradicate the worm infestation and prevent its recurrence.
In conclusion, natural remedies such as pumpkin seeds, garlic, and diatomaceous earth can serve as a beneficial supplement to traditional treatment for worms in canines, but it is essential to always seek counsel from one’s veterinarian first. They will be able to guide you and ensure that your canine receives the best care possible.
These are other natural solutions that can help treat worms in your dog:
- Homeopathic remedies (also called “holistic treatment”) – These involve the use of small amounts of substances that cause symptoms similar to those seen in the body, but at a much lower intensity. The idea is that taking a small amount of this substance will trigger an immune response which will then attack the infection and cure it. It’s important to note, however, that homeopathic treatments are not regulated by the FDA or any other government agency; so buyer beware!
- Herbal remedies – Herbal remedies for treating worms come from different sources such as plants or tree bark. They can be ingested orally or applied directly onto your dog’s skin with no side effects whatsoever!
- Supplements – Certain supplements contain nutrients like vitamins A & D which help keep internal parasites away from your pet’s intestinal tract when taken daily over time (between two weeks and several months).
How to Prevent Worms in Dogs?
If you want to avoid worm infestations in your dog, it’s important to keep their environment clean. You’ll need to do the following:
- Keep your dog food and water bowl clean at all times by washing it with hot soapy water after each use; this will prevent reinfection from occurring if any eggs were deposited there during previous meals/drinks. Some owners also choose to boil their pets’ bowls every week or two to kill off remaining eggs that may have survived the initial cleaning process (this shouldn’t be necessary for plastic bowls).
- Keep your dog’s environment clean. Wash his bedding regularly, as well as any toys or other objects that he uses regularly to prevent fleas and other parasites from gathering on them.
- Keep your dog clean. It might sound like an obvious thing to do, but a lot of owners forget that their pooches need baths from time to time. A dirty dog is more likely to get worms, so if you want to prevent worms in your dog, make sure you bathe them every month or so (or more often if they come in contact with dirt).
- Keep your yard clean. Worms are present in soil and on grass, so do not let your dog eat grass or soil. If you’re unsure of what type of worm is causing the problem, it’s best to err on the side of caution and keep him away from all types of dirt until you know for sure what’s going on.
- Clean grooming tools thoroughly after use. Even if your dog doesn’t have worms, they can be transferred when you groom them with anything that has been used on an infected animal before (including other dogs).
- If you have multiple animals living together under one roof—especially small ones like puppies—make sure they’re kept separate until all worms have been cleared up so as not to spread them further through contact with feces of infected dogs, etcetera
When to Deworm Puppies and Adult Dogs?
The initial deworming of a puppy should occur at 6, 8, and 10 weeks of age. Subsequently, a second deworming should be administered at 12 weeks of age. Following this, as the dog matures, it is recommended to continue deworming every three months.
However, for canines who spend a significant amount of time outdoors, particularly in areas where worms may be prevalent such as dirt or grassy regions, more frequent deworming may be necessary.
Worms in Dogs: Understanding the Problem
Some Major Problems Caused by Worms in Dogs
There are many serious problems that your dog might develop if they have worms. The following is a list of some of the most common problems:
- Digestive problems. The most common problem caused by worms in dogs is digestive issues, which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.
- Anemia. If your dog does not get dewormed on time or regularly enough, this can lead to anemia (a condition where the body does not receive enough oxygen to function properly).
- Weight loss or poor appetite is another sign that your dog may have worms in its system. Since many dogs don’t need many calories to survive (around 200 per day), even slight weight loss can go unnoticed by owners who aren’t paying attention or aren’t aware of what’s going on with their pet’s health overall. Other symptoms include vomiting and weakness in addition to having less energy than normal because the body doesn’t get enough nutrients from food when it has parasites inside of it!
- Diarrhea is probably one of the most common signs that your dog may be suffering from worms – especially tapeworms since these types tend not only to damage your pooch internally but externally as well.
The symptoms listed above are not the only ones that can occur when your dog is infected with worms.
There are many other possibilities, including skin irritation, itching, and ear infections; joint pain; and even more serious issues such as cancer or liver disease in some cases!
Symptoms of Worms in Dogs
As a dog owner, you must be aware of the signs showing that your dog is contracted parasitic worms. Though, the symptoms of each type of worm vary depending upon how the dog got affected.
Tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms, if not present in large numbers, don’t cause major health threats. However, sometimes roundworms can make dogs seriously ill.
Parasitic worms, other than tapeworms, are rarely seen. And, you cannot tell if your dog is contracted worms or not, just by looking.
The only way to help is, to check their poop and get it microscopically tested.
However, the general symptoms of worms in dogs include:
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Cough ( in case of roundworm and hookworm infections)
- Vomiting
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Blocked intestine (in severe cases infestations)
- Bloody stool (can be bright red or dark purple)
- Swollen abdomen
- Abdominal pain
- Dehydration
- Intestinal blockage or Pneumonia (in serious cases of roundworm)
- Poor coat appearance
- Unexplained weight loss
- Increased appetite
If you see any of these signs in your dog, take his stool sample for microscopic examination and start the treatment instantly. Early treatment can save your dog from drastic health threats and prevent the worm from spreading.
Even if you don’t notice any such signs in your dog, a better and wise action is to get your pooch’s poop annually diagnosed.
If you think your dog has a worm infestation, take them to the vet for a diagnosis and treatment.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
There are a few common mistakes that people make when deworming their dogs. One of the most common mistakes is using the wrong wormer. There are many different types of wormers available, and not all of them are effective against all types of worms. Additionally, some wormers can be more harmful than helpful if used incorrectly. It is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best wormer for your dog.
Another common mistake is not following the directions on the wormer package correctly. It is important to read the instructions carefully and follow them exactly to ensure that the wormer is effective. Many wormers require multiple doses, so it is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your veterinarian.
Finally, some people mistakenly believe that deworming their dogs once will protect them from worms for life. However, this is not the case. Dogs can become infected with worms at any time, and it is important to deworm them regularly as recommended by your veterinarian.
The answer is yes, worms can kill your dog. Many types of worms are parasites and some are known to be deadly. If left untreated, some worm infestations can cause serious health problems or even death in dogs.
There are several different types of worms that affect dogs to varying degrees. Some types of worms cause little to no harm to your dog’s health, while others could lead to death if left untreated for too long.
You must know the type and severity of worm infestation that your pet has so that you can choose the right treatment plan for them and avoid any side effects from over-treatment or under-treatment
Humans can contract worms from their dogs as well as from other canines, felines, and even other humans, acting as common vectors for various forms of intestinal parasites. Furthermore, consuming infected food and water, as well as exposure to soil tainted with worm eggs, are prevalent means of parasite transmission in both human and animal populations. Thus, it is crucial to be mindful of these potential sources of infection when devising methods for protecting against future worm infestations.
You may be wondering if a dog can still get worms after being treated for them. Yes, dogs can get worms after treatment. However, there are some things you can do to prevent this from happening and make sure your dog stays free of parasites.
When treating a dog for worms, it’s important to give him or her the right amount of dewormer so that all stages of the worm’s life cycle are destroyed. If only one stage is killed off while another remains alive in hiding, then your dog could become reinfested with more mature larvae later on down the road—even if he/she was treated correctly before!
This means that even though you’ve rid your pet of most adult worms currently living inside its body (at least those larvae), there will still be a chance that future larval stages might grow up into adult parasites again within six months if they’re not killed off completely by using correct dosages of medication at first pass through their systems during the treatment period(s).
To prevent this from happening again after initial de-worming procedures have been carried out successfully once upon entering adulthood: continue giving regular doses every month until year two has passed since initial administration took place; then drop down rate slightly until year three finishes up when dosage frequency should fall completely off schedule since no further need exists due to lack thereof!
Additional Considerations
- Deworming is an integral aspect of prophylactic care, it is imperative to maintain your canine’s health and forestall the transmission of worms to others.
- Deworming is also of paramount importance when it comes to dogs that have close human contact, such as service and therapy dogs, as they are more likely to transmit worms to humans. It is worth highlighting that regular visits to a veterinarian are recommended to keep your dog healthy, and they’ll aid you in keeping track of your dog’s deworming schedule and overall health status.
- In addition to deworming, keeping your dog’s milieu unsoiled and preventing them from consuming or coming into contact with contaminated soil or water can also assist in preventing worm infestations.
- Keep a watchful eye for any symptoms or changes in behavior or appetite, as it could be an indication of a worm infestation.
In summary, deworming is a vital element of preserving your dog’s health. It is essential to comprehend the different types of worms that can infect dogs, the symptoms to look for, and the best treatment options available. Keep your dog healthy by collaborating with your veterinarian and creating a prophylactic care plan that includes regular deworming, proper hygiene, and environmental management.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deworming Medicine for Dogs
De-wormers come in many different formations, such as chew tablets, powdered form, granule form, or liquid form. Also, there are different types of de-wormers available for large breeds, small breeds, and puppies.
Almost all types of worms reside in the intestinal tract of their host dog. In contrast, some of the worm types like tapeworms, hookworms, and roundworms target the stomach.
A de-wormer either diffuses the worm or makes it weaker and causes it to excrete its sucker through the intestinal tract in the dog’s poop.
But the treatment cannot kill the parasitic eggs or larvae. So, the treatment is carried on up until the eggs hatch, the larvae get mature, and are completely eliminated.
After deworming your dog, you may see dead worms in their feces. You may also see improvement in their appetite, coat, and energy levels. Your vet may recommend follow-up fecal exams to ensure that all the worms are gone.
Here is what you can expect after deworming your dog:
- The first hours of deworming: Most of the dewormers start working instantly.
- But, make sure your dog completely ingests the deworming chew tablets or powder-based medicine. Some dogs try spitting the medicine immediately or throw up after taking the dosage.
- If any such thing happens, ask your vet for advice.
- Deworming after a few days: After a few days, you’ll notice a visible reduction in worm extraction in your dog’s stool and an improvement in his health.
If you see any unexpected changes in your pet’s condition by following the treatment, consult your vet right away.
You can opt for over-the-counter non-prescription de-wormers. They are highly effective, easy to administer, and have no side effects.
Other ways to de-worm your dog by yourself are some natural and proven home remedies. Such as:
- Pumpkin seeds
- Chamomile
- Turmeric
- Apple cider vinegar
- Carrots
- Coconut
NEVER!!! Worms in dogs never go away on their own. However, some dogs can develop immunity against infections and live a happy life. But this is not the case for every dog out there.
Dogs will need some kind of medical assistance or deworming to get rid of the worms. Else, untreated dogs can experience serious ailments, lethargy, damage to internal organs, or death.
So, medical treatment or at-home de-worming is a MUST!
Dewormer for dogs is typically given in the form of chewable tablets or powders, which are administered orally. It is important to follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian, as improper dosing can lead to ineffective treatment or potentially harmful side effects. After administering dewormer, you may notice a reduction in the number of worms in your dog’s stool and an improvement in their overall health. If you have any concerns about the treatment, be sure to consult with your veterinarian.
There are a few natural remedies that have been shown to be effective in treating worms in dogs. These include using apple cider vinegar, pumpkin seeds, and
If you suspect that your dog has tapeworms, roundworms, or other parasites, it is important to consult your veterinarian for a diagnosis. These parasites can cause serious health problems for your dog if left untreated, so it is important to get started on treatment as soon as possible.
There are a few potential side effects of using deworming medicine for dogs, but these are usually mild and resolve on their own. The most common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. If your dog experiences any of these side effects, it is important to consult with your veterinarian. In most cases, these side effects can be easily managed and will not cause any long-term problems for your dog.
The cost of deworming a dog will vary depending on the type of wormer used and the dog’s individual weight and health history. In general, dewormers can range in cost from $10 to $100. However, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best wormer for your dog and to get an estimate of the total cost of treatment.
A dog can get worms even if they have been previously treated. This is because many different types of worms can infect dogs, and not all of them can be killed by the same wormer. Additionally, some worms can develop resistance to certain dewormers over time. If you think your dog may have worms, it is important to consult with your veterinarian for a diagnosis and to determine the best course of treatment.
A fecal exam by a veterinarian can identify the presence of worms inside your dog ‘s intestine.
Deworming typically does not cause any significant discomfort to your dog, but as with any medication, there is a possibility of side effects.
The time it takes to get rid of worms can vary depending on the type of worm and the specific medication used. Your vet can provide an estimated timeline for when you can expect to see improvement in your dog’s condition.
Some types of dog worms, particularly roundworms and tapeworms, can be transmitted to people. It is important to practice good hygiene and regularly deworm your dog to reduce the risk of transmission.
Final Thoughts
So, now that you know some of the best dog dewormers, it’s time to reveal our top pick.
The Excel Safe-Guard 4 Broad-Spectrum Dewormer is, by far, the best dewormer for dogs. This is a spot-on broad-spectrum product that has been clinically tested to be 100% safe for use in adult dogs and puppies over 6 weeks of age.
This product can be used as both a preventative as well as a treatment for common dog worms including roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. It also kills tapeworms!
This product has a great track record when it comes to safety with no side effects reported by users or studies conducted thus far. It’s an excellent choice if you are looking for an all-around dewormer that will treat and prevent multiple varieties of intestinal parasites common to dogs.
However, if you’re looking to buy a dewormer for your puppy, you must get one that is suitable for puppies. The same goes for small dogs and large dogs—if your dog is a large breed, then you will want to make sure that the dewormer you choose is appropriate for its size.
If you have multiple dogs at home, then it makes sense to buy a larger container of dewormer with multiple doses so that all of your animals can receive treatment at once.
The bottom line is that dewormers are a great tool to have on hand, but they should only be used if your dog has worms. If you’re not sure, it’s best to run some tests and check with your vet (or an online veterinarian available 24/7 here). If you do need a dewormer for your dog, there are plenty of options available in different forms and at various prices. We hope that this article has helped you find the right one for your pup!
