Sep 22, 2025
Unlike fleas and ticks, worms are invisible invaders that can quietly wreak havoc on your beloved pet’s overall well-being. Therefore, deworming in dogs is crucial to ensure protection against these threats that lurk beneath the surface. But with so many options available in the market, how do you know which dewormer is right for your dog? Don’t fret!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about deworming. You’ll learn how to spot the signs of infestations and the factors to consider when selecting the right dewormer. We’ll also discuss some popular deworming treatments for dogs to simplify your research.
Let’s get started!
Worms in dogs are more dangerous than you may think. First of all, unlike fleas and ticks, worms are not visible to the naked eye and can go undetected for months. Thus, they can silently become a big problem, and if left untreated, may lead to grim consequences such as organ failure or death. Look out for the following signs to take timely measures and give your dog the fighting chance:
The frequency of deworming in dogs depends on various factors. Here’s a general idea:
Puppies (2 – 12 weeks): Every 2 weeks.
Puppies (3 - 6 months): Every month.
Adult Dogs (6 months & older): Every 3 to 6 months.
Senior Dogs: Every 3 to 6 months.
Indoor Dogs: Every 3 to 6 months.
What works for one dog may not be suitable for another. It is best to consult a veterinarian for tailored deworming guidelines.
Now that you know the common symptoms and frequency of deworming, let’s discuss the factors to consider when selecting the ideal dewormer for your dog.
Different wormers are formulated to target different worms in dogs; thus, it’s important to identify the type of worm. The most common worms include roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. You can choose a broad-spectrum wormer or employ a targeted wormer after recognizing the type of worm your dog is infected with.
Several dewormers are formulated with specific dosages for dogs and puppies of a particular age and weight category. Therefore, consider your pet’s age and weight and always check the label before selecting the right wormer. Giving the wrong dosage can be ineffective or may lead to adverse reactions.
Along with age and weight, it’s also crucial to consider that the dewormer you select is suitable for your dog’s breed and any existing health condition. Also, note that some dewormers are not suitable for pregnant dogs.
For the convenience of different types of pets and pet parents, dewormers come in various forms, such as chewable tablets, pastes, liquid syrups, and spot-on treatments. Select the deworming method that matches your dog’s comfort level. For instance, a flavored chew or a spot-on treatment can be a good option for picky eaters, and suspension is ideal for puppies.
Your dog’s individual deworming schedule is decided based on their lifestyle and exposure to worms. Therefore, some dogs may need more frequent deworming than others. Make sure you understand how often your pet needs deworming and how it fits in your routine.
The best way to select the ideal dewormer is to consult your vet. They will examine your dog and consider their medical history before suggesting a suitable dewormer. Moreover, they will provide you with a deworming schedule best suited for your dog.
Here are some of the most popular deworming treatments for dogs that you can look into:
Triworm-D is a potent oral dewormer formulated with Praziquantel, Pyrantel pamoate, and Febantel as the active ingredients. Suitable for all dogs, including puppies, adults, and old dogs, these tablets treat and control ascarids, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms.
Panacur Granules is a broad-spectrum wormer to protect dogs and puppies against a range of gastrointestinal worms. Featuring Fenbendazole as the active ingredient, this wormer treats and controls roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms.
Milpro Allwormer is a popular multiwormer featuring Praziquantel and Milbemycin Oxime. Suitable for dogs and puppies from 2 weeks of age, weighing at least 1.1 lbs, these liver-flavor, film-coated tablets treat and control roundworms, whipworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. It also helps prevent heartworm disease.
Protecting dogs against worms may feel overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and intention, it’s not that difficult. With the information covered in this comprehensive blog, you can take timely measures and ensure your pet’s safety.
A: An excess dose can result in adverse reactions in your dog, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and, in severe cases, organ damage. Puppies are especially vulnerable due to their developing systems.
A: Essentially, yes, you can administer over-the-counter and use natural remedies, but professional guidance is highly recommended. It’s best to consult your vet, as they can identify the type of worm and recommend the best-suited treatment for your dog.
A: In most cases, yes, you can give both treatments on the same day. However, make sure you check the specific product label for compatibility or consult your vet.
A: The exact timing will depend on your pet’s weight and the veterinarian’s recommendation. Typically, you can switch from deworming suspension to tablets around 6 months of age.
Dewormers usually start working within a few hours of administration. The effects will be visible in 24-48 hours, and you may notice worms in your dog’s stool. Full elimination can take a few days, depending on the type of worm and the severity of the infestation. If symptoms persist, consult your vet for further dosages.