Lily qualified from Liverpool University in 2011 and spent 5 years as a veterinarian working in mixed animal practice. As Lily’s passion for exotics and exploring more complicated small animal medical cases developed, she stepped into small animal-only practice. By 2018 Lily was leading a busy branch of a large hospital practice with a fantastic team, enjoying working on both surgical and medical cases. Since falling poorly in 2021 Lily has found a new passion in medical writing. Sharing medical knowledge and writing for the public is a particular passion.
Protecting your dog’s health means guarding them against parasites such as worms and ticks, which can quietly cause serious problems if left untreated.
From how dogs pick them up to spotting the warning signs, regular worming is a key part of responsible pet care.
Veterinary surgeon Dr Lily Richards explains how worms affect dogs, how to recognise an infection, plus the best ways to treat and prevent them.
Dogs can become infected with worms in several everyday ways, including:
Puppies are particularly vulnerable, as worms can be passed from mother to pup either during pregnancy or through milk while nursing.
If worms aren’t treated promptly, they can lead to a range of health issues such as digestive upset, weight loss and anaemia.
In severe cases – especially in puppies, elderly dogs or those with weakened immune systems – worm infestations can be life-threatening. This is why routine worming and early treatment are essential for keeping your dog well.
Common symptoms of worms in dogs include:
Worms aren’t always easy to spot, and some dogs show very mild symptoms. If you’re concerned, contact your vet before the condition worsens.
Several types of worms can affect dogs. The most commonly seen include:
Avoid trying to diagnose the type yourself. If you spot worms, safely collect a sample and take it to your vet, who can identify the parasite and prescribe the correct treatment.
The time it takes for worming tablets to work depends on the type of worm and how severe the infestation is – something your vet can advise on.
In most cases, treatment kills existing worms within 24 hours. However, worming tablets don’t prevent reinfection, which is why ongoing preventative treatment is so important.
It’s also vital to keep up to date with flea treatments, as fleas can carry tapeworm eggs and reintroduce infection.
Regular worming is the most effective way to protect your dog from worms, but there are additional steps you can take to reduce the risk:
Worming schedules vary depending on your dog’s age, lifestyle and exposure risk.
Puppies should be wormed every two weeks until 12 weeks old, then monthly until six months
Adult dogs should usually be wormed at least every three months, though some may need more frequent treatment
Your vet will recommend a schedule tailored specifically to your dog’s needs.
Some dogs may experience mild side effects such as vomiting or diarrhoea after worming, but these symptoms are usually short-lived.
If your dog appears unwell or symptoms persist, speak to your vet for advice.
Yes – pregnant dogs can be wormed safely using products designed specifically for use during pregnancy.
Vets commonly recommend worming:
In some cases, ongoing treatment throughout pregnancy may be advised, so always follow your vet’s guidance.
While certain worms can pass from dogs to humans, this is relatively uncommon. Most canine worms cannot survive in people.
Good hygiene – such as washing hands after handling dogs and keeping up with regular worming – significantly reduces any risk.
Yes. Many dogs with worms show few or no obvious signs, especially in the early stages of an infestation. Even healthy-looking dogs can carry worms and pass them on to other animals or contaminate their environment.
Routine worming helps protect your dog before problems develop and reduces the risk of worms spreading to other pets or, in rare cases, humans. Your vet can advise on the safest timing.
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