Knowing how to get rid of worms in dogs starts with recognising the possible signs and understanding which treatment may be appropriate. This guide explains what to look out for, what to do if you suspect your dog has worms, and how to help reduce the risk of reinfection.
| Key Takeaways
If you suspect your dog has worms, speak to your vet for advice on the most appropriate next steps. If you're looking for a suitable product, shop over-the-counter worming treatments for dogs. |
How Do I Know If My Dog Has Worms?
Worm infections can be difficult to spot because not all dogs show obvious symptoms. Some dogs may appear completely healthy even when they have a worm infection.
Possible signs your dog has worms include:
- Worms or segments in stool, vomit, or around the anus
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Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
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Coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing (lungworm)
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Diarrhoea (sometimes with blood) or vomiting
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A dull, brittle coat or hair loss
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Scooting or itching around the rear
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A swollen, pot-bellied appearance (especially in puppies)
If your dog shows any of these signs, or you’re concerned they may have worms, speak to your vet for advice.
Remember, dogs don’t always show symptoms when they have worms. "Worms are a common issue in pet dogs, so it's important to have a good parasite prevention plan in place to keep them burden free", Dr Nicholas Garside states.
How to Treat Worms in Dogs
Maintaining an appropriate worming routine can help protect your dog against worm infections. But if you suspect your dog has worms, it’s important to establish which type of parasite may be involved and choose a suitable treatment.
Different worming products target different parasites, so there isn’t one treatment that is right for every type of worm. If your dog has symptoms, you’ve noticed worms in their stool, or you’re unsure which treatment they need, speak to your vet for advice before choosing a product.
| Treatment format | Pros | Cons | Typically covers |
| Over-the-counter tablets | A convenient option for many dogs. Some can be given directly or disguised in food, following the product instructions. | Some dogs may be reluctant to take tablets. Coverage varies between products. | Roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms |
| Over-the-counter liquids, pastes and sachets | May be easier to administer to some dogs, including puppies, where the product is suitable for their age and weight. | The amount needed can vary with your dog’s size, and not every formulation treats the same types of worms. | Roundworms, hookworms, whipworms |
| Prescription treatments | A vet can advise on treatment based on the suspected parasite and your dog’s individual circumstances. | Require a prescription, which may involve extra cost and a vet visit. | Lungworm plus common intestinal worms* |
*The most common cause of Canine Lungworm in the UK can only be treated and protected against using prescription only products containing milbemycin or moxidectin.
Is There an Alternative to Worming Tablets for Dogs?
If your dog struggles with tablets, alternatives may include liquids, pastes, sachets or certain spot-on treatments. However, not all products treat the same types of worms, so check the instructions and ask your vet if you’re unsure which option is right for your dog.
Tips for giving your dog tablets:
If tablets are the most appropriate option for your dog, these tips may make them easier to give:
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Hide the tablet in a treat: (like cheese, sausage, or a pill pocket)
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Try using a pill giver if your dog refuses to take them
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Always follow the dosage instructions carefully and how to administer it. If your dog spits out the tablet or vomits after taking it, contact your vet for advice before giving another dose
What Kills Worms in Dogs Instantly?
“Wormers start working to kill worms as soon as they reach the part of the gut system that the worms are living in, which is usually either almost immediately or within a few hours” VioVet vet, Dr Nicholas Garside BVetMed MRCVS states. “The time it takes to kill these worms and clear them out though is usually longer and varies based on the active ingredient. Wormers that are licensed medications may share this information in the ‘5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties’ section of their datasheet”.
In general, you can expect to see dead or dying worms in your dog’s faeces from 24 hours and up to 5 days after administering a wormer.
Preventing Worms from Coming Back
Prevention is just as important as treatment. To reduce the risk of reinfection:
- Consistent worming – stick to a schedule based on your dog’s risk level.
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Regular flea treatments – fleas can transmit tapeworms, so protect your dog year-round by also carrying out regular dog flea treatments.
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Clean environment – pick up faeces promptly and keep living areas clean.
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Safe diet – avoid feeding raw or undercooked meat.
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Reduce scavenging - recall your dog when they attempt to scavenge, particularly on other dog’s faeces, wildlife remains and slugs/snails
For more information about worming frequency, read our guide: How often to flea and worm dogs.
Keep Your Dog Protected
Preventing worms is just as important as treating them. Maintaining an appropriate worming routine, practising good hygiene and keeping up with flea treatment can help reduce the risk of infection and reinfection. If you suspect your dog has worms, speak to your vet for advice, as the right treatment depends on the type of parasite involved and your dog's individual needs.
If you already know which product you need, browse VioVet's range of over-the-counter dog worming treatments.
Written by: VioVet
