What is the Best Dewormer for Puppies?

Deworming is a crucial aspect of maintaining the health and well-being of puppies. Dewormers are medications designed to eliminate internal parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms, which commonly infest and harm young dogs. As a result, implementing an effective deworming protocol is essential to prevent negative outcomes of parasitic infections. 

Choosing the best dog dewormer for puppies depends on various factors, including the type of parasites present and the puppy's age, weight, and health status. Veterinarians typically recommend broad-spectrum dewormers targeting multiple parasites to ensure comprehensive protection. As always, pet parents must consult with their vets to determine the most suitable deworming schedule and product for their specific pup. 

Keep reading to learn about the best dewormers for puppies. 

• Worms in Puppies
• What is the Best Deworming Medicine for Puppies?
• FAQs
• Final Notes

Worms in Puppies 

Worms refer to various intestinal parasites, the four most common being hookworms, whipworms, roundworms, and tapeworms. 

Hookworms pose a significant threat to puppies because they’re intestinal parasites that suck blood, potentially causing anemia.¹ These worms resemble tiny, thin strings when found in feces. Puppies can contract these worms through contact with infected soil or feces or via infected milk from their mother. 

Whipworms are another type of intestinal worm found in puppies. They don’t always have symptoms but have an extended lifespan in the environment, which makes them easy to spread. Dogs can get whipworms the same way they get other types of worms — ingesting anything contaminated with the parasites. 

Roundworms are another common intestinal parasite. These worms look similar to hookworms but don’t suck blood, so they’re less of a threat. However, they can lead to stunted growth and gastrointestinal (GI) issues. Roundworms eat the undigested food in the puppy’s intestinal tract, preventing the dog from getting the nutrients they need to grow up big and strong. 

Tapeworms occur when your puppy consumes animals, fleas, or other insects carrying tapeworm larvae. You can see tapeworms in stool as flat and segmented, resembling small grains of rice.¹

Symptoms 

Different worms cause different symptoms. For instance, some may be noticeable in puppy feces or around their rectal area, while others may have no symptoms at all.¹ In general, puppies with worms may exhibit various symptoms that can signal a parasitic infection, such as: 

• Vomiting: Persistent vomiting can indicate a parasitic infection. You may even be able to see worms in the puppy’s vomit. 
• Diarrhea: Changes in bowel movements, such as diarrhea or the presence of blood in the stool, can be a symptom of certain worm infestations. 
• Weight loss: Worms compete with the puppy for nutrients, potentially leading to weight loss or failure to thrive despite a regular, healthy diet. 
• Bloated abdomen: Some puppies with worms may develop a swollen or distended abdomen, a condition known as potbelly, due to the accumulation of gas or fluid. 
• Lethargy: Infected Puppies may appear lethargic, lacking the usual energy levels expected for their age. 
• Scratching or scooting: Puppies with anal irritation due to worms may exhibit increased scratching or scooting behavior. 
• Poor coat condition: A deteriorating coat, including dryness, dullness, or excessive shedding, can be indicative of underlying health issues, including worm infestations. 
• Tender belly: Puppies with severe worm infestations may experience abdominal discomfort, leading to abdominal pain.² 

Causes 

Puppies can get worms from various sources, and the causes of worms in puppies are often linked to their environment, interactions, and maternal transmission. The most common causes of worms in puppies include the following: 

• Maternal transmission: Puppies can be born with worms if their mother is infected. Certain worms, like roundworms, can be transmitted to puppies through the mother’s milk or during pregnancy. 
• Contaminated environment: Worm eggs and larvae can persist in contaminated environments such as soil, grass, or feces. Puppies exploring or playing in areas with worm-contaminated soil may ingest these parasites. 
• Eating infected animals: Puppies can contract worms by consuming the tissues of infected animals or hunting and eating small rodents, birds, or insect-carrying worm larvae. 
• Fecal-oral transmission: Puppies can ingest worms, eggs, or larvae by coming into contact with contaminated feces from infected animals. This commonly occurs in shared spaces like dog parks or areas frequented by various animals, like walking trails. 
• Ingestion of contaminated food or water: Water or food contaminated with worm eggs or larvae can infect puppies.¹

What is the Best Deworming Medicine for Puppies?

The choice of the best deworming medicine for puppies depends on various factors, including the types of worms present, the puppy’s age, weight, and overall health. Which dewormer is best for puppies ultimately depends on what you and your vet decide together. Commonly used deworming medications for puppies contain ingredients that target several types of worms at once. However, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best dewormer for puppies. Additionally, these medicines require prescriptions from a vet who will diagnose your dog before determining the best treatment plan. 

Dewormers work by targeting specific types of parasites and disrupting their life cycle. Medications effective against hookworms and roundworms paralyze and eliminate parasites from the digestive tract. Meanwhile, other medications can cause the worms to dissolve within the intestine, while others starve the worms. A few of the best dewormers for puppies include: 

PetArmor 7 Way Dewormer

PetArmor 7 Way Dewormer is one of the best OTC dewormers for puppies. The “7 Way” in its name indicates its effectiveness against multiple types of worms, including: 

• Two types of tapeworms
• Two types of roundworms
• Three types of hookworms

This treatment is available without a prescription, meaning if you believe your dog has worms, you don’t have to go to the vet for a prescription. However, even with over-the-counter medications, we always recommend consulting with your vet first to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment. 

Common side effects of PetArmor 7 Way Dewormer include vomiting, loose stools, and decreased activity.³ 

Interceptor Plus

Interceptor Plus is a broad-spectrum parasiticide. It’s formulated with two active ingredients: Milbemycin oxime and praziquantel. Milbemycin oxime interferes with the nervous system of parasitic worms, leading to paralysis and elimination from the puppy’s system. It’s effective against various intestinal parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. On the other hand, praziquantel specifically targets tapeworms, eventually leading to the worm’s disintegration within the digestive tract. 

Interceptor Plus is known for its effectiveness against the following types of intestinal parasites: 

• Roundworms
• Hookworms
• Whipworms
• Tapeworms

While generally tolerated well amongst puppies, a study reported that general side effects in nursing puppies at 2, 4, and 6 weeks of age experienced tremors, vocalization, and ataxia — loss of coordination. Luckily, these side effects resolved on their own within 1-2 days.⁴ One thing to keep in mind is that Interceptor Plus is not the best dewormer for newborn puppies because it’s only designed for those six weeks of age or older. 

Drontal Plus 

Drontal Plus is another broad-spectrum dewormer and one of the best dewormers for newborn puppies because it’s formulated for dogs and puppies three weeks of age or older. It targets and eliminates several types of intestinal parasites commonly found in dogs. Drontal Plus is a combination medication that contains three active ingredients: Praziquantel, pyrantel pamoate, and febantel. 

Veterinarians commonly prescribe this puppy dewormer for the treatment and control of the following intestinal parasites in dogs and puppies: 

• Tapeworms
• Roundworms
• Hookworms
• Whipworms

While it’s generally well-tolerated like the others on this list, potential side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, and loss of appetite.⁵ 

Preventive Worm Medicine

As discussed, some puppies are born with worms. However, after treatment, it’s crucial to continue protecting them to prevent another infestation. Common products vets prescribe to protect your puppy from worms in the future include: 

• Sentinel (heartworm preventive): Sentinel for Dogs is a comprehensive preventive medication designed to protect dogs against various internal parasites. It’s a prescription-only product that combines milbemycin oxime and lufenuron. Sentinel is known for its effectiveness against several types of parasites, providing both heartworm prevention and control of certain common intestinal worms. This medication is typically administered monthly.⁶ 
• Heartgard Plus (heartworm preventive): Heartgard Plus is a widely used prescription medication designed to protect against heartworm disease and certain intestinal parasites in dogs. It’s a flavored, chewable tablet that makes administration easy for pet parents. Heartgard Plus is formulated with two active ingredients: ivermectin and pyrantel pamoate. In addition to heartworm prevention, Heartgard Plus provides protection against common roundworms and hookworms. Like Sentinel, it’s typically administered on a monthly basis to ensure continuous protection. 
• Selarid (heartworm preventive): Selarid for Dogs is a monthly topical solution designed to protect your pet from a variety of parasites. This preventive medication shields against flea infestations, heartworm disease, ear mites, ticks, and sarcoptic mange. It contains selamectin to offer a protective barrier for your pet. With its easy-to-apply, quick-drying, non-greasy formula, Selarid ensures a hassle-free application process for pet parents. 

FAQs

Can I deworm my puppies myself?

Deworming puppies is an important aspect of their healthcare, and while OTC deworming options are available, you should always consult a vet before attempting to deworm them yourself. Veterinarians can accurately diagnose the type of worms affecting your puppy through fecal testing. 

Additionally, veterinary-prescribed dewormers are specifically formulated for puppies, taking into account factors like age, weight, and overall health. Using the wrong dewormer or administering an incorrect dosage can be ineffective or potentially harmful. 

Veterinarians can also provide guidance on a comprehensive deworming schedule, which is crucial for preventing future infestations. Regular vet check-ups help ensure that your puppy is protected against a variety of parasites. 

Does over-the-counter dewormer work for puppies?

Yes, over-the-counter dewormers are available, and some can effectively treat certain types of intestinal parasites. However, it’s crucial to approach their use with caution. OTC dewormers may target specific types of worms, such as roundworms or hookworms. Choosing a product that addresses the specific parasites affecting your puppy is essential. 

Keep in mind that while OTC dewormers can be useful, accurately identifying the type of worms affecting your puppy is critical. A misdiagnosis may lead to ineffective treatment, as different worms require different medications. 

Always consult with a veterinarian before using OTC dewormers. They can diagnose the type of worm, recommend the appropriate medication, and provide guidance on dosage and administration. 

How many times do you deworm a puppy?

Puppies are put on a deworming schedule depending on their needs. Puppies are typically dewormed starting at a very young age, often as early as 2 to 3 weeks old. Deworming is often done on a regular schedule, with treatments repeated every 2 to 4 weeks until the puppy is around 16 weeks old. After the initial deworming series, vets recommend monthly preventive medications to protect against common intestinal parasites. 

Final Notes 

Using the best dewormer for puppies ensures your dog’s health. The best dewormer for puppies depends on various factors, including the specific types of worms present and the puppy’s age. Seeking professional veterinary guidance is crucial for accurate diagnosis and ensuring your puppy stays on their deworming schedule. 

Understanding the common types of worms, their symptoms, and the causes of infestations is essential for proactive puppy care. Additionally, preventive measures like regular vet check-ups and preventive medications contribute to puppies' overall health and protection against intestinal parasites. 

With a Dutch membership, you can schedule an online vet consultation and work closely with a vet to determine the best deworming schedule and find the right treatment for all your dog’s ailments. You can also get prescriptions from our online pet pharmacy delivered to your doorstep. Try Dutch today to find the best puppy dewormer for your dog.