Playful by nature, dogs have their noses and mouths in everything – including the dirt. This eagerness to explore can make them more susceptible to worm infections. As part of responsible pet ownership, regular deworming is part of your dog’s preventive care routine.
However, with the wide variety of dewormers available in the market today, choosing the best one for your furry friend can be confusing. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the top 9 best dog worm treatments, based on customer reviews and our own research.
Worm Treatment: Why Is Choosing the Right One Important?
There are different types of worms that can infect dogs – roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. These parasites can cause a variety of health problems in your dog, and choosing the right one is important to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
Failure to get rid of the worms in your dog’s system can result in different health problems such as:
Anemia
Worms can cause anemia in three ways: by reducing the production of red blood cells, by destroying red blood cells, or by causing inflammation of the lining of the gut. This inflammation leads to bleeding, which can cause anemia. In addition, worms can also block the absorption of nutrients in the gut, leading to malnutrition and anemia.
Impairment of Growth and Development
Worms can impair growth and development in two ways: by causing anemia, as described above; or by damaging the liver and kidneys. These organs are responsible for detoxifying the body and removing waste products. If they are damaged, they cannot function properly, and this can lead to a build-up of toxins in the body, which can impair growth and development.
Diarrhea
Just like us, dogs can get diarrhea when they have a stomach bug. However, diarrhea can also be caused by worms. This is because the worms themselves can cause irritation and inflammation in the gut. Often, the presence of worms in the gut can also lead to a change in the bacterial balance, which can further contribute to diarrhea.
Weight Loss
When worms are present in the gut, they can compete with the dog for food. This means that the dog is not getting all the nutrients he needs, and this can lead to weight loss.
Vomiting
Vomiting is one of the most common symptoms of a worm infection. When the worms invade the stomach, they can cause irritation and inflammation. This can lead to nausea and vomiting, as the body tries to rid itself of the unwelcome intruders.
In some cases, the vomit may be tinged with blood, as worms can cause ulcers and bleeding in the digestive tract. In severe cases, vomiting may lead to dehydration and weight loss.
Lethargy
Lethargy is a feeling of overall tiredness or weakness. It can be accompanied by a lack of motivation and decreased energy levels. Lethargy can be caused by various health conditions, including anemia, dehydration, malnutrition, and worms. Worms can cause lethargy in several ways.
First, they can directly invade the muscles and tissues, causing irritation and inflammation. Second, they can steal nutrients from the host, leading to malnutrition and anemia. Third, they can produce toxins that can cause overall fatigue and weakness. Dogs with a severe worm infection may be too weak to stand or walk.
Poor Appetite
Worms can cause a poor appetite in two ways. First, they can directly invade the stomach and intestines, causing irritation and inflammation. This can lead to nausea and a decrease in appetite. And when a dog doesn’t have an appetite, it could possibly lead to weight loss. Second, worms can steal nutrients from the host, leading to malnutrition, making the dog less interested in food.
Pale Gums
Pale gums can be a sign of anemia, which, as we mentioned before, can be caused by worms. When the body doesn’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen around, the gums will start to look pale. In addition, pale gums can also be a sign of dehydration, as the body doesn’t have enough fluids to keep the gums healthy and hydrated.
Poor Coat Condition
A healthy coat is the hallmark of a healthy dog. However, worms can cause a number of problems that can lead to a dull, dry coat. In some cases, the skin may become irritated and inflamed, leading to excessive shedding.
In other cases, the hair may lose its luster and become brittle. In severe cases, the skin may even develop bald patches. All of these problems can be extremely distressing for both dogs and their owners. Fortunately, they are usually easy to treat with medication. However, it is important to catch the problem early in order to avoid long-term damage to the coat.
Best Dog Worm Treatment: Our Top Recommendations
Now that we’ve looked at some of the ways worms can impact your dog’s health, let’s take a look at some of the best dog worm treatments on the market.
1. Panacur C Canine Dewormer
Panacur C is a broad-spectrum dewormer that is effective against all major types of worms, including roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. It is available as a powder, which can be mixed with your dog’s food, or as a liquid suspension.
Most dogs tolerate Panacur C well, although some may experience mild side effects, such as diarrhea or vomiting. These side effects are usually short-lived and should resolve within a few days.
Panacur C comes in three sizes: small (for dogs up to 20 pounds), medium (for dogs 21-50 pounds), and large (for dogs over 50 pounds). Its active ingredient, pyrantel pamoate, kills all types of worms within 24 hours and is safe to use for puppies, pregnant, and nursing dogs.
2) Bayer Quad Chewable Tablets
When it comes to protecting your pup from nasty parasites, Quad Chewable Tablets are at the top of the class. These chewable tablets pack a powerful punch, thanks to their active ingredient: pyrantel pamoate. Pyrantel pamoate works by paralyzing the parasites, which are then eliminated through your dog’s digestive system.
Since Quad Chewable Tablets can be given with or without food, they’re easy to administer – even to the pickiest of eaters. Best of all, they’re effective against a wide range of common parasites, that are often found in dogs, including roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms.
Quad Chewable Tablets are available in four sizes: small (for dogs up to 5 pounds), medium (for dogs 6-25 pounds), large (for dogs 26-50 pounds), and extra-large (for dogs over 50 pounds).
3) SENTRY 7 Way De-Wormer HC for Small Dogs
This powerful formula eliminates seven strains of worms, including roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. Specifically formulated for dogs and puppies, SENTRY 7 Way De-Wormer is safe to use on animals as young as two weeks old.
It comes as a chewable tablet, making it easy to give to your pet. And, since it can be given with or without food, there’s no need to worry about finicky eaters. One of the few de-wormers available without a prescription, SENTRY 7 Way De-Wormer is a convenient and effective way to keep your dog free of worms. Best of all, it is affordably priced, so you can easily address any worming issues that may arise.
4) Durvet Triple Wormer (M-L Dogs)
Durvet Triple Wormer is an excellent all-around dewormer that will kill three of the most common types of worms in dogs. Formulated in an easy to give, beef-flavored chewable tablet, Durvet Triple Wormer is safe for use in dogs over 4 weeks of age. It is also affordably priced, and easy to administer, making it a great choice for busy pet parents. If your dog is dealing with a heavy worm burden, you may need to give them a second dose of treatment 2 to 4 weeks after the initial dose.
This worm treatment is suitable for medium to large dogs and starts working within 24 hours. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions when giving this medication to your pet, as an overdose can be harmful.
5) Pyrantel Suspension
Pyrantel suspension is an effective oral treatment for pinworms. Pinworms are the most common type of worm infection in the United States. The active ingredient in pyrantel suspension, pyrantel pamoate, works by paralyzing the worms, which are then eliminated through your dog’s stool. Pyrantel suspension is safe for use in puppies and dogs over four weeks of age.
It should be noted that pyrantel suspension does not kill tapeworms. If your dog is also infected with tapeworms, you will need to use a separate medication to treat them. Made in the USA, this is a safe and effective way to treat your dog for pinworms.
Pyrantel suspension is available over the counter from your veterinarian or online.
6) PetArmor 7 Way De-Wormer
PetArmor 7 Way De-Wormer is a popular choice for pet owners looking for an effective way to treat their dog’s worms. The de-wormer comes in a chewable tablet form, making it easy to administer to your dog. The active ingredients in the de-wormer work to kill the worms in your dog’s digestive system, providing relief from the symptoms associated with worms.
As a broad-spectrum de-wormer, PetArmor 7 Way De-Wormer is effective against a variety of common worms, and is safe for use in dogs of all life stages, from puppies to adult dogs. Safe to be administered to puppies 12 weeks of age and older, the de-wormer is available without a prescription from your veterinarian.
Side effects of the de-wormer are rare, but may include vomiting or diarrhea. If your dog experiences any side effects, contact your veterinarian immediately.
7) Elanco Tapeworm Dewormer Tablets
Elanco Tapeworm Dewormer Tablets are an easy, effective way to remove common tapeworms from dogs. The tablets may be crushed and mixed with food, or given whole. They start working within 24 hours to kill tapeworms and help keep your dog healthy.
This powerful dewormer is safe for puppies and dogs of all ages and can be used as often as needed. Take note that it is safe to be administered to puppies 4 weeks and older. This is considered the go-to dewormer for most pet parents since it is very effective in eliminating tapeworms.
8) Durvet 2x Liquid Wormer
Looking for a safe and easy-to-use wormer that removes large roundworms and hookworms from puppies, adult dogs, and lactating dogs? Look no further than the Durvet 2x Liquid Wormer. Its double strength formula is perfect for all stages of life, and the palatable flavor makes administration easier than ever! Plus, you don’t have to withhold food prior to use. Simply give your dog the recommended dosage based on their weight and you’re good to go!
Can be used on puppies as early as 2 weeks old.
9) Safe-Guard Canine 8-in-1 Dewormer
When it comes to dewormers, especially for puppies, you can’t go wrong with Safe-Guard. This 8-in-1 wormer not only removes common roundworms and hookworms, but also helps to control whipworms, tapeworms, and other strains. Safe-Guard is also safe for use in pregnant dogs and puppies as young as two weeks old.
Final Thoughts
Worm treatments come in different forms – oral medications, suspensions, chewable tablets and more. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, so it’s important to choose the wormer that is best for your dog and their particular situation. Make sure that you carefully get your dog’s weight, as this will help you determine the right dosage for them.
Bear in mind that these treatments only kill adult worms. To prevent re-infection, it’s important to practice good hygiene and clean up after your dog promptly. It is not recommended for severe cases of worms. If your dog is showing signs of severe illness, such as weight loss, lethargy, or diarrhea, please consult your veterinarian immediately.
