Worms in Puppies - Symptoms and Treatment

There are four main types of intestinal worms in puppies that owners should be aware of:

• Roundworms in puppies - These worms are long, white, and resemble spaghetti. Puppies can acquire roundworms from their mother prior to birth in the womb (the worm larvae can cross the placenta) or soon after birth via the milk. They can also get roundworms by ingesting eggs from contaminated environments. Dogs with adult roundworms shed eggs in their faeces and these eggs can survive for years. Roundworms are zoonotic, meaning they can infect humans and pose significant health risks.
• Hookworms in puppies – Hookworms are small compared to roundworms but they have sharp, biting mouthparts and feed on blood. Heavy infestations can lead to serious blood loss. Puppies may ingest larvae from soil or sand, or larvae may penetrate their skin. Hookworms are also a zoonotic concern.
• Whipworms in puppies – These worms are small and also feed on blood. Puppies become infected by ingesting eggs from contaminated environments. Whipworm eggs also remain viable for years. Whipworms are not zoonotic.
• Tapeworms in puppies - Tapeworms are less common in young puppies. Infection typically occurs through ingestion of intermediate hosts, like fleas, or raw meat or offal. Puppies do not get tapeworms directly from eggs or larvae in the environment.

Symptoms of intestinal worms in puppies vary depending on the type and severity of infection. Some worms may cause minimal symptoms in small numbers, but regular deworming helps keep infestations under control. Monitor your puppy’s faeces for anything unusual. 

Symptoms of worms in puppies can include:

• Diarrhoea or vomiting
• Blood in the faeces
• Swollen abdomen
• Visible worms in faeces, vomit or around the bottom
• Itchy bottom
• Weight loss

When looking for the best dewormer for your puppy, the choice can be overwhelming due to the variety of products available. Options include puppy deworming tablets and combination treatments that target both internal and external parasites. Always check:

• Minimum age and weight requirements
• Which worms the product is effective against

If unsure, consult your veterinarian to ensure you select the most appropriate product for your puppy’s needs.

Using an effective parasite control product is an essential part of owning and caring for a puppy. NexGard SPECTRA^® Chewables for Dogs provides the most complete protection against fleas, worms, ticks and mites, all in one tasty, monthly chew. NexGard SPECTRA chews are perfect for rapidly growing puppies, due to its monthly treatment frequency, and is safe in puppies from as young as 8 weeks of age and weighing at least 1.35 kg. 

Most deworming products begin working within hours, and puppies typically continue behaving normally. Depending on the type and number of worms, after deworming your puppy you may notice worms passed in the faeces over the next couple of days. Some worms are very small or are broken down internally and may not be visible.

While most puppies tolerate worming tablets well, some may experience mild side effects after deworming such as:

• Vomiting shortly after administration
• Temporary lethargy or quietness

Talk to your vet if your puppy feels unwell after a deworming treatment.

Puppies are vulnerable to worm infections early in life, often from their mother. Their immature immune systems make worm prevention for puppies especially important. A recommended puppy worming schedule is:

• 2-12 weeks of age - Deworm every 2 weeks
• 12 weeks to 6 months – Monthly treatments
• 6 months and older – Frequency depends on lifestyle and zoonotic risk. Monthly deworming may be advised for active puppies or households with children. For low-risk pets, deworming every 3 months is the maximum interval recommended for roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.

Tapeworm treatment frequency depends on exposure to fleas, raw meat, or scavenging habits. Effective worm prevention for flea tapeworms includes good flea control.