“A healthy puppy is a happy puppy,” say many pet owners, but ensuring that happiness often starts with tackling a common yet invisible threat: intestinal worms. Worms like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms are so prevalent in puppies that the American Kennel Club estimates up to 75% of puppies are born with worms.
While commercial dewormers are widely available, many dog owners are turning to natural alternatives to keep their furry friends safe from chemicals. If you’re wondering, “How can I deworm my puppy naturally?”, this guide will walk you through proven methods, backed by science and real-world use, to eliminate worms gently and effectively.
Why Natural Deworming Matters for Puppies
Puppies are more vulnerable to worms than adult dogs. Their immune systems are still developing, and they often pick up parasites from their mother’s milk, contaminated environments, or even fleas. Commercial dewormers, while effective, can sometimes cause side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, especially in young puppies. Natural remedies, on the other hand, leverage ingredients found in kitchens and nature to disrupt worms’ life cycles without harming the puppy. These methods are often safer, more affordable, and just as effective when used correctly.
Natural Ways to Deworm Your Puppy
You don’t always need strong medicines to get rid of worms. Natural methods can work well, especially for mild cases, and they’re gentler on your puppy’s system. Here are some easy, safe options to try.
- Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are a superfood for deworming. They contain an amino acid called cucurbitin , which paralyzes worms and prevents them from attaching to the puppy’s intestinal walls. This makes it easier for the worms to pass through the digestive system. Ground pumpkin seeds can be mixed into a puppy’s food or blended into a paste. For a 10-pound puppy, a teaspoon of raw, ground pumpkin seeds are common starting dose. Repeat this every three days for a week to ensure all worms are eliminated.
- Diatomaceous Earth is a fine powder made from tiny fossilized algae, but it has to be the food-grade kind (not the stuff for pools!). It dries out worms, helping your puppy get rid of them. Sprinkle a tiny pinch into their food at first, watch how they react, and increase it slightly if they’re okay. Don’t overdo it and ask your vet for the right amount based on your puppy’s size.
- Black cumin seeds are another powerful natural dewormer. These seeds contain thymoquinone, a compound that disrupts the lifecycle of worms and flushes them out of the body. To use them, crush a small amount (about half a teaspoon for a medium-sized puppy) and mix it with water or broth. Give it to your puppy once daily for five days. The bitter taste can be masked by adding a spoonful of plain yogurt or honey.
- Garlic contains allicin, a compound that acts as a natural anthelmintic (a substance that kills parasites). It’s particularly effective against roundworms and hookworms. However, use garlic sparingly —a small clove (about 1/16th of a human dose) finely chopped and added to food is safe for puppies older than 6 weeks. Always consult a vet before using garlic, as excessive amounts can be toxic to dogs.
- Unripe (green) papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which breaks down the outer layers of worms, making them easier to expel. Mash a small piece of green papaya and mix it with your puppy’s meal. Alternatively, use papaya seeds, which also have anthelmintic properties. Ensure the puppy doesn’t eat the fruit’s skin or seeds in large quantities, as they can cause digestive upset.
- Coconut oil, rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), has antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. While it doesn’t kill worms directly, it strengthens the immune system and supports the gut’s natural ability to flush out parasites. Add a teaspoon of virgin coconut oil to your puppy’s food daily as a preventive measure.
When and How to Deworm a Puppy Naturally
Timing is critical when deworming puppies. Puppies are often exposed to worms shortly after birth, so early intervention is key. Follow these steps:
- Consult Your Vet First: Even when using natural remedies, always consult a veterinarian before starting any treatment. A vet can confirm the type of worms your puppy has (e.g., roundworms, tapeworms) and advise on the safest approach. For example, puppies under 6 weeks may need a vet-prescribed dewormer like pyrantel or Strongid-T to ensure safety.
- Start Treatment at the Right Age: Puppies should begin deworming at 4 weeks old, with repeat treatments every two weeks until they’re 16 weeks old. This is because natural remedies may not kill all worm stages (eggs, larvae, adults) in a single dose. For instance, pumpkin seeds target adult worms but not eggs, so multiple treatments are needed.
- Combine Remedies for Best Results: Using a mix of natural ingredients can cover different parasite stages. For example: Give pumpkin seeds to paralyze adult worms. Use black cumin seeds to flush out larvae. Add garlic or papaya to disrupt eggs. Repeat this cycle every three days for two weeks to ensure all worms are eliminated.
- Support Gut Health: After deworming, restore the puppy’s gut with probiotics. Plain yogurt (no added sugar) or a vet-recommended probiotic supplement can help replenish good bacteria and improve digestion.
How Worms Keep Coming Back
Worms are sneaky—they have a life cycle that keeps them going unless you break it. They lay eggs that end up in your puppy’s poop. Those eggs can stick around in dirt or on surfaces, waiting for another pup to swallow them. That’s why cleaning up fast and keeping things tidy is so important. Stop the cycle, and you stop the worms.
Preventing Future Worm Infections
Natural deworming isn’t a one-time fix. To keep your puppy worm-free, follow these preventive measures:
- Clean the Environment: Worm eggs and larvae can survive in soil, grass, or bedding. Regularly clean your puppy’s living area and wash their toys and bowls.
- Flea Control: Fleas are a common carrier of tapeworms. Use vet-approved flea treatments monthly.
- Avoid Contaminated Areas: Keep puppies away from areas where stray animals or wildlife defecate.
- Regular Checkups: Schedule annual fecal exams with your vet to catch infections early.
More Tips for Success
Natural deworming can take a little time, so be patient. For pumpkin seeds, fresh ones work best, grind them right before you use them, so they stay potent. With diatomaceous earth, store it in a dry place and never let it get wet before mixing it into food. If you’re using yogurt for probiotics, make sure it’s plain with no sugar or flavors.
When it comes to symptoms, watch for more than just poop problems. A puppy with worms might scoot their bottom on the floor (especially with tapeworms) or seem extra tired. Hookworms can even make their gums pale because they sip blood. Catching these signs early helps you act fast.
Regular vet visits are your secret weapon. Even with natural methods, a pro can tell you if the worms are really gone. They might suggest tweaking your plan or switching things up if one method isn’t cutting it.
FAQs
What food gives puppies worms?
Raw or undercooked meat from infected animals (e.g., sheep, pigs) can transmit worms like tapeworms. Contaminated raw meat or uncooked animal products are common sources.
Can I touch my puppy if he has worms?
Yes, but avoid contact with feces or areas near the puppy’s anus (where worm eggs may be present). Wash hands thoroughly after handling the puppy to prevent accidental ingestion of eggs.
Do dogs vomit after deworming?
Some dogs may vomit after deworming, especially with commercial products. This varies by dewormer type and individual dog.
Can my dog lick me if he has worms?
Avoid letting a dog with worms lick your face or mouth, as worm eggs on their fur or mouth could transfer to humans. Regularly clean the dog’s fur, especially around the butt.
Can I sleep with my dog if they have worms?
No. Worm eggs can contaminate bedding, posing a risk of human infection.
How do dogs act when they have worms?
Dogs may show diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, a dull coat, lethargy, or a pot-bellied look.
Do worms make dogs hungry?
Yes. Some worms (e.g., roundworms) steal nutrients, making infected dogs hungrier than usual as they try to compensate for lost nutrition.
Do dogs drink more water if they have worms?
No. Increased thirst is not a typical symptom of worms.
Do dogs with worms pee a lot?
No, frequent urination isn’t typical with worms.