How to Deworm Your Dog

Internal Deworming: Puppies usually need their first deworming around one month old, and then every month until they are six months old. After six months and for adult dogs, deworming is recommended every three months. The dosage of deworming medicine is usually based on the dog's weight, and the specific amount should be determined according to the medication instructions.

External Deworming: Puppies should be dewormed externally for the first time when they are 28 days old, again at 58 days, and then once more at 88 days. After that, they should be dewormed monthly. Most external deworming products for dogs are droppers or sprays that are applied to the dog's skin, effectively removing parasites. The efficacy of both sprays and droppers is the same.

Domestic pets should be dewormed internally and externally as soon as possible to ensure their health and prevent the spread of parasites when playing with other dogs, especially when interacting with strays.

Dogs go outside daily, easily contracting internal and external parasites. Even dogs that don't go outside can be infected through substances brought home by their owners, such as mud containing parasite eggs. If left untreated, this can lead to health issues such as digestive problems and skin infections, and in severe cases, may be life-threatening.

1. How Often to Deworm

Internal Deworming: Puppies usually need their first deworming around one month old, and then every month until they are six months old. After six months and for adult dogs, deworming is recommended every three months.

External Deworming: Puppies should be dewormed externally for the first time when they are 28 days old, again at 58 days, and then once more at 88 days. After that, they should be dewormed monthly.

2. How to Deworm

Internal Deworming:

Oral deworming medication is used to eliminate internal parasites in dogs. Common brands include Baytril and Panacur. When administering the medication, strictly follow the instructions on the packaging. Do not use more or less than the recommended dosage, as excess medication can cause side effects such as poisoning, while too little may not achieve the desired deworming effect. Generally, dogs can be given the medication during or after meals.

After internal deworming, dogs may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. This is because dogs have highly developed and sensitive vomiting reflexes. When their stomachs feel uncomfortable, they may involuntarily vomit. This is not something to worry about, as it usually resolves within 2-4 days (occurring in about 20% of cases). However, if a dog vomits within two hours after taking the medication, a repeat dosage is necessary.

External Deworming:

Most external deworming products for dogs are droppers or sprays that are applied to the dog's skin, effectively removing parasites. Both sprays and droppers have the same efficacy and can effectively eliminate external parasites in dogs.

If using a spray, apply the medication all over the dog's body and avoid bathing it for 1-2 days (most deworming sprays are safe and non-toxic, so it's okay if the dog licks it). Droppers are usually applied to the base of the dog's neck, where it's difficult for them to reach with their tongue.

Note that dogs may experience stomach irritation when taking deworming medication, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea. It's recommended to supplement with probiotics or other health products that protect and regulate the pet's digestive system after taking the deworming medication. This can help restore the intestinal flora, reduce stress reactions, and ensure that the dog safely undergoes the deworming process.