How do I know if my puppy has worms, and what do I do about it?

This is also high on our list of puppy FAQs, as a huge percentage of puppies have worms and if you're a new puppy parent, it's something you may well have to deal with. Some worms can be seen in your dog's feces, and in severe cases of roundworm infestation your pup may even have worms in his vomit.


Other symptoms of worm infestation include a round, distended belly, a dull, rough coat or a cough. Although very common, worms can make your puppy quite sick...at the very least he'll feel and look 'out of sorts'. The most common worms are Roundworms, your pup could also ge twhipworms, tapeworms, hookworms or heartworms.


Treatment for the first 4 types is fairly straightforward. You will need your veterinarian to diagnose and confirm the infestation, and the type of worm involved. They will then prescribe, or administer, the appropriate de-wormer. Do not use over-the-counter medications as they can be ineffective at best, and harmful at worst.


Heartworms are a different story, but you are unlikely to find these in a young puppy. They're transmitted by mosquitoes and can be deadly. Treatment is often effective if caught early enough, but it is complicated and expensive.