Worming Puppies the Right Way: The Ultimate Puppy Deworming Guide
Raising a healthy litter starts with parasite prevention. In this episode of Healthy Herds & Happy Homes, experienced breeders Jake and Megan break down their proven worming protocol—step-by-step—for puppies starting at just 2 weeks old.
In this guide, we will explore the various types of worms that can affect puppies, the symptoms that can signal their presence, and the importance of a comprehensive deworming strategy. Understanding these aspects is crucial for any breeder or pet owner who wishes to ensure the health and wellbeing of their puppies.
🎧 Watch the full podcast episode below:
📅 Recommended Deworming Schedule for Puppies
Worms can be categorized mainly into roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. Each type has its own lifecycle and method of infection, making it important to familiarize yourself with them to adequately protect your litter.
Jake and Megan recommend a structured schedule built around rotating safe and effective products from ToltrazurilShop.com:
Roundworms are particularly common in puppies. They can be transmitted from infected mothers to their pups through the placenta or by nursing. Symptoms of roundworm infection include a bloated belly and a general failure to thrive.
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2, 4, 6, 8 weeks: Pyrantel 5% Liquid Solution
Hookworms, on the other hand, are more dangerous as they can lead to severe anemia. Puppies often acquire hookworms from contaminated soil or through their mother. Signs of infection may include pallor and weakness.
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10 & 12 weeks: Fenbendazole Liquid Dewormer (3-day course)
Tapeworms are identifiable by the segments they leave in the feces, looking like grains of rice. They are generally transmitted through fleas, so flea control is equally important in preventing tapeworm infections.
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14 weeks: Albendazole 11.36%
Whipworms can affect puppies but are less common. They primarily reside in the cecum and can cause colitis. Symptoms often include diarrhea and weight loss.
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As needed: Toltrazuril Liquid Solution (for coccidia)
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16 weeks onward: MoxiGuard Plus (broad-spectrum monthly dewormer)
💊 Why Rotation Matters
Using the same dewormer repeatedly can lead to resistance and treatment failure. That’s why Jake and Megan emphasize product rotation and tracking each treatment to keep your puppies parasite-free from day one.
When implementing a deworming schedule, it’s essential to follow the veterinary guidelines closely. The first deworming at 2 weeks is crucial, as many puppies will have contracted parasites in utero or through nursing. Each subsequent treatment targets any remaining larvae as they mature into adults.
🐶 Signs Your Puppies May Have Worms
In addition to monitoring for physical symptoms, regular fecal examinations can help determine the presence of worms. A veterinarian can perform these tests to ensure that the deworming protocol is effective. It’s wise to establish a relationship with a vet who understands the specific needs of your breed.
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Bloated stomach
Prevention is always better than cure. Ensure your puppies are in a clean environment, and avoid overcrowding to minimize the risk of infection. Maintaining proper hygiene in the whelping area is key to a successful deworming strategy.
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Loose stool or diarrhea
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Visible worms in feces
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Stunted growth
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Vomiting
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Dull coat
If any of these appear, Jake recommends treating immediately and staying on schedule for future litters.
🛒 Shop Breeder-Trusted Dewormers
Choosing the right products is vital. Always opt for dewormers that have been tested and recommended by professionals. Reading reviews and joining breeder communities can provide invaluable information on the efficacy of different products.
Every product discussed in the episode is available at:
👉 ToltrazurilShop.com
📧 info@toltrazurilshop.com
📞 (850) 400-3546
📥 Bonus Resources
Moreover, consider creating a tracking system for your deworming schedule. Keeping records of each treatment can help prevent missed dosages and ensure that all puppies receive the proper care. A simple chart or spreadsheet can suffice.
🎯 Download the Puppy Deworming Cheat Sheet
📝 Printable dosing chart for Pyrantel, Fenbendazole, and Toltrazuril
📌 Stick it in your whelping room for easy reference
Have a question for Jake and Megan? Leave a comment below or email us. We encourage you to share your experiences with deworming puppies and any additional tips you may have. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more breeder-focused advice, tutorials, and product reviews. Together, we can ensure that every puppy starts life healthy and strong. Worming Puppies the Right Way: Breeder-Tested Deworming Protocol with Jake & Megan