Natural Worming for Dogs
A Safer Approach to Parasite Control
Worming is an essential part of dog care, but the conventional approach using pharmaceutical worming tablets may not always be the best choice for your pet’s health. While these medications are effective at eliminating parasites, they can also introduce harmful chemicals into a dog’s system, potentially causing side effects and disrupting gut health. The good news is that not all dogs require routine deworming, and there are natural alternatives that may be just as effective at keeping parasites at bay.
Common Parasites and Signs of Infection
Before treating for worms, it’s important to recognize the signs of an infestation. The most common intestinal parasites in dogs include:
Roundworms – These spaghetti-like worms are common in puppies and can cause bloating, diarrhea, and a dull coat.
Hookworms – These small, blood-sucking parasites attach to the intestinal lining, leading to anemia, weight loss, and lethargy.
Tapeworms – Often transmitted through fleas, tapeworms cause itching around the rear and can sometimes be seen in feces or around the anus.
Whipworms – These parasites live in the large intestine and can cause chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and general ill health.
Giardia – A microscopic parasite that causes watery diarrhea, dehydration, and weakness.
Signs that your dog may have worms include:
Diarrhea or loose stools
Vomiting
Weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite
Bloated abdomen (especially in puppies)
Lethargy or weakness
Dull coat or excessive shedding
Scooting or excessive licking of the rear
Visible worms or eggs in feces
If you suspect a worm infestation, a veterinary fecal test can confirm the presence of parasites before beginning treatment
The Hidden Risks of Conventional Worming Tablets
Pharmaceutical dewormers contain potent chemicals designed to kill internal parasites. While they do their job, they can also negatively impact a dog's overall well-being. Some common side effects include:
Gastrointestinal distress (vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite)
Lethargy or behavioral changes
Disruption of gut microbiome balance
Potential liver and kidney strain from metabolising synthetic chemicals
Many dog owners give their pets routine worming treatments without considering whether their dog actually has worms. Would you give your children strong medications just in case they might get worms? Probably not! So why do the same for your dog?
Over-worming can lead to unnecessary exposure to chemicals, which may weaken the immune system over time. Instead of blindly administering these treatments, it’s wise to first confirm whether a dog has worms through a veterinary fecal test.
Natural Worming Remedies
There are several natural methods to help prevent and eliminate worms in dogs without the use of harsh pharmaceuticals. Some of the most effective include:
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) – Food-grade DE is a natural substance made from fossilized algae. It can be added to a dog's food to help eliminate internal parasites. It works by dehydrating and breaking down the exoskeletons of worms, making it a safe and chemical-free alternative.
Pumpkin Seeds – Rich in cucurbitacin, a compound known to paralyze and expel worms, pumpkin seeds are a natural and nutritious way to help rid a dog of parasites. Simply grind and mix them into their food.
Garlic – When used in moderation, garlic can be an effective natural dewormer. The recommended dosage is ¼ clove per 4.5kg of body weight daily. Chop the garlic and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before adding it to your pet’s food.
Herbal Blends – A combination of herbs such as wormwood, black walnut, and cloves has been traditionally used to target internal parasites. I use Tagiwig 'Wiggles' treatment for a natural deworming approach.
Probiotics and a Healthy Diet – A strong immune system and a well-balanced gut microbiome naturally prevent parasite infestations. Feeding dogs a species-appropriate, whole-food diet and supplementing with probiotics can help maintain a natural resistance to worms. Try MircoMed probiotics for a quality brand.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) – Adding a small amount of raw, unfiltered ACV to a dog's water can create an unfavorable environment for parasites while also promoting overall digestive health. Give ¼-1 tsp in your pet’s water or food.
Full Moon Worming: A Holistic Approach
An interesting natural method for deworming is Full Moon Worming, which follows the lunar cycle. Advocates of this practice believe that parasites are more active and vulnerable to expulsion during the full moon when they detach from the intestinal walls.
By administering natural dewormers (such as diatomaceous earth, herbs, or pumpkin seeds) in sync with this cycle, some holistic practitioners claim that worming treatments can be more effective. While scientific research on this method is limited, many pet owners report success with this approach.
A Thoughtful Approach to Worming
Rather than routinely administering chemical wormers, dog owners should consider a more personalised approach. Regular fecal testing, a healthy diet, and natural preventatives can help reduce the need for pharmaceutical treatments.
If a dog does require deworming, natural remedies or alternative methods may offer a gentler, yet effective solution.
By prioritising a dog’s overall health and minimising unnecessary chemical exposure, we can help our canine companions thrive naturally while still keeping parasites under control.
Comments