Welcoming a newborn puppy into your home is an exciting time! Alongside all the fun and cuteness, there are essential responsibilities every dog mom and dog dad must consider – deworming being one of most important contributers to puppy health. Internal parasites can compromise the health of both the mother and her pups, making deworming a vital step in ensuring a healthy canine family.
Deworming the Bitch Before Whelping
Ensuring that the mother is free of worms is the first step in minimizing the risk to the puppies. By deworming the bitch before whelping, you reduce the chances of worms being passed through her milk to the newborns.
Recommendation: Deworm the bitch 2-3 weeks before the expected whelping date.
Common Worms in Puppies
Here are the most common types of worms in puppies:
Roundworms
Hookworms
Whipworms
Tapeworms
Each requires specific treatment, emphasizing the importance of regular vet check-ups.
Symptoms of Worm Infestation
Puppy worm symptoms include:
Vomiting or diarrhea
Weight loss
Dull coat
Visible worms in the stool or around the rear
Popular Deworming Brands and Dosing Charts
Before proceeding, always consult with your veterinarian before administering any medications. A common question I receive is "when do you deworm your puppy and how often to deworm puppies?" Here's a list of reputable deworming brands and their suggested dosing:
Dewormer Name | Suggested Bitch Dosing | Suggested Puppy Dosing | Frequency |
Drontal Plus | 1 tablet per 10kg of body weight | begin at 2 weeks old, 1 tablet per 3 kg of body weight | every 2 weeks until 12 weeks, repeat once a month until 6 months |
Nemex | 1 teaspoon (5ml) per 10 lbs of body weight | 1 teaspoon (5ml) per 10 lbs of body weight. | begin 2 weeks and continue to 4, 6 & 8 weeks |
Safe-guard (fenbendazole) | 1 g per 4.44 kg body weight | begin at 6 weeks old | administer once daily for 3 consecutive days. Repeat at 8, 10, and 12 weeks then monthly until 6 months. |
Panacur (fenbendazole) | 1 gram per 4.44 kg body weight | begin at 2 weeks old | administer daily for 3 consecutive days every 2 weeks until puppies are 10 weeks old |
Pyrantal Pomate | 1 teaspoon (5ml) per 10 lbs of body weight | 0.1 ml per 10 lbs of body weight | begin at 2 weeks. continue to 4, 6 & 8 weeks. |
Note: The above dosing charts are general guidelines. Always consult the medication's label or speak with a vet for precise dosing.
When to Deworm Newborn Puppies
Begin deworming puppies at 2 weeks of age. Deworming should be repeated every two weeks until 12 weeks of age. After this initial period, your vet may recommend monthly treatments or a different schedule based on your pup’s environment and risk.
Conclusion
Deworming is a simple yet crucial step in ensuring the health and well-being of your furry family. By taking proactive measures with both the mother before whelping and the puppies after birth, you're taking significant strides in protecting them from internal parasites. As always, while the brands listed above are trusted and popular choices, the best advice will always come from your veterinarian, tailored to your dog's specific needs. Ensure a healthy start for your puppies by making deworming a priority
Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian or a licensed medical professional. The information provided is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice or treatment. This information is for educational and informational purposes only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for diagnosis, treatment, and advice tailored to your pet's specific needs. The use of this information is at your own risk.
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