Worming your dog is arguably more important than flea treatment. There’s such a large variety of worms, and some are fast and silent killers (think lungworm). But not everyone likes the chemical treatments from the vet and might turn to more natural solutions.
If you want to know how to deworm your dog naturally, it’s pretty simple.
There are loads of great foods you can give dogs that help to prevent worms. Carrots, pumpkin seeds, coconut, turmeric, chamomile, and even apple cider vinegar can help keep your pup healthy.
Don’t take my word for it, below is a carefully researched guide on every home treatment that is effective and keeping worms away.
#1 Carrots
Carrots are great for your pup. They are a fantastic source of vitamin A and also contain an abundance of nutrients that help to boost the immune system. When you feed your dog carrots, make sure they are chopped coarsely.
This is because they will SCRAPE along the walls of the stomach and digestive system as they are digested, removing mucus and parasites on the way out. They are actually surprisingly effective and make a great regular treat for your pup.
#2 Pumpkin Seeds
These should always be given RAW, as packaged seeds for human consumption are usually seasoned with salt or spices. You can feed them as whole seeds or grind them into a powder and add it to their food.
They are effective at getting rid of worms because they contain an amino acid known as cucurbitacin. It works to paralysethe worms, helping your dog’s body to pass them more efficiently. You should give them one spoon of seeds per 10lbs (4.5kg) of body weight.
#3 Coconut
Coconuts are actually something known as a vermifuge. This means that they have natural medicinal properties for removing worms and parasites from the body – both in terms of you and your dog. You can feed it in flake form or as an oil, it’s your choice.
The oil can be sprinkled over your dog’s food before serving, and it is a healthy oil to add regularly. For the flakes, give one teaspoon to small dogs, two teaspoons to medium dogs, and one tablespoon to large dogs.
#4 Turmeric
This superfood has been used to boost the immune system for thousands of years. It’s anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and even antibacterial. However, it also contains four specific compounds that can be used to ELIMINATE worms from the body.
It’s completely safe for your dog to eat, and all you need to do is sprinkle a little on their food or mix it with some coconut oil to form a powerful paste. It doesn’t just get rid of the worms either, it also acts to fix any damage done to the intestines by these pesky parasites.
#5 Apple Cider Vinegar
This is actually a highly effective worming treatment for your dog. Unlike other types of vinegar, it increases the alkaline level in the gut – creating a hostile environment for worms and other parasites. You’ll find they are killed and removed very quickly.
To treat your dog using apple cider vinegar, simply add anything from a quarter to a whole teaspoon to their water every day. Make sure it is raw and organic for the best results.Â
Check out our guide for our choice of naturally dogs foods for dogs that have suffered from worms.
#6 Chamomile
Chamomile can help to ease any bloating or inflammation caused by parasites like worms. It is even able to eliminate roundworm and whipworm, which are notoriously difficult to remove from the system. The best way to give chamomile is as a tincture.
You can buy tinctures online or at a local health food shop, and the recommended dose is 0.25ml – 0.50ml per 20lbs (9kg) of your dog’s weight. All you need to do is repeat the process twice a day for two weeks to get rid of all the worms.
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FAQs
Does human food cause worms in dogs?
Absolutely, dogs can get worms from human food (and so can humans). Worms are found in contaminated food and are not always visible especially if they are still in egg form. This is why regular worming is important – you never know what they might pick up on a walk.
Can I get worms from my dog licking me?
Definitely, you can get worms from your dog licking you. Parasites like hookworm and roundworm can be passed from dog to human through licking. Of course, this happens very rarely and shouldn’t be a problem if your dog is wormed regularly.
How long does it take to get rid of worms in dogs?
It usually takes 4-6 hours for treatments to kill the worms in dogs. You will likely find the dead worms in their stools for a day or two after the treatment. If they are still alive or your dog continues to show symptoms – call your vet.
Final Thoughts
We understand the concerns that come with using artificial worming products and the potential side effects. That’s why natural paths can be such a good option, just make sure you consult your vet first as every dog is different and some natural treatments will work better than others.
Learn something new today? Our dedicated series of canine care guides are here to help you learn more about looking after your furry friend. Check them out and discover everything from general health care to what they can and cannot eat.
For over a decade, Adrienne has been a freelance content writer and blogger who’s passion lies in anything related to dogs. Growing up, dogs were a very important part of family life in the Hardwick household. Now, Adrienne is the proud parent to two Swedish Vallhunds called Moose and Pumpkin.