How Long Does it Take for a Dog to Get Rid of Worms?

Dogs commonly become afflicted with intestinal worms. Canine worms pose potential health concerns for humans as well as the animal. Relieving your pet of worms is usually a quick and inexpensive process.

  1. Worms in Dogs

    • Worms are intestinal parasites. There are five common varieties: heartworms, whipworms, roundworms, tapeworms and hookworms. Heartworms are potentially fatal, but the other types are a nuisance to both dogs and owners, especially because worms can be transferred to humans from dogs.

    Deworming

    • The specific medication used to rid your pet of worms will be determined by the type of worm it has. In all cases except heartworm, though, a course of treatment can be completed in three days. Veterinarians will prescribe deworming medications.

    Heartworms

    • The initial treatment for heartworms takes two days. The dog then has to be kept indoors for the next four to six weeks, with the exception of short walks.