Flea and worming treatment for dogs: what you need to know
Fleas and worms are easier to prevent than to treat. This guide covers the basics from PDSA's advice. Your vet is the right person to choose the product and schedule for your dog.
Fleas
Fleas cause itching and skin problems, and heavy infestations can make young, old or unwell pets seriously ill. They're a problem all year, though they're especially active in warmer months.
- PDSA says to treat all pets in the home regularly, usually monthly, but products differ, so check the instructions or ask your vet
- Most fleas live in the home rather than on your pet, so wash bedding on a hot wash and vacuum regularly
- If one pet has fleas, treat every pet they're in contact with, and the home
- Look for flea dirt: comb the coat over damp cotton wool, and specks that turn red are flea dirt
- Never use a dog flea treatment on a cat. Many contain permethrin, which can be fatal to cats
Worms
The main worms in UK dogs are roundworm, tapeworm and lungworm. Lungworm is spread by slugs and snails and can make dogs seriously ill. Dogs can catch tapeworm by swallowing fleas while grooming, so flea control helps prevent worms too.
PDSA says adult dogs usually need worming every 1 to 3 months, and dogs that scavenge or hunt may need it more often. Puppies need worming more often, from about 3 weeks old. Ask your vet which worms to cover, including lungworm, based on your dog's age, lifestyle and where you live.
Choosing a product
PDSA says prescription treatments from your vet, or from an online pharmacy with a vet's prescription, are the most reliable option. Home remedies are unlikely to work. Contact your vet if your dog seems unwell after a treatment.
Never miss a dose: PawTrak reminders
PawTrak Premium includes flea and worming reminders. Log when you last gave a treatment, choose how often it's due, and we'll remind you by email and push notification two days before and on the day.
- Logging a dose sets the next reminder automatically.
- Set separate reminders for flea and worming treatments.
- Premium is £3.99 a month or £39.90 a year for your first pet. Cancel any time.
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