Discreet but common, intestinal parasites affect most dogs at some point in their lives — regular prevention remains essential, particularly for active dogs frequently out in natural environments.

The main intestinal worms in dogs

Roundworms (ascarids)

Particularly common in puppies, often transmitted by the mother even before birth or during nursing.

Tapeworms

Transmitted mainly through ingesting infected fleas or eating poorly controlled raw meat — a point of vigilance for dogs partly fed a raw diet (BARF).

Heartworms (dirofilariasis)

Transmitted by mosquito bites, present in certain geographic regions — specific prevention adapted to the region remains recommended.

Why active dogs are more exposed

A dog that regularly visits natural areas, sniffs and explores the ground, or mixes with other dogs at a sports club (see our articles on canicross, agility or mantrailing) faces greater exposure to intestinal parasites compared with a dog living a more controlled lifestyle.

Signs to watch for

  • Weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite
  • Abdominal bloating, particularly visible in puppies
  • Visible worm segments in stool or near the anus
  • Scooting (dragging the hindquarters along the ground) — a sometimes-associated but non-specific sign
  • Chronic vomiting or diarrhea

The deworming protocol

The recommended deworming schedule varies by age, lifestyle and exposure: puppies need a more frequent protocol than adults, while a highly exposed dog (hunting, outdoor sport, frequent contact with other dogs) generally benefits from a higher frequency than a dog with a more sheltered lifestyle.

A public health issue too

Some intestinal parasites in dogs carry a zoonotic risk (transmission to humans), which justifies rigorous prevention not only for the dog's health but also for that of its household, particularly where young children are present.

Tailoring the protocol with your veterinarian

Rather than a generic calendar, a personalized deworming protocol, established with your veterinarian based on the dog's actual lifestyle, remains the most sensible approach for effective prevention without over-treatment.

Also available in English: harness or collar: which to choose depending on use, the clicker and other positive reinforcement tools and ticks and parasites: protecting the active dog all year round. More translations are added over time.