How to treat hookworms in dog poop?

Finding tiny, thread-like creatures in your dog’s poop is never a welcome sight, and if those wrigglers are hookworms, acting fast is key. These parasites latch onto your pup’s intestinal walls, feeding on blood and potentially causing anemia, weight loss, or worse—especially in puppies. First, confirm the diagnosis: a vet can examine a stool sample under a microscope to spot hookworm eggs, which are too small to see with the naked eye. Don’t skip this step; other worms like roundworms look similar, and treatments vary.

Once confirmed, your vet will likely prescribe a dewormer. Options like fenbendazole or pyrantel pamoate are common, but always follow their dosage instructions. Puppies might need multiple rounds since hookworms can pass through milk, while adult dogs may require a single dose followed by a check-up. Never use over-the-counter meds without a vet’s okay—incorrect dosages can harm your pet.

Cleaning up after your dog isn’t just polite; it’s critical for stopping hookworm spread. These parasites lay eggs in feces, which hatch into larvae that can burrow through human skin, causing itchy rashes. Always use gloves to pick up poop, bag it tightly, and toss it in a sealed trash can. Avoid letting your dog defecate in public parks or yards where kids play—many local laws require immediate cleanup, and fines for neglecting this can be steep. In some states, like California, failing to pick up after your pet can cost up to $500.

Yard maintenance matters too. Hookworm larvae thrive in damp soil, so keep your lawn dry by fixing sprinkler leaks and raking regularly. If your dog has had hookworms, treat your yard with a pet-safe pesticide—ask your vet for recommendations. Steer clear of using bleach, as it can harm grass and isn’t effective against larvae.

Preventing future infestations is easier than treating them. Keep your dog on a monthly heartworm preventative that also targets hookworms—many popular brands, like NexGard or Heartgard, include this protection. Schedule annual fecal exams, even if your dog seems healthy, since hookworms can live in their system without obvious symptoms. And when adopting a new dog, ask for a recent parasite screening—rescues and shelters often provide this, but it’s worth double-checking.

Hookworms are a nuisance, but with quick vet care, thorough cleaning, and consistent prevention, you can keep your dog—and your family—safe. Stay proactive, follow local pet waste laws, and your pup will be back to wagging their tail in no time.