Should you deworm your dog every 3 months?

Should you deworm your dog every 3 months? It’s a question that pops up in nearly every new dog owner’s mind after the first vet visit. You bring home that squishy puppy, vet hands you a little bottle of dewormer, and suddenly you’re wondering: How often do I really need to do this? Let’s break it down, no jargon—just practical stuff for you and your furry friend.

Think about where your dog spends their days. If they’re bounding through neighborhood parks in Portland, rolling in grass at Chicago’s dog runs, or even just napping on the patio in Phoenix, they’re brushing up against tiny hitchhikers: fleas, ticks, roundworms, hookworms. These pests don’t just bug your pup—they can sneak into your home, too. Kids playing on the floor where your dog sleeps? That’s why vets often flag deworming as a family health issue, not just a pet one.

So, 3 months—does that magic number hold? For most adult dogs, yeah, it’s a solid starting point. Puppies need more frequent care (sometimes every 2 weeks until 16 weeks old) because their tiny systems are still developing. But once they hit adulthood? If your dog’s a regular at dog parks, hikes, or hangs out with other pets, 3 months keeps risks low. Indoor-only dogs might stretch it a bit, but even couch potatoes can pick up parasites from a stray bug or a dirty shoe.

Local climate plays a role, too. In humid spots like Florida or Louisiana, where mosquitoes and ticks thrive year-round, vets might nudge you to stay strict on that 3-month schedule. Up north, where winters freeze things over, you might get a little flexibility—but don’t skip it. Parasites are survivors, and a warm spell can bring them back.

Here’s the thing: responsible pet ownership in the U.S. isn’t just about love—it’s about following the unspoken rules. Most apartments and HOAs require proof of regular vet care, including deworming. Want to take your dog to a boarding facility or a pet-friendly café? They’ll ask for those records. It’s not red tape; it’s keeping everyone—pets and people—safe.

Your vet knows best, though. Every dog is different. A senior dog with health issues might need a adjusted schedule. A rescue with a unknown history? They might start with more frequent treatments to get ahead of things. This is where that “partnership” with your vet matters—way more than a one-size-fits-all rule.

So, should you deworm every 3 months? For many dogs, yes. But treat it as a starting line, not a finish. Watch for signs—scooting, weight loss, dull coat—and chat with your vet. After all, keeping your dog parasite-free is just another way to show them that love you feel every time they greet you at the door.