Medically reviewed by Dr. Catherine Nicolaou, DVM.
Quick answer: Deworm puppies every 2 weeks from 2 weeks of age until they are 12 weeks old, then once a month until 6 months, and after that every 3 months for life. Worms are very common in Indian dogs because of warm, humid weather, soil and contact with street dogs. Most dewormers are cheap, safe and given by mouth, but the right product and dose depend on your dog’s weight, so check with your vet.
Worms are not just a puppy problem. An adult dog that hunts, scavenges or walks where other dogs go picks them up too. Here is the full schedule, the signs to watch for, and how to deworm safely.
Dog deworming schedule chart (India)
| Dog age | How often to deworm |
|---|---|
| 2 to 12 weeks (puppy) | Every 2 weeks |
| 3 to 6 months | Once a month |
| 6 months and older (adult) | Every 3 months (quarterly) |
| Pregnant dogs | Before mating and around whelping, on your vet’s advice |
This is the routine most Indian vets follow. Your vet may adjust it for a dog at higher risk, such as a rescued street dog or one with a heavy worm load.
Dewormer tablets and syrups are inexpensive, often a small amount per dose depending on your dog’s weight and the brand (treat any price as a rough estimate and confirm locally). Deworming runs alongside your dog’s vaccination schedule as the two-part baseline of early care.
Why deworming matters
Intestinal worms steal nutrition, damage the gut, and in heavy infections can be life-threatening for a puppy. The common ones in India are roundworm, hookworm, tapeworm and whipworm. Some, like roundworm and hookworm, can also infect people, especially children, which is why regular deworming protects your family too. India’s warm climate, monsoon moisture, public parks and stray-dog contact keep the parasite risk high all year, so see our monsoon dog-care guide for the high-risk season. Ticks are another parasite that hits Indian dogs hard, so learn the signs of tick fever in dogs.
Signs your dog has worms
Many dogs show nothing, which is why routine deworming matters. When signs appear, watch for:
- A pot-bellied look, especially in puppies
- Visible worms or rice-like segments in the stool or around the back end
- Weight loss despite a normal appetite
- A dull coat or low energy
- Scooting (dragging the bottom on the floor)
- Vomiting or diarrhoea, sometimes with blood
If you see blood, a swollen belly in a puppy, or a dog that is weak and off food, treat it as a vet visit, not a home deworming.
How to deworm your dog
Deworming is usually a tablet or syrup given by mouth, dosed by your dog’s weight. Give it with or just after food to reduce stomach upset. For a tablet, you can hide it in a small treat or a ball of food, or place it at the back of the tongue and gently encourage a swallow. Always use a product meant for dogs and follow your vet on which one and how much, since puppies, pregnant dogs and tiny breeds need specific care.
What to expect after deworming
Most dogs are completely fine. You may see worms passed in the stool for a day or two, which is normal. A few dogs have mild, short-lived tiredness or a soft stool. Call your vet if your dog vomits repeatedly, seems very unwell, or you saw a heavy worm load, as a second dose or a check-up may be needed.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I deworm my dog?
Puppies every 2 weeks until 12 weeks, then monthly until 6 months, then every 3 months as an adult. Dogs in contact with strays or raw food may need it more often, so ask your vet.
What happens if I do not deworm my dog?
Worms can cause weight loss, anaemia, gut damage and, in puppies, serious illness. Some worms also spread to people. Regular deworming prevents all of this cheaply.
What are the side effects of deworming a dog?
They are usually minor: a soft stool, mild tiredness, or visible worms passed for a day. Repeated vomiting or a very unwell dog is not normal and needs a vet.
Can I deworm a pregnant dog?
Yes, but only with a vet-approved product and timing. Deworming around mating and whelping protects the puppies, but the wrong drug can harm them, so this one is vet-led.
Can I use a human dewormer on my dog?
No. Human dewormers are not dosed or formulated for dogs and can be unsafe. Use a canine product at the correct weight-based dose.
For the right product and dose for your dog, consult your vet. This guide is general information and does not replace an in-person check-up. Street dogs need deworming too; if you care for one, your local animal helpline can point you to low-cost options.