The Best Natural Deworming Foods for Dogs That Actually Work!
If you’re looking for the best natural deworming foods for dogs, you’re in the right place. As a pet nutritionist with hands-on experience in veterinary clinics, I’ve seen firsthand how natural remedies can support a dog’s health. While prescription dewormers are effective, many pet parents prefer natural solutions—either as preventive care or as a complement to traditional treatments. So, let’s dive into the best natural foods that can help keep your pup parasite-free!
Why Consider Natural Deworming for Dogs?
Let’s be real—worms are a gross but common problem. If you’ve ever dealt with a dog dragging their bum across the floor (the dreaded “scoot”), you know how frustrating it can be. Internal parasites like roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms can cause digestive issues, weight loss, and even serious health complications. While chemical dewormers are effective, they can sometimes be harsh on a dog’s system, leading to side effects like vomiting or diarrhea.
That’s why many pet parents are exploring natural alternatives. These foods help create an internal environment that’s less hospitable to parasites, all while providing nutritional benefits. Plus, they’re easy to incorporate into your dog’s diet!
Natural Foods That Help with Deworming
1. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are a superstar when it comes to natural deworming. They contain cucurbitacin, a compound that paralyzes and eliminates worms from the digestive tract. I always recommend grinding them up and sprinkling them over food for better absorption.
How to use:
- Grind raw, unsalted pumpkin seeds into a fine powder.
- Add 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight to your dog’s meal.
- Feed daily for about two weeks.
In my experience, dogs love the nutty taste, and the added fiber supports healthy digestion!
2. Carrots
Carrots aren’t just a crunchy snack; they help scrub the digestive tract, dislodging parasites along the way. Plus, they’re packed with beta-carotene, which supports immune health.
How to use:
- Chop raw carrots into bite-sized pieces.
- Offer as a daily treat or mix them into meals.
- Cooked carrots work too but retain more fiber when raw.
One of my clients swore that adding carrots to their dog’s diet made a visible difference—less bloating, firmer stools, and a shinier coat. It’s a simple, effective addition to any natural deworming routine.
3. Coconut
Coconut has powerful antiparasitic properties, thanks to its medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), which help expel worms. I personally love adding a bit of organic coconut oil to my dogs’ meals—it’s great for digestion, skin, and coat too!
How to use:
- Use unsweetened shredded coconut—about 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight.
- Alternatively, add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil per 10 pounds of body weight daily.
One of my furry patients, a Golden Retriever named Bailey, used coconut oil in his meals for a month. Not only did his stool improve, but his coat became noticeably silkier too. Talk about a double win!
Supporting Gut Health for Parasite Prevention
It’s not just about getting rid of worms—it’s about making sure they don’t come back. A strong gut microbiome plays a huge role in preventing parasitic infestations. When your dog’s digestive system is balanced, worms struggle to take hold.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
ACV is a natural acidifier that creates an environment where parasites struggle to survive. It also improves digestion and boosts immune function.
How to use:
- Add 1 teaspoon of raw, unfiltered ACV per 50 pounds of body weight to your dog’s water or food.
- Introduce gradually to avoid digestive upset.
Tip: Make sure to use organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with the “mother” for the best results!
5. Fermented Foods
Fermented foods like plain kefir, yogurt, or sauerkraut introduce beneficial probiotics into your dog’s gut, making it harder for worms to thrive.
How to use:
- Offer 1-2 teaspoons of plain, unsweetened yogurt daily.
- Kefir (a fermented milk drink) can be given in small amounts—1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight.
- Fermented vegetables like sauerkraut can be added in tiny portions for extra probiotic benefits.
I’ve seen dogs with recurring worm issues completely turn around after incorporating fermented foods into their diet. One owner of a German Shepherd mix told me that after adding kefir, their dog’s stool became more consistent, and no more worms appeared in the backyard!
Wrapping Up This Section
Natural deworming isn’t just about eliminating worms—it’s about creating a healthy, balanced digestive system that naturally repels parasites. With the right diet and a few simple additions, you can support your dog’s health in a natural, effective way.
More Natural Foods for Deworming Your Dog
We’ve already covered some of the best natural deworming foods for dogs, but there’s more! Parasites can be stubborn, and a well-rounded approach using different natural ingredients helps create an internal environment that discourages infestations. Here are some additional powerhouse foods I recommend based on my years in pet nutrition.
6. Turmeric
Turmeric isn’t just a trendy superfood for humans—it’s incredibly beneficial for dogs too. This golden spice has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiparasitic properties, making it an excellent natural dewormer. It helps flush out parasites while soothing the digestive tract.
How to use:
- Mix 1/4 teaspoon of organic turmeric powder per 10 pounds of body weight into your dog’s food.
- For better absorption, combine it with a little black pepper and coconut oil.
- Start with small amounts and gradually increase.
One of my clients had an older Labrador suffering from bloating and irregular digestion. After adding turmeric to his meals, not only did his digestion improve, but his joint stiffness eased up too—bonus benefits!
7. Papaya
Papaya is rich in papain, a powerful enzyme that helps break down proteins and eliminate intestinal parasites. Plus, it’s packed with fiber, which supports digestion and helps push out unwanted guests.
How to use:
- Chop fresh, ripe papaya into small pieces.
- Feed 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight.
- For added benefits, crush papaya seeds and mix a small pinch into food.
A German Shepherd I worked with used to have recurring worm problems. After adding papaya to her diet, her stools improved, and her energy levels soared. Her owner was thrilled!
Herbs That Help Expel Worms Naturally
Besides food, certain herbs act as natural dewormers. These have been used for centuries in holistic medicine and can be a great addition to your dog’s diet.
8. Wormwood
Wormwood is well-known for its antiparasitic properties. It helps expel intestinal worms by creating a hostile environment for them. However, it must be used cautiously, as too much can be toxic.
How to use:
- Use a high-quality wormwood supplement from a trusted brand.
- Follow dosing recommendations carefully (typically a few drops of a tincture or a tiny pinch of dried herb).
- Only use under the guidance of a holistic vet.
In my practice, I’ve seen wormwood work wonders for stubborn cases of tapeworms and roundworms. It’s potent but effective when used correctly.
9. Oregano
Oregano is more than just a pizza topping—it’s a powerful antimicrobial and antiparasitic herb. Its natural compounds help fight off worms and other harmful bacteria.
How to use:
- Add a pinch of dried oregano to your dog’s food.
- Use oregano oil (diluted!)—1 drop mixed into coconut oil, added to meals once daily.
One dog owner I worked with had a rescue pup with chronic digestive issues. We introduced oregano oil slowly, and within weeks, her stools became more regular, and her appetite improved.
10. Cloves
Cloves contain eugenol, a compound that helps kill parasites and their eggs. They also support the immune system, making it easier for your dog to fight off infestations.
How to use:
- Grind a single clove into a fine powder.
- Sprinkle a tiny amount (less than 1/8 teaspoon) into food once a week.
- Do not overuse—cloves are strong and should be used in moderation.
Fun fact: Clove is often used in natural human deworming protocols too. It’s amazing how nature provides solutions for both pets and people!
Other Natural Remedies to Support Deworming
Beyond food and herbs, a few other natural methods can help your dog stay parasite-free.
11. Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade Only!)
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a fine powder made from fossilized algae. It works by dehydrating and killing parasites in the digestive tract. But make sure to use food-grade DE—industrial-grade is harmful!
How to use:
- For small dogs, start with 1/4 teaspoon per day.
- For medium dogs, use 1/2 teaspoon.
- For large dogs, up to 1 teaspoon daily.
- Mix into food for about 10 days, then take a break.
Many pet parents swear by DE, and I’ve personally seen it work wonders for dogs with recurring worm issues.
12. Probiotics & Gut Health Supplements
Keeping your dog’s gut healthy is one of the best ways to prevent worms in the first place. A strong microbiome makes it harder for parasites to take hold.
Recommended probiotic sources:
- Plain, unsweetened yogurt
- Fermented vegetables (small amounts)
- High-quality probiotic supplements for dogs
One of my clients started giving her Shih Tzu a probiotic supplement, and within weeks, her itchy skin and digestion improved. Gut health truly impacts everything!
What to Watch for When Using Natural Dewormers
While natural deworming methods can be highly effective, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Be patient: Natural remedies often take longer to work than chemical dewormers.
- Monitor stools: You may notice worms being expelled—this is a good sign!
- Use a combination approach: No single remedy works for every dog. Mix and match foods and herbs for the best results.
- Regular vet checkups: Always consult your vet, especially if your dog has a severe infestation.
By incorporating these natural foods and remedies into your dog’s routine, you’re not just getting rid of worms—you’re promoting overall health, digestion, and a stronger immune system!
Creating a Natural Deworming Routine for Your Dog
Now that we’ve covered a wide range of natural deworming foods and herbs, the next step is putting everything into action. While it’s tempting to try everything at once, a strategic and balanced approach is the best way to ensure long-term success. Here’s how to create a simple, sustainable natural deworming routine for your pup.
Step 1: Start with a Baseline Health Check
Before making any dietary changes, it’s always a good idea to check in with your vet. They can run a fecal test to determine if your dog currently has worms and what type they’re dealing with. This helps you tailor your natural deworming approach for the best results.
Signs your dog may have worms:
- Visible worms in stool or around the anus
- Sudden weight loss despite a good appetite
- Bloated belly (especially in puppies)
- Excessive scooting or licking the rear end
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Dull coat or itchy skin
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, a natural deworming protocol might be a great addition to your dog’s routine.
Step 2: Introduce Natural Deworming Foods Gradually
Instead of overwhelming your dog with too many changes at once, introduce new foods gradually. Pick one or two natural dewormers and see how your dog reacts before adding more.
Example deworming meal plan:
- Week 1: Add ground pumpkin seeds and a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to meals.
- Week 2: Introduce fresh papaya or a probiotic source like plain yogurt.
- Week 3: Start incorporating turmeric or diatomaceous earth in small amounts.
By slowly integrating these foods, you reduce the risk of digestive upset while maximizing their effectiveness.
Step 3: Support Gut Health for Long-Term Protection
Preventing future infestations is just as important as eliminating existing worms. A strong immune system and balanced gut microbiome make it harder for parasites to thrive.
Key ways to maintain gut health:
- Feed a high-quality, species-appropriate diet (avoid excessive processed kibble).
- Incorporate fermented foods or a high-quality probiotic supplement.
- Use prebiotic-rich foods like carrots and pumpkin to feed good gut bacteria.
In my experience, dogs on a well-balanced natural diet have fewer parasite issues overall. One of my regular clients, a Boxer named Luna, used to get worms every few months. After switching to a fresh food diet with added probiotics, she hasn’t had a single case in over a year!
Common Myths About Natural Deworming
There’s a lot of misinformation out there about natural deworming. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths.
Myth #1: Natural Dewormers Work Instantly
Unlike pharmaceutical dewormers, natural options work gradually over time. They create an inhospitable environment for worms rather than killing them on the spot. This means consistency is key—don’t expect overnight results.
Myth #2: Natural Remedies Are Not as Effective as Medication
While traditional dewormers are fast-acting, they don’t prevent reinfection. Natural dewormers not only help expel parasites but also strengthen your dog’s immune system to prevent future infestations. Combining both approaches when necessary can be the best solution.
Myth #3: If My Dog Has No Symptoms, They Don’t Have Worms
Many dogs carry worms without showing obvious symptoms, especially in the early stages. Regular deworming—whether natural or pharmaceutical—can help keep your pup parasite-free.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
While natural deworming is a fantastic preventive tool, there are times when medical intervention is necessary.
See a vet if your dog:
- Has a severe worm infestation (persistent vomiting, extreme weight loss)
- Shows signs of anemia (pale gums, weakness)
- Continues to have worms despite natural treatments
- Has bloody diarrhea or severe lethargy
For extreme cases, I always recommend using a veterinarian-prescribed dewormer first, then following up with natural methods for long-term maintenance.
Final Thoughts on Natural Deworming for Dogs
Using the best natural deworming foods for dogs is a gentle, effective way to support your pet’s digestive health. While traditional medications have their place, a well-balanced diet with parasite-fighting foods and probiotics can make a world of difference. The key is consistency, variety, and paying attention to your dog’s unique needs.
Every dog is different—what works for one might not work for another. So, take your time, experiment with natural remedies, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of keeping your pup happy, healthy, and worm-free!
References
Disclaimer
The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet or health routine.
