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My dog's food has worms, and he's lethargic. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 20 days old

I examined my dogs food and saw worms in it. I got him deformed but he isn't eating the way he does. And he is just a little lethargic. What shouldIdo

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 10th, 2016

You should not feed your dog food that has worms in it. This would be a sign of decay, which could give your dog food poisoning. Please get fresh food for him (Kibble or canned). I would not eat this contaminated food either. Give him some boiled rice and boiled chicken today instead and observe him if he is still off-color tomorrow, then please take him to a veterinarian for an exam.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    If you saw worms in his food, I would be concerned that it may have been spoiled - he may have an upset stomach now because of this. If he's acting pretty normal otherwise, you can try feeding him some plain boiled chicken and white rice for the next 2-3 days to help settle his stomach and get his appetite back to normal, then gradually transition back to his regular diet. If he develops any other symptoms, or if the lethargy and decreased appetite don't improve, then I would recommend having him checked by a vet to see if something else may be wrong.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I would be concerned his food had spoiled because there are works in it. Do not give him anymore of that food, and buy him fresh food. For today, feed him a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken (no bones) and white rice in small amounts several times a day. If he is still lethargic tomorrow, take him into your vet.

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