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Do I need to get a yearly fecal exam for my dog? Why is it important?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Female | spayed | 5 years and 1 month old | 17 lbs

Is it necessary to get a fecal exam done yearly for my dog? Why or why not?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on August 14th, 2017

A fecal test is encouraged to be done yearly. A fecal test screens for parasites that Chloe could get from exposure to other dog's fecal matter or infected soil or water. If Chloe is on a heart worm preventative product monthly that also contains a dewormer (many of these products do), then Chloe would be at a lower risk for certain parasitic worms, but would still be at risk for other parasites like protozoa which can cause illness in dogs.

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    Answered By Isabelle Roese, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on

    I would advise a fecal exam yearly as you would be surprised of all parasites (eggs of parasites) seen under a microscope). The most common intestinal parasite I diagnose in adult dogs are hookworms and tapeworm. That said, if your dog is an a monthly heartworm and flea preventative that is also labeled for intestinal parasites I would not be as concerned. If there are young children or grandchildren in the house and/or visiting often, than, yes, yearly fecal exam and routine dewormers for sure do to zoonotic potential. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.com.

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