Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has Giardia but no symptoms. Should I treat or will it go away?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 2 years and 3 months old | 17 lbs

My 2 year old dog tested positive for Giardia but is not showing any symptoms. Should I treat her even though she is not having any symptoms? Would giardia go away on its own?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on November 12th, 2018

There are varying opinions on whether or not to treat asymptotic patients for giardia. I tend to be on the mindset that some giardia can be zoonotic meaning transmitable to humans so I usually treat. Did she test positive on a routine fecal test or was there a reason she was tested? Sometimes the immune system can clear giardia on its own, but we don’t see that happen very often. If your veterinarian were to recommend waiting and testing again in a month or so that would be appropriate as well. Best of luck and I hope this helps answer your question. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Lauren Celestin, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Dentistry Resident

    Published on June 19th, 2017

    Hello there! This is very much doctor and client preference. I personally recommend treating regardless of symptoms and re-testing the stool 2 - 4 weeks prior to completion of the treatment. Treatment is also very simple. That way you don't have to deal with diarrhea and both you and Holly (mostly you) can sleep well knowing that she no longer has an intestinal parasite. Hope this helps in your decision making!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why do my hermit crab's mites keep returning? How to get rid of them?
Is your hermit crab battling recurring mites? A certified veterinarian explains why these persistent mites keep coming back and how to effectively address them. Get expert advice!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Found a worm in my new chick's water dish. Is it a parasite?
Concerned about a worm in your new chick's water dish? A certified vet discusses possible parasites and recommends a fecal exam for your young chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored