Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My dog is losing weight. Should I use horse dewormer for worms?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | unneutered | 4 years and 6 months old | 70 lbs

My dog has lost a bunch of weight I think because of worms is it safe to give him safe-guard equine horse dewormer he's about 3-4years old & weighs about 70 lbs he's a lab & pit mix I do believe

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on July 20th, 2019

Hi there. Significant weight loss in an adult dog is unlikely to be due to intestinal parasites, so I would be concerned that something more serious is probably going on. Because of this, I would really recommend taking your dog to the vet for an exam as a starting point. He/she can do a fecal exam to check for parasites, but may also recommend blood work and x-rays if needed to help diagnose the problem and see what kind of treatment is needed. If you opt to give a dewormer yourself at home, I would not use an equine dewormer - use one that is labeled for use in dogs, such as Panacur or Bayer Quad Dewormer. Follow the dosing instructions on the label for your dog's weight.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Sponsored