Roundworms are common internal parasites that affect dogs, living in their intestines and appearing as long, tube-shaped worms. Regular deworming and disposal of dog feces are key steps in preventing dog roundworm infections.
Roundworms may also present a health risk to humans. Accidental ingestion of roundworm eggs from contaminated soil or objects can lead to infection, with young children being especially vulnerable due to their tendency to put objects in their mouths while playing outdoors.
What Are Roundworms in Dogs?
Roundworms, also known as ascarids, are common intestinal parasites in dogs. Dogs typically become infected by ingesting roundworm eggs from contaminated soil or feces or by consuming small animals that carry the larvae in their tissues. Once inside the dog’s body, the eggs hatch and the adult worms feed on nutrients in the small intestine, leading to digestive problems and potential damage to the intestinal lining.
Roundworm infections persist in puppies, so breeders and veterinarians often include routine deworming as part of early care. Since an infected dog can shed millions of eggs daily—and because these parasites can also infect humans—it’s crucial to maintain a regular deworming schedule and practice good hygiene, such as washing hands after handling pets or cleaning up after them.
To ensure your dog remains healthy, it’s recommended to screen for intestinal parasites, including roundworms, at least four times during the first year of life and at least twice a year for adult dogs, depending on their health and lifestyle.
Symptoms of Roundworms in Dogs
Roundworms primarily reside in a dog’s small intestine but can also migrate to other organs, like the lungs, during their larval stage. While some dogs may show no signs of infection, common gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms include:
- Swollen abdomen
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Coughing
- Lethargy
- Visible adult worms in stool or vomit (they appear white or tan, resembling spaghetti, and can grow between 3-7 inches long)
How Dogs Get Infected with Roundworms
Dogs can contract roundworms through various routes:
- Ingesting feces from infected animals.
- Eating infected rodents.
- Consuming vomit from infected animals.
- Puppies can become infected in utero from their mother.
- Puppies can also acquire roundworms through nursing from an infected mother.
Diagnosing Roundworm Infections in Dogs
If you notice symptoms of roundworms or see worms in your dog’s stool or vomit, visit your vet for a correct diagnosis and treatment. Bringing a fresh stool sample (less than 24 hours old) can help with testing. During a physical exam, a vet may detect a swollen abdomen or observe weight loss, particularly in puppies, as well as signs like coughing.
Roundworm infections are confirmed through a fecal flotation test. During this test, your dog’s stool is combined with a special solution that makes the worm eggs rise to the top. This layer is examined under a microscope, where roundworm eggs are easily identified. The presence of adult worms in stool or vomit is also a clear indicator of infection.
Treatment for Roundworms in Dogs
Treating roundworm infections is straightforward. Common oral dewormers include pyrantel, milbemycin, fenbendazole, and moxidectin. However, dewormers kill only adult worms, not the eggs. Depending on the medication, your dog may require one to three treatments to eliminate adult worms and newly hatched larvae.
In multi-dose treatments, the initial dose is followed by two more doses spaced 7-10 days apart, allowing existing eggs to hatch and become vulnerable to the medication. Puppies can begin deworming as early as two weeks old, but it’s crucial to follow dosage instructions carefully, as incorrect use in very young animals can be dangerous.
Recovery and Follow-Up Care
Following your vet’s instructions is key for a full recovery. Make sure to give all prescribed doses on schedule. Repeat fecal tests are usually recommended at 2 and 4 weeks after treatment to ensure the infection is fully cleared.
Since a single roundworm can produce up to 80,000 eggs daily, reinfection is possible. To prevent this, puppies should have fecal exams every 3-6 months, while adult dogs should be tested every 6-12 months, depending on their health and environment.
Preventing Roundworm Infections in Dogs
You can reduce the risk of roundworm infections by:
- Deworming puppies and new pets early
- Keeping your dog from eating rodents
- Regularly cleaning bedding, food, and water dishes
- Using monthly parasite preventatives (some heartworm medications include roundworm prevention)
- Scheduling regular fecal exams
Can Humans Get Roundworms from Dogs?
Although rare, humans can become infected by ingesting roundworm eggs from contaminated soil or feces. This is more common in young children who may put dirty hands or objects in their mouths. Direct contact with dogs doesn’t usually cause infection since eggs must mature outside the host for about 14 days before becoming infectious. Regular handwashing, especially after handling pets or cleaning up after them, is the best way to prevent human infection.
