Dogs are naturally curious animals—they love sniffing, digging, and even eating things they shouldn't. While this behavior is part of their charm, it also exposes them to parasites, especially intestinal worms. Worms are a common health concern for dogs of all ages and breeds. Fortunately, they can be treated and prevented with proper care.
In this guide, we'll explore the types of worms found in dogs, the signs of infection, how they're transmitted, and what you can do to keep your dog worm-free.
Common Types of Worms in Dogs
These are the most common intestinal parasites in dogs. Roundworms resemble long, white spaghetti and can grow several inches in length. Puppies commonly acquire these worms from their mother before birth or through nursing. Adult dogs, on the other hand, typically become infected by coming into contact with contaminated soil or by consuming infected animals.
Hookworms are small, thin worms that latch onto the dog's intestinal wall and feed on blood. This can lead to severe blood loss, especially in puppies. They're usually contracted through ingestion or skin contact with contaminated environments.
These flat, segmented worms are commonly spread through fleas. If your dog swallows a flea carrying tapeworm larvae during grooming, they can become infected. You might notice rice-like segments near your dog's rear or in their stool.
Whipworms live in the large intestine and are harder to detect. Dogs usually get them by ingesting infected feces or soil. A light infection may not show symptoms, but a heavy one can cause serious digestive issues.
Unlike intestinal worms, heartworms live in the heart and lungs. Mosquito bites can spread them and can be fatal if not treated early. Prevention is key, as treatment can be risky and expensive.
How Dogs Get Worms
Dogs can pick up worms in several ways:
- Eating contaminated food or soil
- Contact with infected feces
- From mother to puppy (before birth or while nursing)
- Flea or mosquito bites
- Hunting and eating rodents or birds
Because dogs often explore with their mouths and noses, they can easily accidentally ingest worm larvae or eggs.
Symptoms of Worm Infestation in Dogs
The symptoms vary depending on the type of worm, but common signs include:
- Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
- Bloated belly (especially in puppies)
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Visible worms in stool or vomit
- Itching or dragging the rear end on the ground
- Coughing (in case of heartworm or lungworm)
- Fatigue or low energy levels
- Pale gums (due to anemia from blood loss)
If you see any of these symptoms, consult your vet for diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Your veterinarian can confirm worm infection through a stool or blood test (for heartworms). Treatment depends on the type of worm. Most intestinal worms can be cleared with deworming medications, such as pills, chewables, or spot-on treatments. Heartworm treatment is more complex and often requires hospitalization.
It is important to complete the full course of treatment as advised by your vet and follow up with fecal exams to ensure all parasites are gone.
Prevention Tips
Use Preventive Medication
Many monthly treatments are available that protect against multiple types of worms. Ask your vet to recommend a broad-spectrum parasite preventive.
Regular Deworming
To ensure proper protection against intestinal parasites, puppies should undergo deworming every 2 to 3 weeks up to 12 weeks of age, followed by a monthly schedule until they reach 6 months old. Adult dogs should be dewormed regularly, depending on their lifestyle and risk level.
Keep the Environment Clean
Pick up your dog's poop promptly, clean your backyard, and avoid letting your dog roam unsupervised in areas with high contamination risk.
Flea and Mosquito Control
To reduce the risk of tapeworms and heartworms, prevent flea infestations, and mosquito bites. Use flea collars, spot-on treatments, and mosquito repellents as recommended.
Routine Vet Visits
Regular checkups and stool testing help catch infections early and keep your dog healthy.
Can Humans Get Worms from Dogs?
Yes, some worms, like roundworms and hookworms, can be passed to humans, especially children or individuals with weak immune systems. Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands after touching your dog or cleaning up after them, helps prevent transmission.
Final Thoughts
Worms are a serious but manageable health issue in dogs. You can protect your dog from these unwanted parasites with routine vet care, preventive treatment, and good hygiene. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and your dog will thank you with a wagging tail and good health!
