A guide to worms in dogs

Are worms dangerous to dogs?

Worms can harm dogs in various ways. Depending on the type of worm, an infestation can lead to symptoms such as weight loss, exercise intolerance, general malaise, and in rare cases, even death.

If you see worms in your dog’s stool, suspect exposure to worms, or notice any symptoms, take them to your vet right away for an examination.

How do I know what kind of worm my dog has?

Worms can be difficult to see. Here are the most common types of worms found in dog poop:

• Roundworms – These are the most common intestinal parasites in dogs. They look like spaghetti or a rubber band – long and cylindrical.
• Lungworms and Hookworms – Small worms that attach to the intestinal wall. Usually not visible to the naked eye but can be identified under a microscope from a poo sample. Dogs can sometimes cough with lungworm
• Whipworms – Reside in the large intestine and cecum and can be a cause of bloody diarrhoea.
• Tapeworms – Long, flat worms that live in the small intestine. Appear in dog poo as small, flat segments, resembling grains of rice.

What are the signs that your dog has worms?

While the signs will vary depending on the type of worms, here are some general signs to look out for:

• Weight loss despite a good appetite
• A bloated belly, especially in puppies
• Diarrhoea, sometimes with blood
• Vomiting, occasionally with visible worms
• Dry, dull coat
• Weakness and lethargy
• Visible worms in dog’s poop or “scooting” behaviour
• Coughing (in case of lungworm)

Can I treat my dog for worms without going to the vet?

You should not attempt self-diagnosis. If you see worms, this usually indicates a heavy worm burden in your dog, so consult a vet before taking any action regarding worm issues.

How do you get rid of worms in dogs?

Follow the treatment plan provided by your vet. If your dog is diagnosed with worms, this typically includes administering a single or a course of deworming medication. After treatment, have your dog retested to confirm that all worms have been eliminated.

Using a worming product doesn’t eliminate all worms. Instead, it decreases the worm burden and stops them from overwhelming your pet. Consistent worming treatment is vital for your pet’s overall health.

How do you prevent worms in dogs?

• Schedule regular veterinary check-ups for your dog to ensure their overall health. Your vet can perform faecal tests to detect most intestinal worms.
• Administer year-round preventive treatments as recommended by your vet. These treatments protect against various types of worms.
• Ensure proper hygiene by promptly cleaning up your dog’s faeces.
• Avoid letting your dog’s become infected by sniffing or licking other dogs’ faeces.
• Prevent your dog from eating wild animals or scavenging for food.
• Monitor your dog for fleas, as infected fleas can transmit tapeworms.

Worms and puppies

Puppies are more prone to worm infestations than adult dogs, they can even become infected whilst unborn, which can lead to serious health issues.

It’s essential to begin deworming treatments early to protect your furry friend and ensure they grow healthy and strong.

Are dog worms contagious to humans?

Certain worms in dogs can be transmissible to humans. Many worms infesting dogs are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted from animals to humans, but this is not common. You can reduce the risk of infection by worming your dog regularly and by good hygiene, such as washing your hands after handling pets and before eating.

By staying informed and taking proactive measures, you can help ensure your dog leads a happy and healthy life, free from the discomfort and health risks associated with worm infestations.

If you suspect your dog may have an intestinal infestation, contact your vet first. If you notice these signs outside of regular hours, contact your local Vets Now pet emergency clinic.