Finding worms in your dog’s feces can be a concerning experience for any pet owner. While it’s an unpleasant topic, intestinal parasites are a common issue in dogs, and thankfully, most are treatable. This guide will help you understand why your dog might have worms, identify common symptoms, and outline the diagnostic and treatment processes typically followed by veterinarians.
Why Does My Dog Have Worms in Their Poop?
The most common reason for seeing worms in your dog’s stool is the presence of intestinal parasites. You might also notice small, white, segment-like specks, often described as looking like grains of rice, which are characteristic of certain types of worms.
How Do Dogs Get Worms?
Dogs most frequently contract worms by ingesting infected feces or by consuming raw meat that contains parasite eggs or larvae. The heat from cooking typically kills these parasites.
Puppies are particularly vulnerable and can be infected by their mother. This transmission can occur before birth through the placenta or after birth via the mother’s milk if she is infected. Additionally, some parasites, like hookworms, can infect a dog through simple skin contact with contaminated feces or soil, not requiring ingestion.
The 4 Most Common Types of Intestinal Parasites in Dogs and Their Symptoms
While various intestinal parasites can affect dogs, four types are particularly common. Understanding their appearance and associated symptoms is crucial for early detection.
Roundworms
Roundworms are highly prevalent in dogs and are often transmitted through feces or from infected mothers to their puppies. Adult dogs may show subtle signs like diarrhea, vomiting, or the visible presence of worms in their stool. Puppies, however, are more severely affected, potentially developing a distended abdomen and stunted growth. Severe roundworm infections can be life-threatening for puppies.
Tapeworms
Tapeworms are typically contracted when a dog ingests infected fleas or raw meat, often from consuming wild animals. While less common, infection from commercially prepared raw meat is also possible. The most noticeable sign of tapeworms is the presence of small, white, rice-like segments in a dog’s feces or around their anus.
Hookworms
Hookworm infections occur when dogs ingest or come into contact with infected feces or soil. Due to their small, thin nature, hookworms are rarely visible in stool. However, dogs infected with hookworms often display several symptoms, including lethargy that can worsen over time, diarrhea (which may be bloody), black or tarry stools, weight loss, and signs of anemia. Hookworm infections pose a significant risk, especially to puppies, and require immediate veterinary attention if suspected.
Whipworms
Whipworms are another common intestinal parasite transmitted primarily through the ingestion of infected feces. While small, whip-like worms may occasionally be seen in stool, other symptoms can include a pot-bellied appearance, signs of anemia, dehydration, weight loss, and diarrhea that may contain blood or mucus. Like other parasites, whipworms can cause severe, life-threatening infections in puppies, while adult dogs might not exhibit obvious symptoms until the infection is advanced.
How to Prevent Your Dog From Getting Worms
Preventing worm infections largely involves minimizing your dog’s exposure to potential sources of contamination. Keeping your dog away from feces, especially in areas frequented by multiple dogs like dog parks, is essential. Avoiding contact with wild animals also reduces risk. Regularly administering a veterinarian-prescribed monthly dewormer can be an effective preventive measure against common parasites like roundworms and hookworms.
How are Worms in Dogs Diagnosed?
Veterinarians typically diagnose intestinal parasites through a fecal examination. This microscopic analysis allows the vet to detect worm eggs or larvae, even if adult worms are not visible in the stool. The vet will also consider any symptoms your dog is exhibiting.
How are Worms in Dogs Treated?
Treatment for parasitic infections usually involves a dewormer medication prescribed by your veterinarian. The specific dewormer and dosage will depend on the type of parasite identified and the severity of the infection.
Can an Intestinal Parasite be Life Threatening in Dogs?
Yes, intestinal parasitic infections can become life-threatening if left untreated, particularly in young puppies and dogs with compromised immune systems. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical for a positive outcome.
If you reside in the Fort Washington, Maryland area and suspect your dog has worms, Indian Head Animal Hospital offers expert diagnosis, treatment, and prevention services for various parasites. You can contact them at (301) 292-1150 or request an appointment online.
