Introduction
When it comes to our canine companions, we want to provide the best care possible. However, despite our best efforts, our dogs may still become infected with intestinal worms. While the thought of worms may seem unsettling, worm infections are a common occurrence for many dogs. The good news is that with proper prevention, diagnosis and treatment, we can protect our dogs and keep their digestive systems free from these unwanted guests.
In this article, we’ll explore the basics of dog worms – what they are, how dogs get them, the signs of infection, and how to treat and prevent worm infestations. We’ll also answer the question “do dogs poop out worms?” By understanding the lifecycle and behavior of common dog worms, we can better protect the health of our furry friends.
Whether you’re a new dog owner or a seasoned veteran, this guide will provide helpful information to keep your canine companion worm-free and healthy. Let’s dive in and learn more about the wiggly world of dog worms!
What are Dog Worms?
Worms are parasitic organisms that live in a dog’s body and feed off of the food the dog ingests. There are several different types of worms that can infect dogs:
- Roundworms – The most common intestinal worm found in dogs. There are two main species: Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina (AKC, 2022). Roundworms are long, spaghetti-shaped worms that live in the dog’s intestines.
- Hookworms – Hookworms attach themselves to the intestinal wall and feed on the dog’s blood, causing anemia. Ancylostoma caninum and Uncinaria stenocephala are common species of hookworms.
- Whipworms – Whipworms live in the cecum and colon. Trichuris vulpis is the species that infects dogs. They cause chronic diarrhea.
- Tapeworms – Tapeworms live in the small intestine and absorb nutrients. Dipylidium caninum is the most common tapeworm species in dogs.
These intestinal worms are microscopic in size but can cause major health problems if not treated. Some worms like roundworms and hookworms can also infect humans.
How Do Dogs Get Worms?
Dogs can get infected with worms in several ways:
- Ingesting worm eggs or larvae from contaminated soil, food or water [1]
- Eating intermediate hosts like fleas, mice or birds that carry worm larvae [2]
- Through mother to puppy transmission in utero or via milk [1]
- Coming into contact with infected feces or anal secretions [2]
Some common worms transmitted to dogs include:
- Roundworms – Ingesting eggs from soil or rodents [2]
- Hookworms – Larvae from contaminated soil [1]
- Whipworms – Ingesting soil or licking contaminated surfaces [2]
- Tapeworms – Eating infected fleas or prey [1]
Worm eggs and larvae are everywhere in the environment. Good hygiene and preventative medication are key to protecting dogs.
[1] https://www.petmd.com/dog/parasites/what-do-when-your-dog-has-worms
[2] https://www.pumpkin.care/blog/how-do-dogs-get-worms/
Signs of a Worm Infection
There are several symptoms pet owners may notice if their dog has a worm infection:
- Diarrhea – This can sometimes contain blood or mucus. Worms irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing inflammation and loose stools.
- Vomiting – Similar to diarrhea, vomiting can occur when worms irritate the GI tract. Roundworms sometimes make dogs vomit up worms.
- Coughing – If worms migrate and infest the lungs, like roundworms and hookworms, dogs may cough.
- Fatigue and weight loss – Intestinal worms can impair nutrient absorption. This may cause fatigue, poor body condition, and weight loss.
- Pot belly appearance – Some worms cause a swollen abdomen or distended belly.
- Dull coat – Worms can contribute to dry, dull hair coats in dogs.
- Scooting – Anal itching may cause dogs to scoot their bottoms along the ground.
According to PetMD, visible worms or worm segments in the stool or around the anus are clear signs of an infestation. Owners may see small white worms in the dog’s feces or dried segments around the anus. Some worms, like tapeworms, may even be seen crawling on the dog’s fur near their backside.
It’s important to inspect the dog’s stool and watch for any signs of worms. Owners should look for live or dead worms in the feces. They may be visible to the naked eye. Certain worms can cause mucus or blood in the stool as well. If worms are suspected, a fecal test can check for worm eggs under a microscope.
Diagnosing Worms
Veterinarians use a variety of diagnostic tests to check dogs for worm infections. The most common method is a fecal flotation test, which examines a stool sample under a microscope to look for parasite eggs https://pawsafe.com/blogs/dog-healthcare/how-to-tell-if-a-dog-has-worms. If eggs are present, the vet can identify the type of worm based on their shape and appearance. Some worms like tapeworms shed segments in a dog’s stool that can be directly observed rather than just their eggs. Blood tests may also check for antigens related to certain worm species, such as heartworm. Diagnostic imaging like x-rays or ultrasound can also help vets detect signs of worms in a dog’s organs or tissues.
In some cases, vets may collect an entire worm passed in a stool sample and identify it visually under a microscope. This provides definitive proof and identification of a worm infection. Vets can also examine the lining of the intestines directly with an endoscope to look for attached worms. Overall, a combination of diagnostic tests along with a physical exam allows veterinarians to accurately diagnose if a dog has intestinal worms or other parasitic infections.
Treating Worms
There are several effective medications used to treat worms in dogs. The most common de-worming medications are:
- Fenbendazole – This medication treats roundworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. Brand names include Panacur and Safeguard. It is typically given for 3-5 days. (https://www.vieravet.com/services/dogs/deworming-dogs)
- Praziquantel – This treats tapeworms. Common brand names include Droncit and Drontal. It is often combined with pyrantel pamoate to treat roundworms as well. It is given as a single dose. (https://www.lombardvet.com/services/dogs/parasites/deworming-dogs)
- Pyrantel pamoate – This treats roundworms and hookworms. Common brands include Nemex and Strongid. It is given as a single dose that can be repeated in 2 weeks.
- Milbemycin oxime – This treats roundworms, whipworms, and hookworms. It is given monthly as a preventative. Common brand names include Interceptor Plus, Sentinel, and Trifexis.
Other medications like ivermectin and moxidectin are also used. The specific deworming medication prescribed will depend on the type of worm infecting the dog, severity of infestation, and the dog’s health status. Always follow your veterinarian’s recommendations.
Preventing Worms
There are several ways pet owners can help prevent worms in dogs:
Deworming: Work with your veterinarian to establish a regular deworming schedule for your dog. Puppies should be dewormed starting at 2 weeks old, then every 2 weeks until 12 weeks old. Adult dogs should be dewormed at least 2-4 times per year based on risk factors. Products like praziquantel, pyrantel pamoate, or ivermectin help eliminate worms.
Sanitation: Pick up dog poop promptly from your yard and when walking your dog. Clean up any vomit or diarrhea right away. Keep dog areas clean and disinfected.
Flea/tick control: Use monthly flea and tick preventatives as recommended by your vet. Fleas and ticks can transmit worms.
Limit raw meat: Avoid feeding raw meat or fish, which may contain parasite eggs. Cook meat fully before feeding.
Careful outdoors: When hiking or at dog parks, try to keep your dog from eating feces, soil, or drinking standing water which could contain worm eggs/larvae.
New pet checks: Have fecal exams done on any new dog before introducing to your home and family dogs.
By following these preventative guidelines, pet owners can help reduce the risk of parasitic worm infections in their canine companions. Though not completely foolproof, being proactive is key.
Do Dogs Poop Out Worms?
Generally speaking, yes – you may see evidence of worms in your dog’s stool after they have been dewormed. However, it depends on the type of worm and treatment method.
For example, after receiving medication to treat tapeworms, remnants of the worms may pass through and be visible in your dog’s feces. Tapeworms have segmented bodies, so you may see small, rice-shaped pieces that are shed from their bodies as they die and are eliminated.
Roundworms and hookworms reside in the intestinal tract, rather than anchored to it like tapeworms. After deworming medication, they are often digested and not visible in the stool. However, in severe cases, some worms may be expelled and noticeable in the feces.
After starting deworming medication, monitor your dog’s stools for any evidence of worms being passed. Finding worms in the feces is a good indication that treatment is working. The medication is effectively killing the worms and allowing your dog’s body to eliminate them.
Always finish the full course of any prescribed deworming medication. Even if you see no further evidence of worms, completing the treatment helps fully rid your dog’s body of the parasitic infection.
Consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about worms continuing to appear after deworming treatment. They can advise you on the best medication and course of action for your dog’s situation.
## When to See the Vet
In most cases, regular deworming and preventative care is sufficient for handling a dog’s worm burden. However, some signs and symptoms warrant a veterinary visit to diagnose and treat a possible worm infection:
- Visible worms in your dog’s vomit or stool
- Diarrhea, especially if bloody or mucus-filled
- Vomiting worms or parts of worms
- Coughing
- Weight loss
- Dull coat
- Pot-bellied appearance
- Colic or abdominal pain
If your dog is displaying any of these signs, take them to the veterinarian promptly. The vet will check a stool sample for evidence of worms and can provide the proper deworming medication to clear up an infection. Early treatment prevents complications and helps assure your dog’s good health.
Sources:
https://www.petmd.com/dog/parasites/what-do-when-your-dog-has-worms
Conclusion
In conclusion, worms are a common health issue for dogs that pet owners need to be aware of. There are various types of intestinal worms like roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms that dogs can contract. Worms spread through contaminated soil, stool, or fleas and can cause symptoms like a potbelly appearance, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, and weight loss.
Diagnosing a worm infection involves a fecal exam and sometimes an ELISA test. Several safe and effective dewormers are available that easily clear up most worm infections. Prevention involves keeping the dog’s environment clean, washing hands, preventing fleas, and regular deworming. Puppies should be dewormed starting at 2 weeks old, then monthly until 6 months, and 1-4 times yearly for adults depending on risk.
Yes, it’s common to see whole worms passed in a dog’s stool during a deworming treatment. This is a sign the medication is working properly. If worm symptoms persist beyond a couple treatments, it’s best to follow up with a veterinarian. With prompt treatment and prevention, intestinal worms can be well-controlled in dogs.