Worms in dogs FAQs
A tapeworm can grow up to 16ft inside your dog and you wouldn’t necessarily know they’re there! Find out more about worms in dogs in our FAQs.
How long does it take for worms to leave a dog?
The time it takes for worms to leave a dog can vary and will depend on the number of worms present and the individual dog. Some worms die quickly whereas others may take a few days to die after treatment. The pet may pass out dead worms-this is completely normal and nothing to worry about. Sometimes the worms may show some slight movement, such as a flicking motion, but they will go on to die. Puppies and adult dogs with very high numbers of worms may even vomit up worms.
How do dogs get worms?
There are numerous ways dogs can become infected with intestinal worms, how they become infected will depend on the species of worm and your pet’s age and lifestyle.
- Some roundworms can cross the placenta into developing puppies, so they are born infected. Puppies can also become infected through drinking the milk of their infected mother.
- For older animals infection often comes from consuming eggs in the environment, this may be when they are outdoors playing or on a walk, but also from the transfer of eggs into the home. Grooming contaminated soil from paws and fur will cause infection.
- Fleas and lice carry immature tapeworms, cats and dogs become infected when they groom themselves and ingest the fleas and lice. Therefore adequate flea control is also important in controlling intestinal parasites too.
- The consumption of uncooked meat and eating infected prey, such as rodents and rabbits, is a source of intestinal worm eggs.
What do dog worms look like?
When we think of worms we often imagine long thin tapeworms, however most adult worms are rarely seen. It is therefore not possible to know if your pet has worms just by looking at them and their faeces. Detection requires microscopic examination of faeces for worm eggs. For this reason the use of regular preventative treatment is strongly recommended.
What are the signs of a dog having worms?
Most worm infected pets in the United Kingdom show relatively minor symptoms unless the infection is heavy. Young puppies and kittens are most vulnerable to the ill effects caused by intestinal worms. Symptoms of infection can include:
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Potbelly appearance
- Poor coat
- Lethargy
- Anaemia
- Respiratory problems
A heavy worm burden in puppies and kittens can cause an intestinal blockage which can be fatal.
