The Features Of Worms In Dogs

Any experienced canine owner will know what a persistent nuisance worms in dogs can be. Serious health issues can arise for dogs when they have worms, especially if the infestation is in a puppy.

Although worms in dogs pose a health threat for both animals and humans, their lifecycle happens to be extremely interesting. Understanding how to identify worms in dogs can be highly beneficial to your dog’s health, as well as quite fascinating.

Worm Length

The most common worms in dogs usually grow to being about seven inches and these are known as roundworms. Hookworms are another type of worm you will commonly find in dogs. These tend to be a lot smaller than their roundworm siblings. Complications of tissue migration are less frequent as a result of this.

Identifying By Colouring and Shape

Worms in dogs share similarities in their colouring. They will be a spaghetti shape and tan to white in colour. The exception to this is tapes worms, which tend to be short, flat and red in colouring. They are usually found in a dog’s faeces and can be serious. Consult a vet immediately if you find what you think are tapeworms.

Where Should I Look?

Once you know what worms in dogs look like, you will be ready to start keeping an eye out for them in your pet and to identify what sort of worm infestation they have. It is important to know where to look.

There are two places you should look for worms in dogs: their faeces and their vomit. Dogs pass worms in their stool, so check it regularly. As part of their lifecycle worms will infest near the throat. They may then be vomited by the host. Before clearing your dogs vomit, give it a quick once over for worms.

Once you know how to look for dog worms, you can minimise the risk they pose on the dog’s health.