Why Does My Dog Get Worms? Learn about the different types of worms that can affect your dog, their symptoms, and the potential dangers they pose in this informative article on What Are Worms in Dogs.

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What Are Worms in Dogs?
The Science Behind the Squirm

Worms in dogs are parasitic creatures—little freeloaders that live inside your dog’s body and steal their nutrients. Most dog worms live in the intestines, but some (like heartworms) go for the heart and lungs. The most common types are:

Roundworms
Hookworms
Whipworms
Tapeworms
Heartworms

Each worm has its own life cycle, symptoms, and dangers. And while it’s no one’s favorite topic, understanding these critters is the first step toward protecting your dog.

“Intestinal worms are one of the most common health problems affecting dogs globally, and are a major concern for pet owners, veterinarians, and public health officials alike.”
— Companion Animal Parasite Council

How Do Dogs Get Worms?
All the Ways Dogs Pick Up Parasites

Dogs love to use their noses and mouths to explore the world. Unfortunately, this curiosity makes them easy targets for worms. Here’s a closer look at how the most common types of dog worms get inside your pup:

1. Contaminated Soil & Environment 🌱

Worm eggs and larvae can survive in soil for months or even years. Dogs get infected by:

Deep Dive: The Most Common Dog Worms

Let’s go a little deeper into each major type of worm, how they’re transmitted, and what they do to your dog.

Roundworms (Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina)

How dogs get them: Eating eggs from contaminated soil, infected prey, or from their mother
What they do: Live in the intestines, grow up to 7 inches long; puppies are most affected
Symptoms: Pot-belly, vomiting (sometimes with worms in it), diarrhea, dull coat, poor growth
Risks: Can be transmitted to humans, especially children

Hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum, Uncinaria stenocephala)

How dogs get them: Ingesting larvae from soil or feces, or larvae burrowing through the skin
What they do: Attach to the intestinal wall and suck blood; can cause severe anemia
Symptoms: Weakness, pale gums, diarrhea, weight loss, bloody stool
Risks: Can be deadly in puppies; can cause “creeping eruption” (skin infection) in humans

Whipworms (Trichuris vulpis)

How dogs get them: Ingesting eggs from contaminated soil or feces
What they do: Live in the large intestine, cause irritation and inflammation
Symptoms: Chronic diarrhea (sometimes with mucus or blood), weight loss, lethargy
Risks: Eggs can survive in soil for years

Tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum, Taenia spp.)

How dogs get them: Swallowing infected fleas or eating infected prey
What they do: Attach to the intestinal wall; body segments break off and exit with feces
Symptoms: “Rice grain” segments around anus or in poop, scooting, mild digestive upset
Risks: Humans can get tapeworms by swallowing infected fleas (rare)

Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis)

How dogs get them: Bite from an infected mosquito
What they do: Grow in the heart and lungs; can lead to heart failure, lung disease, and death
Symptoms: Coughing, fatigue, weight loss, breathing trouble; sometimes no symptoms until advanced
Risks: Fatal if untreated; not transmitted to humans in the same way

How Do You Know If Your Dog Has Worms?
Common and Not-So-Common Symptoms

Worms are sneaky. Some dogs show lots of symptoms, others hardly any—especially early on. Here’s what to watch for:

Digestive Signs

Diarrhea (sometimes with visible worms or blood)
Vomiting (occasionally with worms present)
Increased appetite or sudden weight loss
Pot-bellied appearance (especially in puppies)
Scooting or dragging their rear

Skin and Coat Changes

Dull, dry, or scruffy fur
Itching, licking, or biting around the tail or anus
Visible worm segments (tapeworms) stuck to fur

Energy and Behavior

Lethargy or reduced playfulness
Weakness or pale gums (signs of anemia, especially with hookworms)
Stunted growth in puppies

Other Signs

Coughing or breathing trouble (possible heartworms)
Seizures (rare, but can happen with severe infection)

“Many dogs with intestinal parasites show no outward signs at all, which is why routine veterinary checks and stool tests are so important.”
— PetMD

Can Humans Get Worms from Dogs?
Zoonotic Risks and How to Stay Safe

Yes—some dog worms can infect humans, especially children, the elderly, or people with compromised immune systems. This is known as zoonosis.

How Humans Get Worms from Dogs

Accidentally ingesting dirt or dust contaminated with worm eggs (kids playing outside, gardeners, etc.)
Poor hygiene after handling dog poop or contaminated soil
Direct contact with infected dog fur or surfaces

Risks to Humans

Roundworms: Can cause “visceral larva migrans”—larvae migrate to organs, potentially causing serious illness
Hookworms: Larvae can burrow into skin, causing rashes (“cutaneous larva migrans”)
Tapeworms: Very rarely, humans can get tapeworms from ingesting infected fleas

Preventing zoonotic infection:

Pick up pet waste promptly (and wash your hands!)
Wash hands after outdoor play, gardening, or handling pets
Teach kids not to eat dirt or put hands in their mouths after playing with dogs

“Pet owners can greatly reduce the risk of zoonotic disease by practicing good hygiene and regular veterinary care for their animals.”
— CDC

Diagnosing Worms in Dogs
What to Expect at the Vet

If you suspect your dog has worms, your veterinarian will ask for a fresh stool sample. Here’s how the process works:

Microscopic Exam: The vet looks for worm eggs, larvae, or segments in the poop using a special floatation test.
Blood Test: For heartworms, a blood test is needed to detect larvae or adult worms.
Additional Testing: If your dog has chronic diarrhea or other unexplained symptoms, your vet may run additional tests (like PCR or antigen testing).

How often should you get your dog’s stool checked?
Puppies: At least 2-4 times in their first year
Adults: 1-2 times per year (more if they’re at high risk)

How to Treat Worms in Dogs
Deworming Medications and Home Care

The good news: Most worm infections are easy to treat—if you catch them early.

Veterinary Dewormers

Prescription-only dewormers are the most effective. These come as pills, liquids, chewables, or topicals.
The type and length of treatment depends on the worm species.
Tapeworm treatment must include flea control at the same time.
Never use human dewormers or random over-the-counter products without veterinary advice.

Follow-Up Care

Repeat treatments may be needed to kill newly hatched worms.
Clean up poop immediately and wash all bedding and toys.
Keep your dog away from high-risk areas during treatment.

Natural Remedies: Do They Work?

Many pet parents ask about home remedies, like pumpkin seeds, garlic, or coconut oil. While some might have mild anti-parasitic effects, they’re not a substitute for proven veterinary medications. Home remedies are best used as supportive measures after talking to your vet.

“While some natural products can help support digestive health, there’s no substitute for prescription dewormers when it comes to treating active infections.”
— American Kennel Club

How to Prevent Worms in Dogs
A Step-by-Step Guide for Dog Parents

Prevention is always easier than treatment! Here’s how to keep your dog worm-free:

1. Routine Deworming

Puppies: Every 2 weeks until 12 weeks old, then monthly until 6 months
Adults: Every 3 months (or monthly for high-risk dogs)
Nursing mothers: Deworm at the same time as their puppies

2. Year-Round Parasite Control

Flea & tick prevention (essential for tapeworm, Lyme, and other diseases)
Heartworm preventative (especially in mosquito-prone areas)

3. Clean Up After Your Dog

Pick up poop promptly—every time, everywhere
Don’t let your dog eat or sniff unknown poop at parks or on walks

4. Limit Hunting, Scavenging, and Roaming

Don’t let your dog eat wildlife, garbage, or dead animals
Supervise outdoor play; keep dogs on-leash or in fenced yards

5. Practice Good Hygiene at Home

Wash your hands after handling dogs, playing outside, or gardening
Wash your dog’s paws and fur if they get dirty
Regularly clean bedding, toys, and food bowls

6. Vet Visits and Annual Checkups

Annual stool checks and heartworm tests
Discuss deworming and preventive care with your vet

“Even indoor dogs can get worms, since parasite eggs can be brought in on shoes or other pets. Year-round prevention is key for all dogs.”
— VCA Animal Hospitals

Frequently Asked Questions About Worms in Dogs 🐾

Can dogs get worms from eating grass?

Not directly from the grass itself, but if the grass is contaminated with worm eggs or larvae (from other animals’ poop), then yes.

How long after deworming will worms leave my dog’s body?

You might see worms in your dog’s poop for a few days after treatment. Most medications work within 24-72 hours, but follow-up treatments may be needed.

Can I get worms from letting my dog lick my face?

It’s unlikely, but not impossible, especially if your dog is infected and has recently licked their own anus or contaminated fur. Always practice good hygiene!

Do indoor dogs need deworming?

Absolutely! Parasite eggs can be tracked indoors on shoes, paws, or even by other pets.

Will my dog always show symptoms if they have worms?

Nope! Many dogs show zero signs, which is why regular vet checks and preventative care are so important.

Real Stories from the Internet: What Other Dog Parents Say

“I was shocked when my vet told me my indoor-only dog had worms. Turns out, I’d tracked parasite eggs in on my shoes from the dog park!”
— Megan, via Reddit

“We took in a rescue pup who was so bloated. After a few rounds of dewormer, she’s a whole new dog—happy, playful, and full of energy!”
— @dogmomloves via Instagram

“I thought my dog’s scooting was just a funny quirk, but my vet found tapeworms. Now I’m a poop-pickup ninja!”
— Brian S., via Dog Forum

Final Thoughts: Love Your Dog, Protect Their Health! 🐾

Worms are common, but they don’t have to be scary or inevitable. With a little knowledge, regular prevention, and a lot of love, you can keep your dog safe from these pesky parasites.

Remember, you’re not alone—millions of dog parents deal with worms every year. The key is to be proactive, partner with your vet, and never hesitate to ask questions or seek help. Your dog’s wagging tail and happy heart are worth every effort! 🥰

If you’ve got tips, questions, or your own worm-fighting stories, share them with us at DoggieJoy.com. We’re all about keeping dogs healthy, happy, and ready for their next adventure by your side. 🐕💖

Now, go give your pup a cuddle—and maybe a treat for being such a good dog! 🦴✨