Worms are among the most troublesome endoparasites that can infest a dog. There are certain signs of worms in dogs that you should be aware of.
In the following guide we will tell you how you can recognize worms in dogs based on symptoms.
You will also receive helpful information about treatment options at home or from the veterinarian.
Worms symptoms in dogs: what are the typical signs?
If a dog has worms, the dog will experience symptoms, among other things diarrhea, decreased appetite and weight loss on.
If worms cause symptoms in dogs, they are usually the result of tapeworms or roundworms that have settled in the dog’s intestines.
In addition, there are other signs of worms that can help you spot those pesky endoparasites – and we’re going to take a closer look at those now.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is the most common consequence of a classic worm infestation. Why does this occur? Because tapeworms, roundworms or hookworms live in the dog’s intestinal tract.
Here they suck blood, deprive the dog of important nutrients and cause further damage.
The diarrhea, which can sometimes be bloody, is an attempt to excrete these parasites – and you can often see a worm in the faeces.
Vomit
Anyone who causes a lot of unrest in the intestine also has an effect on the dog’s stomach. Vomiting worms is another sign in dogs.
Roundworms are usually the cause of the symptom in dogs.
Decreased appetite & weight loss
Dogs with worms often suffer from a reduced appetite – but the opposite can also be the result, the dog even eats significantly more.
In the process, he loses weight – because the worms deprive the dog of important nutrients, and diarrhea is often added.
These two factors are enough to give a dog what is probably the world’s most involuntary diet.
Bloating & a hard stomach
You can also recognize worms in dogs by flatulence and a hard stomach.
This is usually a very advanced worm infestation that has not been treated.
It occurs mainly in puppies and is a clear indication of worms, a typical symptom of an infestation in dogs.
itching
Worms are often excreted in the faeces and can cause itching in the anus.
Diarrhea can also cause this reaction, because ultimately the dog’s bottom has become extremely sore.
Can you see that your dog is sledding or butt-sliding? Then a worm infestation may have been the cause.
anemia
Anemia is also a clear sign of worms. Anemia is usually the result of a heavy infestation with hookworms.
In order to recognize these worms, you should especially keep an eye on your dog’s breathing.
Because this is usually elevated and flat. The dog can also have a slight fever, an increased need for sleep and swollen lymph nodes.
When should I go to the vet and what are the treatment options for worms in dogs?
If you suspect your dog has worms, you should go to the vet as soon as possible.
Ideally, you’ve already collected a few fecal samples for your vet to use for a fecal analysis.
This is the only way he can a) confirm (or rule out) the worm infestation and b) also determine the type of worm infestation.
This is important because all of the above symptoms that you can use to identify worms can also indicate other diseases.
It is therefore all the more important that the exact reason can be found promptly and appropriate treatment can be initiated.
Which brings us to the treatment options, which include dewormers and spot-ons, as well as some home remedies.
IMPORTANT
A chemical wormer has no preventive effect. It should never be given to a dog on suspicion, but only in the event of an acute worm infestation.
wormers
You can usually get these wormers directly from the vet, who may also give them to the dog at the same time.
Spot Ons
Spot-ons are also small chemical bludgeons that, in many cases, can render a wide variety of parasites harmless.
In contrast to a wormer, these remedies have a preventative effect, so they can prevent a parasite from settling on or in your dog in the first place.
coconut
You can give coconut as a prevention against worms, among other things. It doesn’t really matter in which form.
Many dog owners rub their fur noses with coconut oil – this also ensures a shiny coat, but also leaves a decent layer of fat.
Coconut oil can also be mixed with the feed – just like coconut flakes. Both of course in organic quality, please.
Pumpkin Seeds & Turmeric
Pumpkin seeds and turmeric contain cucurbitin, a compound that worms hate.
These home remedies should also be suitable for ending an acute worm infestation and preventing another one.
IMPORTANT
These home remedies can be a good support if you have recognized signs of worms in the dog, but in an emergency they do not replace a visit to the vet!
Are you looking for other home remedies that can help with a worm infestation of your fur nose?
Then just take a look at our guide to worms in dogs: 6 home remedies that are guaranteed to help.
Has your dog ever had worms and what signs of worms did you recognize them by? We’d love for you to share your experiences and tips with us in the comments!