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Signs and Symptoms of Worm Infestation in Dogs: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

Signs and Symptoms of Worm Infestation in Dogs: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

By SniffnTail, 5 mins Read

Last Updated: May 20, 2025

Worm infestations are a frequent canine health issue, but they usually go unnoticed until signs turn serious. Learning to recognize signs of worms in dogs can enable you to take proactive action and save your furry companion from pain—and in some instances, life-threatening illness.

In this guide, we’ll cover the most common signs of worms in dogs, behavioral changes to watch for, symptoms by worm type, and how to tell if your dog has worms. Plus, we’ll explain when it’s time to see your vet.

Common Visible Symptoms of Worms in Dogs

Worms can affect your dog’s digestive system, appearance, and even their growth and energy levels. Here are some of the most common visible symptoms of a worm infestation:

Vomiting
If your dog is vomiting frequently, especially if you notice worms in the vomit, this could be a strong indicator of a roundworm or tapeworm infestation.
Diarrhea
Loose, watery, or bloody stool can point to intestinal parasites, particularly hookworms. Chronic diarrhea is a major red flag.
Pot-Bellied Appearance
A swollen, round belly—especially in puppies—is a classic sign of a heavy worm load. This is commonly associated with roundworms.
Weight Loss
Despite eating normally or even more than usual, a dog with worms may lose weight because the parasites are absorbing vital nutrients.
Dull Coat or Skin Issues
A lackluster coat, itchy skin, or the appearance of sores can be a sign your dog isn’t absorbing nutrients properly due to a worm infestation.
Scooting or Licking the Rear
Dogs may drag their bottoms across the floor or excessively lick their anal area due to irritation caused by worms, especially tapeworms.

Behavioral Changes Caused by Worm Infestation

Worms don’t just affect your dog’s body—they can also influence their behavior.

Lethargy: A normally playful dog becoming unusually tired or uninterested in activities may be suffering from a parasite.
Increased Appetite: Some dogs may eat more in an attempt to make up for the nutrients the worms are stealing.
Restlessness or Irritability: Discomfort caused by worms can make your dog anxious or cranky.

Symptoms by Type of Worm

Different worms affect dogs in different ways. Understanding which worms cause which symptoms can help in identifying the problem more accurately.

Roundworms
- Vomiting (sometimes with visible worms)
- Pot-bellied appearance
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
Hookworms
- Bloody diarrhea
- Weakness or anemia (pale gums)
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
Tapeworms
- Scooting
- Visible segments (like grains of rice) in stool or around the anus
- Increased appetite
- Mild weight loss
Whipworms
- Chronic diarrhea (may contain mucus or blood)
- Weight loss
- Dehydration
Heartworms (Spread by mosquitoes; not intestinal)
- Persistent coughing
- Fatigue after mild exercise
- Difficulty breathing
- Swollen abdomen due to fluid buildup
- Collapse in severe cases

How to Tell If Your Dog Has Worms

While visual symptoms help, the only sure way to tell if your dog has worms is through a veterinary examination, including fecal testing or blood work (especially for heartworms).

Here are some cues to look for:

Any of the visible or behavioral symptoms listed above
Worms or segments in vomit, feces, or around the anus
Sudden changes in appetite, energy, or stool quality

When to See a Vet

If you notice any of the above symptoms, especially if they persist for more than a couple of days, it’s time to contact your veterinarian. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent complications and to stop the spread of worms to other pets—or even humans, in the case of zoonotic parasites like roundworms and hookworms.

Seek veterinary care immediately if:

Your dog has bloody diarrhea or vomit
You see live worms in their stool or vomit
They become lethargic or unresponsive
There's significant weight loss or anemia

Final Thoughts

Dogs can develop worms which can lead to a variety of health problems ranging from mild discomfort to severe illness. By being aware of the symptoms of worms in dogs and how to recognize if your dog has worms, you can act early and maintain your pet's well-being.

Prevention is key—through routine deworming, regular checkups at the vet, and proper hygiene practices. Always seek the advice of your vet if you have questions or suspect your dog has worms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the first signs that my dog has worms?

Common early signs include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, a pot-bellied appearance (especially in puppies), dull coat, and scooting. Behavioral changes like lethargy or increased appetite may also occur.

2. Can I see worms in my dog’s stool?

Yes, you may see whole worms or segments (like grains of rice) in your dog’s feces or around their anus, especially with roundworms or tapeworms.

3. How do vets diagnose worms in dogs?

Vets typically perform a fecal exam under a microscope to detect worm eggs. For heartworms, a blood test is required.

4. Are worms in dogs contagious to humans?

Yes, some worms—like roundworms and hookworms—are zoonotic and can be transmitted to humans, especially children. Practicing good hygiene is essential.

5. Can indoor dogs get worms?

Yes, indoor dogs can still get worms through contaminated objects, insects like fleas, or by coming into contact with infected feces brought indoors on shoes or clothing.

6. How often should I deworm my dog?

Puppies should be dewormed every 2–4 weeks starting at 2 weeks of age. Adult dogs should be dewormed every 3–6 months, depending on lifestyle and risk factors.

7. What does tapeworm look like in dog poop?

Tapeworms appear as small, white, rice-like segments either in the stool or stuck around the dog’s anus.

8. Can I treat my dog for worms without going to the vet?

While over-the-counter dewormers exist, it's best to consult a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. Some worms require specific medications, especially heartworms.

9. What should I do if I find worms in my dog’s vomit or stool?

Contact your veterinarian immediately. Your dog will likely need deworming medication and possibly a follow-up fecal test to ensure all parasites are cleared.

10. How can I prevent worms in my dog?

Practice regular deworming, flea control, avoid feeding raw meat, keep your dog’s environment clean, and maintain routine veterinary checkups.

About SniffnTail

SniffnTail is your go-to destination for everything pets. From helpful advice, tips, and insights to thoughtfully selected products and resources, we’re here to support pet owners at every stage of their journey. Whether you're caring for a playful pup, a wise old cat, or anything in between, SniffnTail offers tools and knowledge to make pet parenting easier and more joyful.

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