One of the most common health issues for dogs is worms. Fortunately though, they are typically very treatable. Almost all dogs will end up getting some type of worms at some point, it’s more common than you may think! As long as they are treated as soon as you find out they have them. There are 4 different types of worms your dog could have, here are some things to look out for.
1. Noticeable worms in fur or feces
Starting with probably the most obvious one. If you see worms in your dog’s fur, feces, or around it’s rectum, they probably have worms!
2. Dragging their butt on the ground
If your puppy is dragging their butt on the ground it could just be an itch. Or they could have skin irritation from worms. If it is something you dog frequently does definitely keep an eye on it.
3. Excessive licking or biting
All dogs do this so you’ll need to pay more attention. Watch to see if your dog is licking or biting themselves more than usual.
4. Bloated stomach
If you pick up your dog or are petting them and notice that their belly seems bloated, it could mean they have worms. This is one of the more serious symptoms because it could be worse than worms, definitely take you dog to the vet if this is something you notice.
5. Vomiting
Some dogs occasionally throw up, some don’t. If it seems like they are throwing up more than usual it could mean they have worms. If you’re brave enough to look through the vomit, you may be able to see some worms or pieces of worms.
6. Diarrhea
You should already be keeping an eye on your dog’s fecal matter if you believe they have worms. Regularly having diarrhea when they go out to the bathroom could be a symptom of them having worms. Keep a look out for blood as well.
7. Weight loss
Your dog unexpectedly losing weight could be a symptom of them having worms. If there are worms inside of your dog, they are taking nutrition from your them.
8. Outdoors
Is your dog outside a lot? That is how most dogs get worms, usually from the dirt. Hunting dogs are also prone to getting worms when they are outside hunting with you since they are around other wild animals.
9. Fleas
Flees can actually carry worms. Dogs who have recently had fleas may end up with worms even after they are gone.
10. Loss of energy
If your dog has noticeably less energy or is fatigued it could be because the worms are taking nutrition from them, as I mentioned earlier.
11. Coughing
Coughing more than usual can mean that your dog has had worms for a while now and it needs to be treated soon. It is an indication that if your dog has worms, they may have started to move into their lungs.
12. Dull fur or hair
When your dog isn’t healthy their coat will start to not look nice. It should look shiny and full rather than dull.
How to treat worms in dogs
If you think your dog has worms, you’re probably wondering about treatment or what you should do next. The first think would be to take your dog to the vet with a stool sample. They will be able to tell you with certainty if your dog has worms and what needs to be done to treat it. Although I’d strongly suggest that you get your veterinarian’s, if you want to try to treat it yourself there are plenty of dewormers available on Amazon. My favorite is Sentry Worm X Plus 7 Way DeWormer.
