Roundworms in dogs are parasites that live in the intestines and eat scraps of food that have not been fully digested yet. Roundworm infections are fairly common, and most dogs will have the parasites at some point in their lives. Puppies are especially prone to picking up roundworms. This can happen if dogs eat the fecal matter of another infected animal or if they eat a small animal that has an infection.
There are actually two different types of roundworms, named Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina, and the former is more severe and may pass on to humans.
If you see concerning signs that your dog might have a parasitic infection, then you must consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and course of treatment. Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of roundworms in dogs.
Symptoms Of Roundworms In Dogs
Roundworms in dogs can bring on a number of symptoms; although, it should be noted that some infected dogs don’t show any symptoms at all.
Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Looking like they have a potbelly
- Weight Loss
- Diarrhea
- Seeming weaker than usual
- Pain in the belly
It’s also possible to notice roundworms in your dog’s feces. The parasites are often said to resemble pieces of spaghetti.
Causes Of Roundworms In Dogs
The cause of a roundworms in dogs is typically ingestion of the parasites.
In some cases a pregnant mother dog can also pass roundworms on to her puppies, either before they are born or via her milk.
Treatments For Roundworms In Dogs
If your veterinarian suspects your dog is suffering from a case of roundworms, they’ll want to take a feces sample and examine it for parasites. Once the vet confirms the diagnosis, they’ll most likely prescribe some deworming medicine.
Common drugs that work on roundworms include moxidectin, fenbendazole, and piperazine. If your vet prescribes a course of medication for your dog, it is imperative that you adhere to the recommended dosage and frequency and also complete the entire course of medicine.
On a day-to-day basis, you can lessen the chances of your dog becoming infected by teaching them to stay away from small, wild animals and cleaning up poop immediately.
Has your dog ever had a roundworm infection? How did you and your vet treat your dog? Tell us all about it in the comments below!