Roundworms and tapeworms are two of the most common internal parasites in dogs. They both make themselves at home in a dog's intestines and can live there for years, undetected. Read on to find out where these worms come from, how to recognize them and what to do about them.
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Definition
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Both roundworms and tapeworms are common parasites which can live in a dog's intestines. Roundworms are between 3 and 7 inches long and resemble spaghetti. Tapeworms are flat, ribbon-like and up to 6 inches long. A tapeworm is divided into individual segments about the size of a grain of rice. Each segment contains its own independent digestive and reproductive systems.
Contracting
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Roundworms are the most common parasite found in dogs. Puppies can be born with roundworms inherited from their mother in the womb. Puppies can also ingest roundworms through their mother's milk. Roundworms can enter a dog's body when it eats wild animals or feces infested with roundworms. Even while grooming, a dog can infect itself if it has been on soil containing roundworm eggs. Dogs get tapeworms by ingesting fleas or eating small animals which contain tapeworm eggs.
Symptoms
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Many dogs do not show symptoms of roundworms or tapeworms. However, dogs with serious roundworm infections, especially puppies, will develop a distended belly. Other signs to watch out for include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. You may notice the adult roundworms in your dog's feces or vomit. If roundworms have moved into the dog's lungs, the dog may develop a cough. Tapeworm segments can sometimes be spotted on a dog's rear end or in its feces. They will look like grains of white rice.
Prevention
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To reduce the chances of roundworm or tapeworm infestation, keep your dog's living area clean. Remove feces regularly. Never allow your dog to eat wild animals that may carry roundworms. Treat for fleas vigilantly to avoid tapeworms. Dogs should have a fecal exam each year to test for parasites. High risk dogs, such as show dogs, hunting dogs and dogs in crowded urban environments, should be tested more often.
Treatment
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There are many prescription and over-the-counter deworming products available for worms. Consult your veterinarian for the best choice for you and your pet. Roundworm treatments anesthetize the worms, causing them to release their grip on the dog's intestines. They are then passed out of the dog's body still alive. Because they cannot survive on the outside, they will soon die. A follow-up deworming is usually given several weeks after the first. Many heartworm medications also prevent roundworms. Tapeworms are easily eliminated with medication that can be given orally or injected. The treatment kills the tapeworm which is then digested with the dog's food. You will not see the tapeworms come out of your dog alive.
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