According to the Dog Worms Guide, there are five types of worms that affect dogs: roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, whipworms and heartworms. Worms spread mainly through infested feces and other objects that the dog eats. Many worms exist in dogs̵7; tissue naturally and only become problems if the dog's immune system is compromised.
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Roundworms
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Roundworms are the most common type of canine worms. A roundworm-infested dog generally shows symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. The worms themselves are tan or white, measure from 2-4 inches long, and are tapered at one end. Puppies are particularly susceptible to roundworms if their mother has them. Roundworms transfer from mother to pup during pregnancy, or through her milk. Deworming puppies prevents roundworms from developing in their bodies.
Tapeworms
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Infected fleas carry tapeworms, and a dog that eats one inherits the problem. Tapeworms live in the dog̵7;s small intestine, taking nutrients before the dog can digest them. Tapeworms are capable of laying thousands of eggs and grow up to 15 feet in length. Treatment includes medication, and dogs generally do not suffer because of a tapeworm. However, tapeworms are transmittable between dogs and humans, and the worm is often fatal if left untreated in humans.
Hookworms
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Hookworms cause weight loss, black stools, anemia, weakness and sometimes death. Puppies are more prone to developing hookworms because their immune systems are not fully developed. Puppies often die within 2-3 weeks of infestation if left untreated. Dogs can pass on hookworms to humans, but the worms are not meant for human infestation so they do not develop into adults. Monthly heartworm preventatives also work on hookworms.
Whipworms
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Whipworms reside in dogs̵7; cecums and colons and can cause upset stomachs, colic and diarrhea. The worms move from the dog̵7;s colon into its stool after three months. The parasite spreads to other animals through the infected stool. A veterinarian usually carries out the treatment, which consists of medication every 3 weeks for up to 3 months until all the worms are dead.
Heartworms
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Heartworms spread between dogs through bites from infected mosquitoes. A blood test diagnoses the worm, which travels to the dog̵7;s heart and multiplies, often clogging the heart and lungs. Heartworms are fatal if left untreated. Treatment by a veterinarian consists of twice-daily injections for 2 days. Most vets̵7; offices sell heartworm preventative medications with a prescription. When given to a dog monthly, they can stop the dog from picking up the worms.
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