Dog Diseases: Symptoms of Worms

Intestinal worms are a common problem for dogs. They can pick them up from the soil, infected insects, and other animals. Some worms can be transmitted to humans. Worms can be hazardous to your dog's health and could be fatal if not treated promptly. It is important to be aware of potential symptoms and consult your veterinarian immediately if your dog shows signs of having worms.

  1. Weight Loss

    • Weight loss sometimes occurs when a dog is infested with worms because your dog isn't eating as much. The worms also deplete the dog's body of essential nutrients.

    Vomiting

    • Vomiting can occur in a dog with worms for several reasons. Stomach upset from the worms residing in the intestines can cause the dog to vomit. In severe cases, worms can crawl up into the dog's throat, inducing vomiting.

    Coughing and Gagging

    • Like vomiting, coughing and gagging can result from the worms crawling up into the dog's throat. Coughing can also happen when a dog is infested with heart worms. The heart worms reduce oxygen levels, causing coughing as the dog struggles for air.

    Abnormal Stool

    • There are several changes that occur within the stool when a dog has worms. The stool may be bloody or coated in mucous. Diarrhea, either constant or intermittent, may be present. Sometimes the worms can be seen in the stool.

    Lethargy

    • Loss of energy can be a sign of worms in your dog. You may notice your usually active dog does not have the enthusiasm for his daily walk or chasing his favorite ball. The lack of energy can be the result of a decreased appetite as well as nutrient depletion cased by the worms.

    Loss of Appetite

    • A dog infested with worms may lack his usual zeal for food. The dog that once raced to his bowl may need to be coaxed to come when dinner is served. Sometimes his appetite is erratic; he'll be ravenous one day and disinterested the next.

    Bloating

    • A bloated belly is often a sign of worms in puppies. Sometimes owners think the dog is eating too much and gaining weight, when in actuality the opposite is true.

    Anemia

    • Anemia is a common sign of worms in dogs. Anemia usually presents as paleness of the gums.

    Scooting on Floor

    • Kids usually find it funny when their dog scoots across the floor on his bottom, though adults are generally less amused. Scooting can be a symptom of worms; they are likely crawling around the dog's anal area, causing him to itch.