Worms In Dog Poop: What Should You Do?

Finding worms in your dog’s poop can raise questions, especially if you’ve never dealt with this issue before. It’s not just unpleasant, it could also indicate a deeper problem that needs attention. Intestinal worms are common in dogs, but they shouldn’t be ignored. These parasites can affect your dog’s health and may even spread to other pets or people in your home. If you’ve noticed worms in your dog’s stool, it’s important to act quickly. This blog will explain why worms show up in your dog’s waste, what types you might be seeing, and what steps to take next.

Why You’re Seeing Worms in Your Dog’s Stool

When worms appear in your dog’s poop, it usually means there’s an active parasite infection in their digestive tract. These worms feed on nutrients or blood and reproduce inside your pet’s body, eventually passing eggs or the worms themselves through the stool. In some cases, you’ll notice live or dead worms in the feces, especially after deworming treatment. Each type of worm has a unique appearance and causes different symptoms.

Common Types of Worms in Dog Poop

• Roundworms: These are long, white, and spaghetti-like. They’re one of the most common intestinal parasites in dogs, especially puppies.
• Tapeworms: These resemble small grains of rice or sesame seeds and may appear in clusters around the anus or in the stool.
• Hookworms: Rarely seen in the stool, but they feed on blood and can cause anemia. Their eggs are only visible under a microscope.
• Whipworms: Also microscopic, whipworms can cause diarrhea, weight loss, and inflammation in the colon.

If you see something moving in your dog’s stool or spot anything that looks like small white segments, it’s time to contact your veterinarian.

Symptoms That Often Accompany Worms in Dog Poop

Dogs infected with intestinal worms don’t always show signs right away, but over time, the presence of worms can start to take a toll on their health. Watch for these common symptoms that may go along with worms in the stool:

• Scooting or rubbing their rear on the ground
• A swollen or distended belly, especially in puppies
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Sudden weight loss despite a normal appetite
• Dull or thinning coat
• Fatigue or lower energy levels

If any of these symptoms are present along with visible worms in the stool, it’s especially important to schedule a veterinary visit at Veterinary Village as soon as possible.

How Dogs Get Worms in the First Place

Dogs can pick up intestinal worms in a variety of ways. Puppies can be born with them, or they may become infected shortly after birth. Adult dogs are usually exposed through their environment.

What Are Some Common Sources of Infection?

• Fecal contamination: Dogs often get infected by sniffing or ingesting contaminated soil or feces.
• Fleas: Tapeworms can be transmitted when dogs swallow infected fleas during grooming.
• Rodents and small wildlife: Some worms are transmitted when dogs eat infected prey.
• Mother to puppy transmission: Roundworms and hookworms can be passed from mother to puppies before or after birth.

Because exposure is hard to avoid, regular deworming and parasite prevention are important even for dogs that stay mostly indoors.

Why Prompt Treatment Matters

Leaving a worm infestation untreated can put your dog’s health at risk. Over time, parasites can lead to malnutrition, intestinal blockages, and serious organ damage, especially in puppies and senior dogs. Some worms, such as roundworms and hookworms, are zoonotic, meaning they can infect humans as well.

Health Risks to Humans

Children are more susceptible to zoonotic infections, particularly if they play in contaminated areas and then put their hands in their mouths. Roundworm larvae can migrate through human tissues, causing serious complications if left untreated.

Long-Term Risks for Dogs

Chronic infections can lead to long-term digestive issues, nutrient deficiencies, and damage to the intestinal lining. In severe cases, worm infestations may even be life-threatening.

What to Do If You See Worms in Your Dog’s Poop

The first step is to call your veterinarian. They may ask you to bring in a fresh stool sample to help identify the type of worm. A physical exam and fecal analysis will guide treatment.

What Not to Do

Avoid trying to treat the issue at home with over-the-counter dewormers. These products may not target the specific type of worm your dog has, and incorrect dosing could be harmful.

What to Expect at the Vet

• Fecal test: Your veterinarian will analyze a sample under a microscope.
• Treatment plan: Prescription deworming medications are tailored to the type of parasite and your dog’s size and health history.
• Follow-up: A repeat fecal test is often needed to confirm the infection has cleared.

Preventing Future Parasite Problems

Preventative care is the best way to keep intestinal worms out of your dog’s life and out of your home.

Monthly Parasite Preventatives

Many heartworm medications also protect against common intestinal worms. Administer these as directed to maintain year-round protection.

Good Hygiene Practices

• Clean up after your dog promptly
• Wash hands after handling pet waste
• Avoid letting dogs eat unknown objects outdoors
• Use flea control regularly to reduce the risk of tapeworms

Talk to your veterinarian about a deworming schedule that fits your pet’s lifestyle.

When to Call Veterinary Village

Seeing worms in dog poop is never something to ignore. Even if your dog seems fine, parasites can still be active and silently causing harm. The safest thing to do is schedule an appointment for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Our team is here to help you with expert care and up-to-date parasite protection. Call us today at (484) 820-1700 or book your visit online to get started. Let’s make sure your dog stays healthy, safe, and parasite-free.