Worms found in dogs

There are many types of worms that infect dogs, and some are more common and more dangerous for the dog, or for humans, than others. Most species are found in the gut or intestine, but others are found in the lungs or the main blood vessels close to the heart.

Not all species are found everywhere in Europe, so to simplify matters, we have chosen three of the most important worms to look at in detail: dog roundworm (Toxocara canis), tapeworm (Echinococcus species) and heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis). These worms must be controlled, because of the risk they pose for both canine and human health See Infected Area Map

• Roundworms
• Tapeworms
• Heartworms

Other worms that may pose a risk to your dog

Depending on the lifestyle and habits of your dog, where you live and when and where you exercise it, the following information about other worms may be important.

• Hookworms
• Whipworms
• Lungworms
• Under the skin worm
• French Heartworms

Prevention

The risk of infection from all types of worm can be minimised by:

• Feeding cooked food
• Preventing access to carcases
• Always picking up your dog’s faeces both in its own environment and in public places
• Regularly worming your dog
• Monitoring faeces for eggs as a sign of worm infection.

Tapeworm segments look like grains of rice and can be seen in the faeces or in the fur around the tail and back legs. Roundworm eggs can only be identified under the microscope at your veterinary practice. Treatment should always be discussed with your vet.