Have you noticed your dog rubbing its rear end on the floor or dragging it around on the carpet? Worms could be the reason for this seemingly bizarre behavior. Tapeworm infection, also known as Dipylidium caninum, is a common parasitic infection affecting puppies and adult dogs.
These segmented parasites are long and flat – each segment resembling a grain of rice. Once inside an animal, they attach themselves to the wall of the small intestine. Front segments form the head of the work, and end segments carry egg sacs that migrate to the anal region.
No, it’s not a very glamorous subject, and somewhat gross. But worms are a serious issue in dogs that every pet parent should be aware of.
Fleas carry tapeworms, and if your canine companion happens to swallow one of these infected fleas, it’s game on. The other way a dog could develop tapeworms is by eating something an infected animal.
Clinical signs of tapeworms in puppies and dogs
Here are some clinical signs of tapeworm infection in puppies and dogs:
- Presence of tapeworm segments: The most common sign of tapeworm infection is the presence of tapeworm segments or proglottids in the dog’s feces or around its anus. These rice-like segments are small, flat, and white and can often be seen moving in the stool or around the dog’s anus.
- Anal itching or irritation: Dogs with a tapeworm infection may experience itching and irritation around their anus, which can cause them to rub or scoot on the ground.
- Poor coat condition: Tapeworm infection can cause a dog’s coat to become dull, dry, and unkempt due to malnutrition or dehydration caused by the parasites.
- Weight loss: In severe cases of tapeworm infection, dogs may experience weight loss or stunted growth as the parasites compete with the host for nutrients.
- Abdominal discomfort: Dogs may experience abdominal discomfort and bloating due to tapeworms in their intestines.
- Diarrhea and vomiting: Infected dogs may experience vomiting and diarrhea.
How do dogs become infected with tapeworms?
As mentioned earlier, dogs become infected with tapeworms by ingesting tapeworm eggs or larvae. There are two common ways dogs can ingest larvae.
- Ingesting infected fleas: Tapeworm larvae are sometimes eaten by dogs when they groom themselves and accidentally swallow infected fleas. Dogs that roam or are in contact with other animals, especially wild animals, are at higher risk of flea infestation.
- Eating infected animals: Dogs that hunt or scavenge may eat infected rodents, rabbits, or other small mammals. When they do, they can ingest tapeworms living inside these animals.
Once the dog ingests eggs or larvae, tapeworms develop and mature in the dog’s intestines, attaching themselves to the intestinal lining and feeding on the dog’s nutrients.
Adult tapeworms can grow up to several feet long and produce egg-filled segments that are shed (most types of worms) in the dog’s feces, perpetuating the cycle of infection.
How is tapeworm diagnosed?
The most common way tapeworms are discovered is by a fecal examination. If you visit your vet, take a stool sample with you so that it can be examined under a microscope. In some cases, tapeworms may not be detected in the stool sample, and additional diagnostic tests may be required.
Not all types of tapeworms shed their eggs in the dog’s stool, so a negative fecal examination does not necessarily rule out tapeworms. Your vet will also look for any symptoms of tapeworm infestation in your dog, such as weight loss, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, and scooting or licking around the anal area. If tapeworms are suspected but not found in the fecal examination, the vet may recommend other diagnostic tests, such as blood tests or imaging studies.
What to do if my dog has tapeworms?
Depending on the severity of the infection, there are some natural tapeworm remedies that you can try at home. If the infection does clear up within a few days of trying these remedies, seek care from your vet.
Pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitacin, an amino acid that paralyzes worms to move them through the digestive tract. Use only raw, organic pumpkin seeds – not salted seeds. To administer, grind the seeds and give your pup ¼ teaspoon for every 10 pounds of weight twice a day. This method is safe for all dogs, including puppies and pregnant dogs. Watch for parasites to be gone from feces within 24 hours.
Turmeric. This ancient wonder spice has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a true superfood for dogs and humans. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is a powerhouse, a natural dewormer. To administer, mix with some organic coconut oil and form a paste. Give small dogs ¼ teaspoon daily, medium dogs ½ teaspoon, and large dogs ¾ teaspoon.
Apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is a natural parasitic. Use organic only, with the mother to help balance your dog’s pH levels in the digestive tract. Add ¼ teaspoon for small dogs and ½ for medium to large dogs to drinking water daily. Hint: Mix one part apple cider vinegar to four parts water and put in a spray bottle. Spritz your do’s fur and run through with a brush every couple of weeks during active flea season to keep your furry friend flea free!
Conventional treatment usually involves administering an anti-parasitic medication that is effective against tapeworms. The medication can be given orally or by injection, depending on the severity of the infestation.
It’s important to monitor your dog’s progress and follow up with your veterinarian as directed. A repeat fecal examination may be necessary to ensure that the tapeworms have been eliminated.
Preventing future tapeworm infections
Tapeworm infections is not fun for dogs or pet parents. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent infestations.
- Regular flea control: Since tapeworms are transmitted through infected fleas, keeping your dog flea free is essential. Use regular flea control for your pup and your yard.
- Good hygiene. Practice good hygiene to prevent re-infestation. This may include regularly cleaning your dog’s living area and bedding, picking up feces promptly, and keeping your dog away from areas where tapeworm-carrying fleas may be present.
- Watch what your dog eats. Don’t let your pup eat dead or alive rodents as they are top carriers or fleas which could be infested with tapeworms.
- Feed raw carrots. Adding fresh, grated carrots to your dog’s diet is a great way to keep the digestive system healthy. Grated carrot pieces scrape the intestinal walls and help move along any parasites living there.
- Regular deworming: Have your dog dewormed regularly, as recommended by your veterinarian. This is especially important if your dog spends time around other dogs, goes to the dog park, or has access to areas with high wildlife activity.
- Monitor your dog’s behavior: If your dog shows signs of tapeworm infection, such as scooting its rear end across the ground or passing rice-like segments in its feces, seek care immediately.
How long do tapeworms stay alive?
The lifespan of a tapeworm can vary depending on the species and other factors, such as the dog’s overall health and immune system. In general, tapeworms can survive and continue to grow inside a dog’s intestines for several months to years if left untreated.
Can humans get tapeworms from dogs?
Yes, humans can get tapeworms from dogs, although it is not common
If a human accidentally ingests a flea infected with the Dipylidium caninum tapeworm larvae, they can become infected with the tapeworm. This is more likely to happen in children, who may accidentally swallow fleas while playing with or petting their dogs.
If you suspect that you or someone in your family may have a tapeworm infection, it is important to see a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Treatment typically involves medication to kill the tapeworm and measures to prevent re-infection.
Protecting your dog from tapeworms is an absolute must. Worms will make your furry friend quite uncomfortable at best, and intense worm infections in puppies can even result in death. Prevention, including good hygiene, offers the best course of action to keep your furry friend healthy and worm free!
