Tapeworm in Dogs

What Are Tapeworms & How Do They Affect Dogs?

Tapeworms are a type of intestinal parasite that can affect dogs of all ages. They are long, flat worms made up of multiple segments, and they attach themselves to the lining of your dog’s small intestine using tiny hook-like structures. While some dogs may show few or no signs of illness, more severe infestations can cause discomfort and impact your pet’s overall health.

Symptoms of Tapeworm in Dogs

One of the most common and visible signs of a tapeworm infection is the appearance of small, white, rice-like segments in your dog’s faeces or around their anus. These segments are part of the worm and contain eggs. Other possible symptoms include: 

• Scooting: Dragging their bottom along the ground, usually due to irritation around the anal area.

• Excessive licking: Repeated licking or biting around the anus.

• Visible worm segments: Small white pieces that may be seen moving around the anus or in fresh faeces.

• Occasional vomiting: In some cases, dogs may vomit up segments of the tapeworm.

• Weight changes: A heavy infestation may cause weight loss, even if your dog’s appetite increases.

• Dull coat condition: Severe or ongoing infections can affect your dog’s general health, leading to a lacklustre coat.

If your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, it is important to seek veterinary advice promptly. At Gower Vets Swansea, our team can confirm whether your dog has tapeworm and provide the right treatment to quickly clear the infection and restore their wellbeing. So get in touch today to get started.

How Do Dogs Get Tapeworms?

The most common way dogs pick up tapeworms is through fleas. Fleas can carry tapeworm larvae, and when a dog chews, bites, or licks at itchy skin and accidentally swallows an infected flea, the larvae enter the digestive system. Once inside, they mature into adult tapeworms that attach to the lining of the intestine.

Tapeworms are not usually passed directly from one dog to another. Instead, they require what is known as an intermediate host. In most cases this is a flea, but dogs may also become infected if they scavenge or hunt small animals such as rabbits or rodents that carry the parasite.

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Preventing Tapeworm in Dogs

The best way to protect your dog from tapeworm is through a combined approach of flea prevention, worming treatments, and good management habits:

• Regular Flea Control
  Because fleas are the main carriers of tapeworm, consistent flea prevention is essential. Your vet can advise you on the most effective products for your dog, taking into account their lifestyle and environment.
• Routine Worming Treatments
  Veterinary-prescribed worming medication is highly effective against tapeworms. Broad-spectrum wormers, given at regular intervals, ensure that your dog stays protected against intestinal parasites.
• Limiting Hunting and Scavenging
  Discouraging your dog from catching or eating small wild animals such as rabbits and rodents helps reduce the risk of tapeworm infection.
• Good Hygiene Practices
  Always clean up after your dog promptly to prevent worm eggs and segments being left in the environment. While tapeworms are not directly spread from one dog to another, this helps maintain good hygiene and reduces exposure risks.

Treating Tapeworm in Dogs

If you suspect your dog may have a tapeworm, it is important to contact your veterinarian promptly. Your vet will perform a thorough physical examination and may request a faecal sample to confirm the presence of tapeworms.

Once a tapeworm infection is identified or suspected, your veterinarian will prescribe an appropriate deworming treatment to remove the parasites. They will also guide you in setting up a preventative worming schedule to reduce the risk of future infections. Regular worming and flea control are key steps in keeping your dog free from tapeworms.

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FAQs on Tapeworm in Dogs

Can dogs get tapeworms in the UK?
Yes, tapeworms are a common intestinal parasite in dogs throughout the UK.

How common are tapeworms in dogs?
Tapeworm infections are relatively common, especially in dogs that are not on regular flea or worming preventative treatments, or those that have exposure to fleas or prey animals such as rabbits or rodents.

Can you see tapeworms in dog poo?
Yes, one of the most noticeable signs of tapeworm infection is the presence of small, white, rice-like segments in your dog’s faeces or around the anal area. These segments may sometimes be mobile and contain tapeworm eggs.

Can humans get a tapeworm from dogs?
While rare, certain types of tapeworms that infect dogs can potentially be transmitted to humans. This usually occurs through accidental ingestion of infected flea larvae or by contact with tapeworm eggs present in dog faeces. Good hygiene and regular parasite prevention greatly reduce this risk.