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Common Ways Dogs Get Worms and How to Protect Them


FurryFunTime Staff
Updated: Dec 31, 2024

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Parasitic worms can pose a major health risk to dogs, using their bodies as hosts for food, shelter, and reproduction. It’s common for dog owners to feel confused or alarmed when their healthy pets suddenly show signs of worm infestations, even in spotless homes. However, dogs and puppies can pick up worms in several ways, some of which are surprising. Puppies can even be infected with worms before they’re born. Let’s dive into the many ways dogs can get worms and how to keep them safe.

01.Dog Feces
01.Dog Feces
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Dogs often pick up worms by sniffing or investigating other dogs’ feces. Many species of worms rely on feces to complete their life cycle. Adult worms lay eggs in a dog’s intestines, which are expelled along with feces. These eggs hatch into tiny larvae that linger in the feces or surrounding soil. When another dog sniffs or accidentally ingests the larvae, the infection begins. This is why keeping outdoor areas clean and preventing your dog from investigating unknown feces is so important.

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02.Other Animals
02.Other Animals
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Worms like roundworms can also infect dogs through contact with other animals. Dogs that hunt small animals such as mice or rodents are especially at risk. Even if your dog doesn’t consume the prey, merely sniffing or coming into contact with the remains of an infected animal can be enough to spread the larvae. This is a common route of infection in curious or adventurous dogs, highlighting the need to supervise outdoor activities.

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03.Mosquitoes
03.Mosquitoes
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Mosquitoes are carriers of heartworms, one of the most dangerous parasites for dogs. A single bite from an infected mosquito can introduce heartworm larvae into your dog’s system, where they grow and migrate to the heart and lungs. Left untreated, heartworm infestations can be fatal. Fortunately, there are preventive medications available to protect your pet, especially in areas where mosquitoes are prevalent. Regular use of these medications can save your dog from life-threatening complications.

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04.Pregnancy
04.Pregnancy
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Pregnant dogs infected with worms can pass the parasites to their puppies before they’re even born. Some worm species, like roundworms, can remain dormant in a dog’s muscles for years. During pregnancy, these dormant worms can reactivate, causing a new infection that is passed to the developing puppies. For this reason, veterinarians recommend worming both pregnant dogs and their puppies as part of a regular care routine to ensure they start life healthy.

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05.Nursing Puppies
05.Nursing Puppies
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Even if puppies escape infection in the womb, they can still ingest worms through their mother’s milk. When a mother dog is infected, larvae or adult worms can transfer to her puppies during nursing. Once inside the puppies’ digestive systems, the worms quickly multiply and may even begin producing eggs that can reinfect their surroundings.

Keeping bedding clean and treating both the mother and her puppies for worms is crucial to preventing the spread.

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06.Skin Exposure
06.Skin Exposure
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While most worms enter through ingestion, hookworms are an exception. These parasites can penetrate a dog’s skin, especially if the dog lies on contaminated soil or feces. Hookworm larvae can survive in the environment for weeks or even months, making them a persistent threat, particularly in warm, humid climates. Dogs that frequently explore or rest in such areas are more vulnerable, emphasizing the importance of regular deworming and environmental cleanliness.

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07.Undercooked Pork
07.Undercooked Pork
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Tapeworms are commonly found in undercooked or raw pork. These dormant worms are usually killed during the cooking process, but consuming raw or spoiled pork can expose dogs to tapeworms. While it might seem natural for dogs to eat raw meat, as wild canines do, it carries significant risks, including parasitic infections. Always ensure any pork products you feed your dog are thoroughly cooked to eliminate potential dangers.

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08.Fleas
08.Fleas
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Fleas are another common carrier of worms, particularly tapeworms. When a flea ingests worm larvae from an infected dog or its environment, the larvae remain dormant within the flea’s body. If your dog swallows an infected flea while biting at their fur, the larvae are released into their system. Regular flea prevention treatments can significantly reduce the risk of this transmission route and keep your dog healthier overall.

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09.Grooming
09.Grooming
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Dogs are natural groomers, and this instinct can sometimes lead to infection. While licking their paws or fur, dogs may inadvertently ingest worm eggs or larvae picked up from the soil or other surfaces. Whipworms, in particular, are a risk, as their eggs can survive in the environment for almost a year. Keeping your dog’s living space clean and discouraging excessive outdoor digging or rolling can help reduce exposure.

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10.Prevention
10.Prevention
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Preventing worms is easier than treating them, but it requires consistent effort. Parasites are adept at finding hosts, making it essential to use preventive measures such as deworming medications and regular veterinary check-ups.

Heartworm prevention, for instance, is a critical part of any dog’s care plan, especially in areas where mosquitoes are prevalent. Your veterinarian can recommend the most effective treatments and prevention strategies for your dog based on their lifestyle and location.

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11.Environmental Exposure
11.Environmental Exposure
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Dogs love rolling in the grass, digging in the dirt, and exploring their surroundings, but these activities can expose them to parasitic worms. Hookworm and roundworm eggs are especially resilient, surviving in soil for months or even years. Simply sniffing, digging, or walking through contaminated areas can introduce these parasites into your dog’s system. Regular deworming and careful monitoring of your dog’s environment are key to minimizing risks.

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12.Hunting and Scavenging Behavior
12.Hunting and Scavenging Behavior
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The prey drive in dogs is a natural behavior, but it can come with risks. Dogs that chase and consume small animals, including rodents, birds, or insects, are at risk of contracting parasites. These animals often harbor worms that can easily infect your pet. Monitoring your dog’s outdoor activities and discouraging them from eating anything they catch can help prevent these types of infestations.

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13.Worming Treatments
13.Worming Treatments
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Consistent worming treatments are vital for protecting your dog from these persistent parasites. Puppies are particularly vulnerable, as worms can severely impact their growth and health. Starting a worming regimen early and following your veterinarian’s recommendations ensures your dog is protected from the wide range of worms they may encounter. Regular treatments and check-ups can keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

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