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How can I identify dog worm eggs in my dog's feces with a microscope?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 3 years and 10 months old | 24 lbs

I have a microscope, and I want to check my dog for worms. Wich I think my dog might have acquired! What would I be looking for when I examine his feces?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Mirissa Duncil, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 11th, 2017

Hi there. Most of our fecal exams require specific tests that will separate our parasite eggs from the feces. Typically I do what's called a fecal float-as most people do. Under the microscope you would be looking for parasite eggs-but there are various forms and you have to know what you're looking for. If you look it up, there are diagrams on certain types of eggs online-but I always recommend a fecal be done by your doctor in case any are missed at home.

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    You cannot identify worms by looking at the feces under a microscope, identification of worms is done by looking for the worms egg and according to the egg's shape and form the type of worm can be identify, it is called a flotation method and it requires much more equipment than a microscope (special flotation solution, a centrifuge and other tools).

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