Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My dog threw up maggot-like worms but seems fine. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rottweiler | Female | spayed | 140 lbs

My dog threw up these worms that look like maggots and then she coughed up about 2 more. Seems like she is acting fine she hasn't threw up anymore since

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on August 16th, 2017

Oh no, poor Vegas! Worms that resemble maggots, or grains of rice, are most commonly tapeworm segments. These can be acquired by ingesting either rodents or fleas infected with tapeworms. It would be ideal to take Vegas to her vet for an exam and stool sample analysis to more precisely determine the cause of these worms. However, since she is acting normally and has not had further vomiting, you can consider deworming her with over the counter deworming medication containing praziquantel. Also be sure that she is receiving a high quality flea preventative regularly, such as Nexgard, Bravecto, or K9 Advantix II. I hope this helps and that all goes well!

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored