My 8-week Shih Tzu puppy has a big belly, pants. Could it be worms?

Question

I just bought a 8 weeks old Shih Tzu puppy, and his body is very disproportionate. His lower body is way bigger than the top half. I believe his stomach is quite big for his size. Like he is extremely fool all the time. The family that I bought him from could have been over feeding? But he also pants a-lot, like he is exhausted or dehydrated. I am getting a little worried about his panting could be  a reaction from the bloating, or maybe worms? I honestly don't know, help. Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 7 days old | 6 lbs

Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

Very commonly worm infestation (gastrointestinal parasites) can affect puppies and cause the signs you are describing. Abdominal swelling is caused by the presence of the parasites, which can also cause malabsorption of nutrients, discomfort and possibly dehydration, especially if you notice soft feces/diarrhoea. A picture of him would definitively help to determine more specifically the underlying problem, but generally speaking a check up would be required for parasite treatment. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

My 8-week Shih Tzu puppy has a big belly, pants. Could it be worms?

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