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My dog has a bloated stomach and scratches his rear. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 12 days old

inflated stomach and constantly scratching behind. what should i do ?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 1st, 2019

Hello. A bloated belly & scratching the behind is generally the result of a puppy having intestinal worms. The best thing to do is have your veterinarian examine a sample of Spike's poo & dispense the correct medication, but you can safely purchase a wormer called pyrantel pamoate to give your self. Treat now & again in 2 weeks & just follow the label directions. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Jeffrey Milner

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 21st, 2017

    Unfortunately, the picture you tried to post didn't appear! Try reposting so we can better assist you. In general, try and bring a fecal sample to the veterinarian with you so that they analyze it under a microscope. They will be able to tell you which, if any, parasites are still present in the feces and what treatments, if any, will be required to get rid of them.

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    Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 1st, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach, and congratulations on your new puppy! A bloated tummy appearance in puppies can be due to a variety of reasons, including parasites like you listed, a very full stomach from eating, or another underlying issue. I would recommend having a fecal sample analyzed to determine if she does have a parasite, and if so, can start on an appropriate treatment to get rid of it. Congratulations again!

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on January 21st, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! A large belly in a puppy is not unusual and while sometimes this could be indicative of parasites, it does not have to be that necessarily. I think though that the possibility of this warrants a visit to your veterinarian to check for that. It is also a good idea to have your new pup evaluated by your veterinarian so that she can start on a preventative care plan including treating for parasites. Good luck and have a great day!

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