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My dog has worms. How did she get them and what are the causes?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I’m worried that my dog has worms. Where would she have gotten them from?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 17th, 2019

There are many different types of worms, or intestinal parasites, that can infect dogs. Common worms include roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms and whipworms. Other intestinal parasites, such as Giardia and coccidia, can also infect dogs. These [parasites are acquired by dogs](https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-tell-if-your-pet-has-worms) in a variety of different manners, such as ingesting another animal’s infected feces, through their paw pads, ingesting tapeworm-infested fleas or rodents, or through their mother’s placenta or milk. While some worms may be visible in a dog’s stool, most worms are only identified through their eggs on a microscopic fecal flotation test. If you are concerned that your dog has worms, it would be best to have a fecal sample evaluated by your veterinarian so that [proper treatment](https://www.petcoach.co/article/deworming-your-dog-what-to-expect) can be started. Not every deworming medication treats every intestinal parasite, so it is important to follow your veterinarian’s directions. Heartworm disease, however, is best prevented with prescription preventive medications. Despite being a “worm,” the disease process, prevention and treatment of heartworms is very different from intestinal parasites. ### Interceptor Plus is a trademark of Elanco or its affiliates.

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  • Image profile

    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 17th, 2019

    Intestinal parasites (often referred to as “worms”) may seem like a mere nuisance, but in reality, they can pose a variety of health problems, including anemia, dehydration, vomiting or diarrhea. Common intestinal parasites include roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms, Giardia and coccidia. Many of these intestinal parasites can be transmitted to other pets, [as well as people](https://www.petcoach.co/article/can-my-family-get-parasites-from-my-pets). Children and immunocompromised individuals are more susceptible to infection with some of these intestinal parasites than healthy adults. To avoid the complications associated with these parasites, it is best to keep your dog on a regular de-worming regimen. Many, but not all, heartworm preventives also include deworming medications used to treat many of these parasites. Since there are so many options for regular deworming protocols, it is best to discuss the best option for your dog with your veterinarian. ### Interceptor Plus is a trademark of Elanco or its affiliates.

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