It's often hard to quickly understand that your dog has worms - most people notice it later, when the signs become more obvious.
Meanwhile, worms can affect your pet's health a lot, and also cause plenty of issues.
Here's how you can detect dog worms quickly.
Check Their Poop
Pay attention to your dog's poop. If you see small, rice-like things in it or long, stringy, or spaghetti-like things, those could be worms.
Worm segments or whole worms can sometimes be visible in their feces.
Notice Changes in Eating Habits
If your dog suddenly loses their appetite or starts eating a lot more without gaining weight, it could be a sign of worms.
Worms can steal the nutrition your dog needs.
Watch for Weight Loss
If your dog is losing weight despite eating normally, worms might be the cause.
Worms can make your dog thinner by taking away nutrients from their food.
Check for Vomiting or Diarrhea
Frequent vomiting and diarrhea, especially if it's happening for a while, could be a sign of worms. Worms can irritate your dog's stomach and intestines.
Look for a Bloated Belly
If your dog's belly looks swollen or bloated, it could be due to worms. Some worms can cause this swelling.
Notice Scooting or Dragging
If your dog scoots their bottom along the ground more than usual, it might be because they are trying to relieve the itchiness caused by worms near their rear end.
Check Their Coat
A dull, unhealthy-looking coat can also be a sign. Worms can make dogs less healthy overall, and this can show in their fur.
Regular Vet Checkups
It's a good idea to take your dog for regular checkups with the vet. Vets can do tests to check for worms, even if there are no obvious signs.
Conclusion
If you notice these signs or suspect your dog has worms, it's best to consult your vet.
They can recommend the right treatment to help your furry friend get better.
