Can worms cause intestinal blockage in dogs? The Ultimate Guide

Passed to Puppies From the Mother Dog

Puppies can get worms from their mother. This can happen a few different ways:

  • Through the placenta before puppies are born
  • Through a mother’s milk when puppies are nursing
  • How can I prevent or treat these parasites?

    Prompt treatment for worms should be started when any intestinal parasites are detected. Periodic routine deworming may be appropriate for dogs that are at risk for re-infection. Controlling fleas will prevent infection of certain types of tapeworm. You can prevent your dog from getting heartworm by using a heartworm preventive. Many heartworm preventives also protect against certain intestinal worms. Speak with your veterinarian about the most appropriate parasite control program for your dog.

    Roundworm

    One of the most common of all internal parasites is roundworms. Two species infect dogs: Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonine. They are whitish and look like short strands of spaghetti about 1 to 3 inches long.

    Cause. Roundworms can be passed to other dogs and humans, including children. They transfer from dog to dog when their eggs are shed in the waste of an infected pet and then are swallowed by another pet, perhaps after being tracked indoors on shoes or paws. After they hatch, the worms roam free within the intestines.

    Puppies are especially prone to contracting roundworms. They may even be born with parasites already infecting their bodies because their mother is infected. For newborn puppies especially, dogs must get proper veterinary care to address the possibility of roundworm infection.

    Symptoms. Roundworm infection in dogs may be indicated by:

  • Digestive upset
  • Bloated abdomen
  • Malnutrition
  • Coughing
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • (No symptoms at all)
  • Infection in puppies can be indicated by a severe upset stomach and bloated abdomen. If a puppy’s infection is composed of many roundworms, his or her growth can be stunted. If dogs and their puppies aren’t treated for roundworm infection, they could also die from severe symptoms. On the other hand, dogs may not show any symptoms.

    Treatment and prevention. Roundworm infection in dogs can be diagnosed by your veterinarian. He or she can examine a stool sample for indications of worms. If found, the vet will prescribe a deworming medication to eliminate them. Given the serious discomfort and health, risk roundworms create, please seek your veterinarian’s care immediately if signs of infection appear.

    How to Find an Obstruction in a Dog’s Intestine

    Have you been wondering what the most common symptoms of worms in dogs are? Worms in dogs are one of the most common dog health problems and, although the thought of worms in your pup may be unpleasant, it’s important to identify the symptoms of worms in dogs so you can begin treatment right away.