The different types of worms are:
- roundworms
- hookworms
- tapeworms
- whipworms
- heartworms
Roundworms are the most typical type of worms, and majority of this article is focused on roundworm symptoms. Hookworms and heartworms are the most lethal worms, with the probability of death. Do take note that some species of worms, including roundworms and hookworms, can even be spread to humans.
General symptoms of worm infection
- dull coat
- weight loss
- loss of appetite
- coughing
- lethargy
- diarrhoea
- vomiting
Healthy dogs have bright and shiny fur so it is reasonably obvious when your dogs fur coat is dull. If your dog experiences weight loss, ensure that you haven’t modified the dog’s diet or started on different brand of dog food. Weight loss is one of the more tell tale symptoms of dog worms.
Loss of appetite is also very obvious, as a dog’s food is typically their main attraction of the day. Coughing is also simple to diagnose.
Lethargy is a common symptom of dog disease. When a dog does not bug you to go on walks, or isn’t as energetic as normal, it is a signal that something could be wrong.
Finally, diarrhoea and vomiting. These two symptoms are at the more serious end of the scale, and are very tell tale. However, just like the others, they can be symptoms of myriads of different dog diseases.
Only when you identify a combination of the above mentioned symptoms that you can be sure that they are symptoms of dog worms. If you have reason to believe that the dog has worms, try looking through their stools. If you see circle shaped holes, or tunnels that appear to be made by worms, consult your vet. They can describe to you best what need to be done, although worms is a small problems in dogs. However in worst cases, it can be very harmful and even lead to death.
