What do roundworm eggs look like

Roundworms can also develop in a puppy after it is born when the puppy eats larvated eggs from the environment or drinks worm larvae young worms in the mother's milk. Another way roundworms are passed is when roundworm larvae are present in the tissues of a mouse or another small mammal and the puppy eats the animal. Adult roundworms live in the affected dog's intestines. Many dogs do not have signs of infection; however, dogs with major roundworm infections, especially puppies, show diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, dull hair, and a potbellied appearance.

The dog may cough if the roundworms move into the lungs. You may notice the adult roundworms in your dog's feces or vomit. They will appear white or light brown in color and may be several inches long. Because roundworms can enter your dog's body in many different ways, it is essential to keep your dog's living area clean, remove feces regularly, and, if possible, prevent your dog from eating wild animals that may carry roundworms.

To get rid of roundworms that are passed from the mother dog, puppies should be treated at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks of age and then receive a preventive treatment monthly. Fecal stool examinations should be conducted 2 to 4 times during the first year of life and 1 or 2 times each year in adults. Nursing mothers should be kept on monthly preventive and treated along with their puppies to decrease the risk of transmission.

Many heartworm preventives also control roundworms. Older children may have no symptoms. A younger child may be more likely to have symptoms. This is because their intestines are narrower and the worms have less room. Symptoms may include:. The symptoms of roundworm infection can seem like other health conditions. Have your child see his or her healthcare provider for a diagnosis. He or she will give your child a physical exam.

Your child may also have a stool sample test. In most cases, roundworms can be easily treated by taking a medicine that kills the worms in about 3 days. Medicines often used in the U. In rare cases, your child may need surgery to treat a severe intestinal blockage caused by roundworms. After treatment, infection can happen again. This is common in areas where roundworm infection is widespread.

To prevent a roundworm infection:. Be aware of the risk when traveling in developing countries where soil may be contaminated by feces. Wash your hands and teach your children to wash their hands with soap and water after being outside, before handling food, and after going to the bathroom.

Significant health problems can result if a person accidentally ingests the eggs of canine roundworms, such if a child gets dirt in her mouth. In humans the eggs can turn into larvae that become encysted in various organs of the body, which can sometimes cause serious disease. Because of the risk of transmission to humans, it is recommended that dogs receive treatment and preventative for roundworm and that dog stools in yards, parks, playgrounds, and other outdoor areas are picked up and removed right away.

Be sure to talk with your vet for expert information on roundworms and any concerns you may have regarding the health and well-being of your puppy or dog. Note: This article is designed to help inform you about roundworms in dogs and is not meant to take the place of a veterinary diagnosis or consultation. If you think your dog might have roundworms or any parasite, contact your vet right away to set up an appointment for an examination and to ensure that your dog receives the safest and most effective treatment.

Compare Breeds Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side. Dog Name Finder Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration. Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid.

Additional Resources AKC. Clubs Offering: Training Classes. Roundworms in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention. By Arliss Paddock Nov 26, 4 Minutes. Nov 26, 4 Minutes. What are roundworms? Roundworms are extremely common parasites in dogs. Almost all dogs have roundworms at some point in their lives—most often in puppyhood. There are two main species of roundworms affecting dogs: Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonine. Toxocara canis causes more serious disease and can be transmitted to humans.