Roundworms in Dogs - Symptoms

Various worms like tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, heartworms and whipworms are common dog worms. Many animals including dogs can be infected by roundworms that are intestinal parasites. Roundworms are the most common type of worms infecting dogs. Roundworms are also known as ascarids. They are round in shape and their average length is about 2-5 inches. They live in dog's intestine and sometimes also coil up in masses leading to obstruction of this passage. Roundworms can be contacted easily and they are difficult to be controlled as they spread very easily too. The roundworms in dogs symptoms are easily visible if it is not at very minor level. So, are you wondering what are the various symptoms of roundworms in dogs? If you are suspecting roundworms in dogs, symptoms given below will help you confirm the same.

Symptoms of Roundworms in Dogs

The one of the most visible roundworms in dogs symptoms is a dull coat. A healthy dog means a shiny thick coat. So a dull coat, that is constantly being shed is one of the primary signs of roundworms in dogs. Also, you might notice infection signs like pale lips and gum. Other symptoms of worms in dogs is red, pimply, harsh and dry skin.

One of the common symptoms of roundworms in dogs is loss of appetite. They might eat a lot on some day and won't eat anything the next day. Weight loss along with a pot bellied appearance is probably one of the roundworms in dogs symptoms. You might also see them eating dirt and rubbish. Diarrhea and soft stool is a common symptom of this dog health problem. You will also notice that the urine is high colored, frequent and difficult to pass which is also the symptoms of roundworms in dogs.

One of the most prominent symptoms of roundworms in dogs is that there might be visible adult roundworms present in their feces. Dogs will suffer from bloody, irregular stools if infected by roundworms. Sometimes, the roundworms might produce eggs upon maturing in the intestines which are further excreted in the dog's stool. Dogs might also suffer from anemia, ruptured bowels and intestinal obstructions due to roundworm infection.The eggs present in the feces might spread over the floor, bedding, feeding and their coat. These might be licked off and swallowed by the same or other dogs and enter their digestive tracts and thus the cycle goes on.

Lethargy is another symptom of roundworm in dogs. You might see your dog getting weaker and lifeless. They might just sleep and most of their physical activities will reduce due to this dog illness. As they are very playful, active, always eager go for a walk, a noticeable change in these habits is possible due to roundworm infection.

Vomiting is amongst the possible symptoms of roundworms in dogs. If the larvae reach their respiratory system, they might be coughed up. Sometimes, roundworms might also be found in dog's vomit. In serious cases, symptoms like constant coughing, breathing problems and pneumonia can be noticed. Other symptoms of roundworms in dogs may include dry nose and dull, watery eyes.

Read more on worms in dogs:

• Ringworm in Dogs
• Heartworms in Dogs

There will be a noticeable change in dog health due to ringworm infection. When you observe a few of these symptoms of roundworms in dogs together, you can be sure about roundworm infection in your dog. You can confirm roundworm infection by examining their feces. It is best to visit a veterinarian after you notice some roundworms in dogs symptoms, as he will prescribe the best treatment for your dog. Vets usually do a microscopic evaluation of the dog’s stool to determine if roundworm eggs are present and accordingly treat roundworms in dogs. Remember, not to ignore roundworms, though this is a common and minor problem, in some cases it can become very serious and even lead to death.