Can you get worms from your Dog?! 3 Steps to help stop the worm spread.
Hi Everyone!
My name is Dan, and I am a veterinarian. Today I am sharing about roundworms in dogs and how they are zoonotic. Dog roundworms can be given to people too!
Dog roundworms are intestinal parasites commonly found in dogs, especially puppies. Here’s a quick rundown of the key info:
Scientific name: Toxocara canis
Type: Nematode (roundworm)
Shape: Long, spaghetti-like worms, often visible in poop or vomit
Size: Can grow up to several inches long
How Dogs Get Them:
From infected mothers (puppies can get them in the womb or through milk)
By eating infected animals (like rodents)
From contaminated soil or feces
Dog Symptoms:
Pot-bellied appearance
Diarrhea or vomiting
Poor growth or weight loss
Dull coat
Visible worms in feces or vomit
Coughing (if larvae migrate through lungs)
Can Humans Get Them?
Yes — roundworms can cause toxocariasis in humans, especially kids. The larvae can migrate through the body and, in rare cases, affect the eyes or organs.
Dog Treatment:
Deworming meds (like pyrantel pamoate, fenbendazole, or milbemycin)
Puppies are often dewormed routinely starting at 2-3 weeks of age
Prevention Tips:
Regular vet checkups & deworming
Pick up poop promptly
Wash hands after handling pets
Don’t let dogs eat unknown stuff outdoors
Disclaimer: Always talk to your veterinarian about best practices for your family to reduce to chances of your dog spreading roundworms to humans.