Infection by worms is a common health problem that can affect dogs. You won’t see your dogs worm symptoms because they’re pretty easy to miss. It’s easier to spot some kinds of worms than others. For example, if your dog picks up a tapeworm, you will usually see what looks like grains of rice in his stool. Roundworms also can often be seen in a dog’s stool. Tapeworms may appear as small moving presences in a dog’s fur, or around the anal area. Heartworms, on the other hand, do not produce discernable signs of their existence until heartworm disease is at a reasonably advanced stage. Here are ten common symptoms that may mean your dog has worms.

1. Vomiting

Dogs with worms often throw up. Roundworms may sometimes show in a dog’s vomit.

2. Diarrhea

Soft stools or diarrhea may be the result of worms. As well as diarrhea, bloody stools may indicate hookworms.

3. Coughing

One advanced stage sign of heartworms in a dog is the development of a cough. Dogs with roundworms or hookworms may also cough.

4. Lethargy

Dogs that are lacking in their usual level of energy may have worms.

5. Change in Feeding Habits

A sudden change in a dog’s appetite may mean he is infected with roundworms. Food may lose its appeal, or he may suddenly be more hungry because worms are stealing nutrients from his food.

6. Loss of Weight

Rapid loss of weight may indicate the presence of tapeworms or whipworms.

7. Dull Coat

Worms may cause a dog’s coat to begin to appear dull and dried out. Other indications of worms may be hair loss and the appearance of rashes.

8. Skin Irritations

A severe infestation of worms may cause skin irritation and itching.

9. Scooting

A dog rubbing its bottom on the ground often indicates a problem with the anal glands. However, a dog with worms may scoot to relieve the itch, due to worms in the anal area.

10. Bloating

If a dog begins to have a pot belly, it may have contracted worms. If a bloated stomach applies to puppies, they will probably have picked up worms from their mother.