Roundworms are usually 2 - 4 inches long, tan or white \u201cspaghetti-like\u201d creatures with tapered ends. They are the most common type of worm to infect pets, and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and a generally unhealthy appearance. Dogs with heavy infestations might vomit or pass whole worms in their stools. Worms can even cause intestinal blockages.<\/p>\n
Roundworm facts:<\/p>\n
Hookworms are blood-sucking intestinal parasites that can cause anemia and even death in puppies and adult dogs. Hookworms are usually not passed in the stool and therefore they are difficult to diagnose without a fecal test from your veterinarian. The severity of hookworm effects depends on the number of worms, as well as your dog\u2019s overall health and age.<\/p>\n
Hookworm facts:<\/p>\n
Tapeworm segments are \u00bc - \u00bd inches long, white, and are usually seen moving in the dog\u2019s fur or stool. When dried, these segments will appear like a grain of uncooked rice or a sesame seed and are often found in the dog\u2019s bedding. Tapeworms live in the small intestine and steal the nutrients from the food your dog eats.<\/p>\n
Tapeworm facts:<\/p>\n
Like hookworms, whipworms bury their heads into your dog\u2019s intestines and suck blood. Occasionally, severe infections can develop and lead to diarrhea, weight loss, and blood loss.<\/p>\n
Whipworm facts:<\/p>\n
Coccidia are not worms but a single-cell microscopic organism. This organism can cause watery diarrhea and vomiting in young pets. In some cases, the diarrhea can be severe enough to be life threatening.<\/p>\n