Canine roundworm infection is caused by Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina, intestinal worms especially common in puppies. Puppies are often infected before birth or through nursing, making early deworming essential. Heavy infections cause a pot-bellied appearance, poor growth, vomiting, and diarrhea. Toxocara is zoonotic and can cause larva migrans in people, so good hygiene matters.
Roundworms are among the most common intestinal parasites of dogs, particularly puppies, caused chiefly by Toxocara canis.
Dogs are infected by ingesting eggs from the environment, eating infected prey, or, for puppies, through the placenta and mother's milk.
Many adult dogs show no signs. Puppies may have a pot-bellied look, poor growth, dull coat, vomiting, and diarrhea, sometimes passing spaghetti-like worms.
Microscopic fecal flotation detects the characteristic eggs. Adult worms may be seen in vomit or stool.
Routine deworming with products such as pyrantel or fenbendazole clears infection; puppies need repeated treatment on a schedule.
Scheduled puppy deworming, year-round parasite control, prompt feces removal, and treating nursing dams reduce egg contamination and zoonotic risk.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.
