Do Dogs Get Tapeworms?

What Are Tapeworms? 

Tapeworms are a type of parasitic flatworm that belong to the class Cestoda. They are called tapeworms because of their long, ribbon-like shape, resembling a strip of tape. Tapeworms have a unique structure consisting of multiple segments called proglottids.

As the nodule dries, it turns golden and eventually ruptures, releasing the fertilised eggs into the environment. Each proglottid contains reproductive organs, allowing tapeworms to produce thousands of eggs. The head of the tapeworm, known as the scolex, has hooks or suckers that help it attach to the intestinal lining of the host.

Sometimes they can be seen moving on the hairs around the anus or, more commonly, on the surface of freshly excreted faeces.

Tapeworm Life Cycle in Dogs

The life cycle of tapeworms in dogs follows a similar pattern to that of other tapeworms. 

The adult tapeworms reside in the small intestine of dogs. The most common types of tapeworms found in dogs are Dipylidium caninum and Taenia species. Egg-containing segments are passed in the faeces. The eggs are then ingested by intermediate hosts, which can vary depending on the specific tapeworm species. For example, Dipylidium caninum uses fleas as intermediate hosts, while Taenia tapeworms may use small mammals like sheep, kangaroos, rodents or rabbits. Dogs become infected when they accidentally ingest the intermediate host containing the infective larvae. 

Once the larvae are ingested by the dog, they develop into adult tapeworms in the dog's small intestine, completing the life cycle. The adult tapeworms can grow and produce more proglottids, continuing the process.

Unlike other intestinal parasites, dogs are not infected by eating tapeworm eggs. The tapeworm must first pass through the flea (intermediate host) in order to infect the dog.

Tapeworm Symptoms in Dogs

• One of the most apparent signs of a tapeworm infection is the presence of small, white, rice-like segments in the dog's feces or around the anal area. These segments may be moving or appear dried up.
• Dogs with flea tapeworms may experience itching around the anus, which can lead to excessive licking or scooting along the ground in an attempt to alleviate the discomfort. Scooting can also be caused by other problems, such as anal gland issues.

• In severe cases or with a heavy infestation, tapeworms can compete with the dog for nutrients, leading to weight loss and a generally thin appearance.
• Poor coat condition
• Increased appetite
• Occasional diarrhea
• Intermittent digestive upsets

How Do Dogs Get Rid of Tapeworms?

Treatment is both simple and effective using today's deworming medications. Deworming medication can be given as a tablet or injection. Along with deworming medication, effective flea control is vital, especially for tapeworms that use fleas as intermediate hosts. If your dog lives in a flea-infested environment, he could be re-infected with tapeworms in as little as two weeks. Flea control is essential for the management and prevention of tapeworm infections. As tapeworm medication is very effective, recurrent tapeworm infections are almost always due to reinfection by fleas rather than the failure of worming products.

How To Prevent Tapeworms in Dogs?

1. Properly Dispose of Dog Feces

Pick up your dog's feces promptly and dispose of it properly in a sealed bag. This helps prevent the spread of tapeworm eggs and reduces the risk of contamination in the environment.

2. Keeping dogs away from dead animals and litter

3. Flea Control

Fleas are a common intermediate host for tapeworms, so preventing flea infestations can significantly reduce the risk of tapeworm infections.

Related: Flea Tick and Heartworm Prevention for Dogs

4. Maintain a Clean Living Environment

Regularly clean and disinfect your dog's living area, including bedding, toys, and any other items they frequently come into contact with. This helps minimize the chances of tapeworm eggs or larvae being present in the environment.

FAQs

Can Humans Get Tapeworms From Dogs?

Yes, humans can potentially get tapeworm infections from dogs. While most tapeworm species are specific to certain animal hosts and do not infect humans, there are a few tapeworm species that can be transmitted from dogs to humans. The most common tapeworm species that can be passed from dogs to humans is called Dipylidium caninum.

The transmission of tapeworms from dogs to humans typically occurs through accidental ingestion of tapeworm eggs. This can happen if a person comes into contact with dog feces that contains tapeworm eggs or if they accidentally swallow fleas that are carrying tapeworm larvae. The larvae then develop into adult tapeworms in the human intestine.

Is There a Vaccine for Tapeworms in Dogs?

There is no vaccine for tapeworms.

Do Tapeworms Go Away on Their Own?

Tapeworm infections do not typically go away on their own without treatment. Once a person or animal is infected with tapeworms, the tapeworms will continue to live and grow within the host's intestines, unless specific treatment is administered to eliminate them.

It's important to note that while some tapeworm infections may not cause noticeable symptoms or severe health issues, they still require appropriate treatment.

Can Dogs Survive Tapeworms?

Yes, dogs can survive tapeworm infections with appropriate treatment. Tapeworm infections, while undesirable, are generally not life-threatening to dogs, especially when promptly diagnosed and treated.