How to Diagnose Tapeworms in Dogs

It's normal for a dog to have tapeworms, especially if other dogs are close by and fleas are prevalent where you live. While tapeworms aren't very harmful to a dog, a large number may cause some health problems if left untreated. Knowing the signs of tapeworm infestation can lead to early treatment and better long-term health for the animal.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Watch for the "scoot." A dog with tapeworms will "scoot" its anus across the floor. This is an awkward, dragging motion that an owner may mistake for a dog wiping its rear on the floor after having defecated. With tapeworms present, this is due to the dog trying to relieve the sensation of the tapeworms moving near the anus.

2. Check the dog's feces. The stools will contain what looks like rice. If you feed your dog rice regularly, it comes out processed and brown, not as a full kernel. This type of stool is a sure sign that tapeworms are present. The apparent "rice" are actually segments of the tapeworm that have broken off. The tapeworm is still in the dog, attached to the intestinal wall.

3. Monitor the dog's sleeping area for tapeworm segments that have broken off and dried. These segments will also appear rice-like, but may be cream or tan in color.

4. Look at the dog's behind. The worms exit and re-enter the anus while the dog is resting and relaxed. You need to be close to the dog in order to either see or brush into a worm. This is the most difficult symptom to detect, since it's usually purely coincidental that an owner would notice it.

5. Notice any significant changes over time. When tapeworm is left untreated, the dog eats much more than normal (or begin losing weight if food is regulated), may display signs of nervousness and in extreme cases, shows signs of abdominal pain.