How do I know if my dog has intestinal parasites?

You’re in the backyard, watching your pup play fetch, when you notice they stop to scratch their belly more than usual—then later, you spot something odd in their poop. Moments like this make many new dog owners wonder: How do I know if my dog has intestinal parasites? These tiny invaders are more common than you might think, especially in puppies or dogs that love exploring grassy parks or interacting with other pups.

First, let’s break down why parasites happen: dogs pick them up from things like eating contaminated soil, grooming after rolling in dirty areas, or even sharing water bowls with infected animals. The good news is, there are clear signs to watch for. Keep an eye on their stool—small white specks or thin, wiggly strands could mean tapeworms or roundworms. You might also notice your dog eating more but losing weight, having diarrhea, or licking their rear end a lot to soothe itchiness. Lethargy is another clue; if your usually energetic pup suddenly seems tired, parasites could be sapping their energy.

If you spot any of these signs, don’t panic—here’s what to do next. First, collect a small sample of your dog’s poop and take it to your vet. Most vets can test the sample quickly to identify the type of parasite, then prescribe a safe, effective medication. Avoid trying over-the-counter treatments first; the wrong medicine might not work, or could even harm your dog. While waiting for the vet visit, keep your dog’s space clean—wipe down food bowls daily, pick up poop in your yard right away, and wash their bedding in hot water to stop parasites from spreading.

This is also a good time to remember local rules and habits that help prevent parasites. For example, always clean up after your dog in public spaces—most areas have laws requiring this, and it stops parasite eggs from contaminating parks or sidewalks for other pets. Regular preventive care is key too; many vets recommend monthly parasite meds to keep your dog safe. And if you have kids, remind them to wash their hands after playing with the dog or being outside—this keeps everyone in the family healthy.

Knowing if your dog has intestinal parasites boils down to paying attention to small changes in their behavior and habits. It’s not a sign you’re a bad owner—parasites are a common part of dog care, and catching them early makes treatment easy. By staying vigilant, acting fast when you spot signs, and sticking to preventive steps like vet checkups and clean-up rules, you’ll keep your pup happy, healthy, and ready to get back to that fetch game in no time.