A dangerous hookworm parasite
Ancylostoma in dogs is a common intestinal parasite, often referred to as a “hookworm” due to its curved shape. Ancylostoma in dogs (Ancylostoma tubaeforme) attaches to the small intestine and feeds on blood. It can infect dogs of all ages and is transmitted through skin contact, contaminated food or water, or maternal milk.
How is it transmitted?
There are three main routes of infection:
- Skin penetration: larvae enter through the skin (most common route)
- Maternal transmission: puppies are infected through colostrum or milk
- Ingestion of infectious larvae from water, food, or prey
Life cycle of Ancylostoma
- Adult worms anchor to the intestinal wall using sharp teeth
- Eggs are shed in the dog’s feces
- In 1–2 days, eggs hatch into larvae in the environment
- Within 5 days, larvae become infectious
Larvae enter the host by:
- Ingestion: they travel directly to the intestine
- Skin penetration: they migrate via the bloodstream to the lungs, then are coughed up and swallowed
Cycle duration varies by age:
- Newborns: 15–18 days
- Puppies: 15–20 days
- Adults: up to 26 days (12–16 if infected by eating prey)
Symptoms of hookworm infection
Signs depend on the dog’s age and parasite load:
- Diarrhea (may appear black from digested blood)
- Constipation
- Pale gums, weakness (signs of anemia)
- Weight loss, decreased appetite
- Dry cough (if larvae reach the lungs)
In severe cases, especially in puppies, the infection may be fatal.
Is Ancylostoma contagious to humans?
Yes — it is zoonotic:
- Larvae can penetrate human skin
- Risk increases when walking barefoot on contaminated ground
Diagnosing the infection
- Diagnosis is made via microscopic examination of a stool sample to identify parasite eggs
Available treatments
- Safe and effective prescription dewormers eliminate hookworms
- Veterinary guidance is essential for proper dosing and follow-up
How to prevent Ancylostoma
- Pick up feces promptly to limit environmental contamination
- Use gloves when handling waste, and wash hands thoroughly
- Wash garden vegetables before eating
- Administer monthly preventive deworming, especially from spring to fall
For tailored advice and the best preventive products, consult your veterinary team.
