A common intestinal parasite
Dipylidium in dogs is a frequent intestinal parasite, especially in pets exposed to fleas. Dipylidium in dogs refers to an infection caused by Dipylidium caninum, a flatworm that can reach up to 70 cm in length. It attaches firmly to the intestinal wall using a scolex equipped with hooks and suckers, where it matures and reproduces.
How dogs become infected
Dogs are infected when they accidentally ingest fleas or lice carrying the parasite:
- While biting or licking itchy areas
- Through grooming behavior
- By contact with a contaminated environment
Once swallowed, the parasite releases its eggs in the intestine. These eggs are expelled in the feces inside small segments. In the environment, the eggs are ingested by flea or louse larvae, continuing the life cycle. The cycle repeats when a dog swallows an infected intermediate host.
Clinical signs of Dipylidium infection
Many infected dogs show few or no signs, but common symptoms include:
- Itching or irritation near the anus
- Presence of white, rice-like segments in the feces or on the fur
- Scooting behavior (dragging rear on the ground)
- In severe cases, digestive upset, weight loss, or intestinal blockage (especially in puppies)
Diagnosing the infection
Diagnosis is generally simple:
- Visual identification of worm segments in the feces or around the anus
- Microscopic examination of eggs from crushed segments
- Full veterinary check-up if digestive signs are present
Treatment and long-term prevention
Treatment involves:
- Prescription deworming medication provided by your veterinarian
- Thorough flea and louse control on the dog
- Environmental cleaning to remove flea eggs and larvae
To prevent reinfection:
- Apply monthly flea prevention year-round
- Check regularly for signs of fleas or worm segments
- Be extra cautious during flea season or outdoor activities like hunting
