With a hook-shaped mouth giving them their name, hookworms are highly contagious intestinal blood-sucking worms that adult dogs and puppies frequently get. There are several species of hookworms in dogs, including Ancylostoma caninum, Uncinaria stenocephala and Ancylostoma braziliense, to name the more common species found in the intestines of our beloved pups. Read on to learn the answer to "How do dogs get hookworms?" as well as how to protect your dog from this parasite.
How Do Dogs Get Hookworms?
Dogs of all life stages are vulnerable to hookworms, and there are four ways dogs can get them:
- Feces: Oftentimes, hookworm eggs are passed in the feces of infected dogs. When an infected dog defecates outside, hookworm eggs are left behind on the soil. Outdoors, the eggs grow and hatch, surviving well in warm, humid environments. After hatching, the juvenile form of the worm, called larvae, is released. It's the larval form of the hookworm that's able to penetrate the skin of its unsuspecting host.
- Ingestion: A dog can get hookworms via ingestion as well. If a dog licks their fur or chews their foot, they can ingest the eggs of the parasite. They can also consume the parasite by eating the feces of an infected animal (known as fecal-oral transmission). According to Today's Veterinary Practice, inside the dog's body, the worm attaches to the intestines with its three sets of teeth and feeds off of their blood supply.
- Transplacental Transmission: Puppies can get hookworms while still inside their mother's uterus. When this happens, the parasites are spread via the placental bloodstream.
- Transmammary Transmission: Lastly, after birth, the puppy can contract the worm through their mother's milk when nursing.
What Are the Clinical Signs of Hookworms in Dogs?
Many dog parents are shocked when their veterinarian finds hookworms during routine fecal exams, but this isn't uncommon as many dogs infected with the parasite don't exhibit clinical signs. Sometimes, you may notice your dog itching, or you might see a rash on their paws because hookworms cause discomfort when they burrow into the skin. If your pup is a paw chewer, this behavior may not initially spark your attention.
Other common signs affect the gastrointestinal tract but may also include:
Pale gums are a result of anemia that can develop as the hookworms ingest blood in the intestines. Failure to thrive is common among puppies with hookworms.
Tasty Tips
Can Hookworms in Dogs Spread to People?
You bet. Certain diseases, including hookworms, are considered "zoonotic" because they can spread from animals to people. Hookworm larvae are notorious for burrowing into the soles of people's feet, as the New York Post mentioned. It's also possible for a dog to spread hookworms to you by licking or kissing you on the mouth when they have the parasite in their mouth. On rare occasions, the larvae can migrate through tissue in the human body and cause something called "larva migrans." This condition can cause damage to the internal organs and has been linked to many cases of blindness, especially in children.
Lucky for us, the adult form of the hookworm doesn't infect humans and will die within a few weeks when inside of us. However, hookworm infections are on the rise — up 47% from 2012 to 2018, according to a study cited by Veterinary Practice News.
How Are Hookworms in Dogs Diagnosed and Treated?
Diagnosing hookworms in dogs is usually straightforward, involving taking a stool sample and examining a microscopic slide for the presence of hookworm eggs. Eggs aren't guaranteed to always be present as they can shed intermittently. As a result, more than one fecal exam may be essential for diagnosis. Because hookworms don't always cause signs of physical illness, your dog should have fecal exams twice a year.
Several different kinds of medication, called anthelmintics, can effectively treat hookworms. Injectable and oral forms of medications are available as well. Your vet will be able to determine which would be best for your dog. For dogs with severe hookworm infestations, additional treatments may be needed. For instance, dogs who have developed anemia will need to have their blood cell count monitored. They can even require a blood transfusion, though puppies tend to be most at risk for this severe anemia.
Heartworm preventative medication will prevent a dog from getting a hookworm infection, and depending on the product, it may or may not help with an existing infection. Because of this and the frequency of intestinal parasites seen in dogs, routine dewormings are recommended for all dogs. Talk to your vet about any concerns you may have regarding your dog and hookworms. Keep in mind that if you follow best practices for checkups and preventative care, your pup should stay happy and healthy.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Chicken & Potato Recipe dog food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free dry dog food is gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small & Mini Chicken Recipe dog food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Large Breed Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition. Delicious food in a large bite size.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Small & Mini Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up, specially designed for small & mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Entrée Variety Pack Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small Bites Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition. Delicious food in a small bite size.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Salmon & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Hearty Vegetables and Tuna Stew Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Turkey & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken & Vegetable Entrée Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew Can Variety Pack Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Chicken & Zucchini Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Turkey & Rice Stew dog food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Puppy No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports healthy brain, eye, muscle, bone & immune system development in growing puppies
Related articles
Why Is My Dog Eating Dirt?
Dogs eating dirt: it can be a random occurrence or a regular thing, so learn what to do if you notice this behavior and if you should visit the vet.
Are There Dog-Safe Hair Dyes?
Read about options for dog-safe hair dye, including which breeds and hair types work best with dyes and how to safely apply it to your dog's coat.
Weight Loss Goals & How Your Dog Can Help
Learn some great ways to involve your dog in your weight loss goals, including exercise & activities you can both do and healthy snacks for both of you.
Dog Enclosures: How to Keep Your Dog in a Safe Area
Are you looking for a way to keep your dog safe? There are many options for dog enclosures, and it's important to know what to look for.
What Happens When My Dog is in Heat?
Understand what it means for your female dog to be in heat and what you can do to provide her with the best care.
Safe Dog Biscuits to Share with Your Pup
You love your dog, and you want to spoil him with treats all year round without compromising his health. What are the best safe dog biscuits?
How to Manage IBD in Dogs
Learn if your dog may be experiencing symptoms of IBD, why it's different from IBS in people, and how your vet can help manage and treat this condition.
Walking Big Dogs Safely: Tips and Tricks from Dog Experts
Learn expert tips on the best ways to walk your large breed dog, including training suggestions, which equipment works best, and how to walk multiple dogs.
Steps to Take If Your Dog Is Vomiting Blood
Here are three steps to take if you find that your dog is vomiting blood.
Taking your dog to the vet
Trips to the vet can be a challenge for dog owners. Read these tips to have a better vet visit for your dog, including transporting the dog with a carrier.
'Made in the USA' Dog Food: What You Need to Know
Do you know where your dog food of choice comes from? Is it truly Made in the USA? Learn about, label products as Made in the USA.
How to Handle Dogs Who are Picky Eaters
You feed tasty and nutritious dog food, yet your dog only sniffs and licks at it. It’s time for the next meal, but the previous meal still isn’t finished. You might have a finicky dog!
Your Dog in Pain: Recognizing & Relieving
Learn how to recognize the signs & symptoms if your dog is in pain, whether you should give him medication, and if you need to call a veterinarian.
Why Is My Dog Rubbing Their Nose Raw?
If you notice your dog rubbing his nose raw on different surfaces, you probably want to know why. Learn common reasons for this behavior & prevention tips.
Dogs & Holiday Sweets: Which Are Bad & What To Do if a Dog Eats Them
If you suspect that your dog has eaten holiday sweets or candy, find out which common treats might be dangerous for him and what you should do next.
Can Dogs Get Braces? (& Are They Safe?)
Learn when braces can be an option for dogs, like when a dog has severe bite or teeth alignment issues, and how they can help dogs chew & eat normally.
Cleaning Your Dog's Paws: Tips for Success
Learn how to clean dog paws so you can keep them clear of muck and debris and promote paw health. Your pup's paws are made to explore.
Is My Dog Mad at Me?
Learn the truth about dogs and anger, common behaviors that are mistaken as anger, and how to better interpret and respond to times when they act out.
Tips for Traveling with Your Dog in the Car
Taking your pup on a road trip? Learn the safest means of traveling with dogs in a car.
Helping Your Dog Deal With Allergic Dermatitis & Skin Irritants
Discover seven common dog skin diseases — including causes, symptoms, and treatment — to stay educated about your dog's health.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.