Dog Health & Care

Symptoms of Worms in Dogs: How to Identify and Treat Worm Infestation in Nigeria

Staff Writer December 24, 2025 1 min read

Worm infestation is a common but dangerous problem affecting dogs in Nigeria. Learn how to identify the early symptoms of worms in dogs, the types of worms involved, and when to seek treatment from trusted veterinary stores like Epiphany Vets.

Worm infestation is one of the most common health problems affecting dogs in Nigeria. Due to warm climate conditions, poor sanitation, and frequent exposure to contaminated environments, dogs are at high risk of intestinal worms if not properly managed.

Understanding Worm Infestation in Dogs

Dogs can become infected with worms through contaminated soil, infected faeces, fleas, raw meat, or even from their mother during nursing. In Nigeria, free roaming and poor waste control increase exposure significantly.

Common Symptoms of Worms in Dogs

Digestive Symptoms

  • Persistent diarrhoea
  • Vomiting, sometimes with visible worms
  • Loss of appetite or excessive hunger

Physical Appearance Changes

  • Weight loss despite normal feeding
  • Dull or rough coat
  • Bloated or pot-bellied abdomen

Behavioural Signs

  • Lethargy and weakness
  • Scooting or dragging the rear on the floor
  • Irritability or restlessness

Types of Worms Affecting Dogs in Nigeria

The most common worms seen in Nigerian dogs include roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms. Each type causes different symptoms but all pose serious health risks if untreated.

Symptoms of Worms in Puppies

Puppies are especially vulnerable. Signs include poor growth, anaemia, severe diarrhoea, and bloated stomach. Early deworming is essential for survival.

What to Do If Your Dog Has Worms

Once symptoms are noticed, immediate deworming is recommended. Using quality, original medications is critical to ensure effectiveness and safety.

For trusted treatment options, see our detailed guide on Best Dog Dewormer in Nigeria and follow the recommended Puppy Deworming Schedule in Nigeria.

At Epiphany Vets, we provide genuine veterinary medicines, expert guidance, and safe deworming solutions tailored for Nigerian dog owners.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common symptoms of worms in dogs?

Common symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting, weight loss, dull coat, bloated stomach, and visible worms in stool or vomit.

Can worms cause weight loss in dogs?

Yes. Worms absorb nutrients from the dog’s body, leading to unexplained weight loss even when the dog is eating normally.

Are worms dangerous for puppies?

Yes. Puppies are highly vulnerable and may suffer anaemia, stunted growth, or death if worm infestation is not treated early.

Can humans get worms from dogs?

Some worms can be transmitted to humans through poor hygiene or contaminated environments, especially children.

How often should dogs be dewormed in Nigeria?

Adult dogs should be dewormed every three months, while puppies follow a more frequent schedule.

Can I see worms in my dog’s stool?

Yes. Tapeworm segments may appear like rice grains, while roundworms may resemble spaghetti.

What should I do if my dog is vomiting worms?

Seek immediate veterinary attention and administer a suitable dewormer as recommended.

Where can I buy genuine dog dewormers in Nigeria?

You should buy from trusted veterinary stores such as Epiphany Vets to avoid counterfeit medications.

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John Doe
2 days ago

Great article! Very informative and well-written. I learned a lot from this.

S
Sarah Johnson
1 day ago

Thanks for sharing! I completely agree with your points. Have you considered writing about [related topic]?