Worms are a common health issue in dogs, including Shih Tzus. These internal parasites can affect your dog’s digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being. Some types of worms can even be transmitted to humans, making early detection and treatment essential. Since symptoms are not always obvious, it’s important for Shih Tzu owners to recognize the signs of worms, understand how they are transmitted, and know the best ways to treat and prevent infestations.
What Are the Most Common Types of Worms in Shih Tzus?
Different types of worms can affect a Shih Tzu, and each type has its own symptoms and risks. Knowing which type of parasite is causing the problem helps determine the best treatment.
Roundworms (Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina)
Roundworms are one of the most common parasites in dogs, especially in puppies. They look like long, white spaghetti-like worms and live in the intestines, absorbing nutrients from the dog’s food. Puppies often contract them from their mother or contaminated environments. Symptoms of roundworms include bloated belly, diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss.
Hookworms (Ancylostoma, Uncinaria)
Hookworms are small but dangerous parasites that attach to the intestinal wall and feed on blood, leading to anemia and weakness. Puppies and small dogs like Shih Tzus are especially vulnerable. Symptoms include pale gums, weight loss, bloody diarrhea, and weakness.
Tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum, Taenia spp.)
Tapeworms are flat, segmented worms that live in the intestines. Dogs usually get them by ingesting infected fleas or raw meat. A telltale sign of tapeworms is small, rice-like segments in the dog’s feces or around the anus. Other symptoms include increased appetite, scooting, and weight loss.
Whipworms (Trichuris vulpis)
Whipworms are thin, thread-like parasites that live in the large intestine and cause chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and dehydration. They are harder to detect in stool samples, making diagnosis more challenging.
Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis)
Heartworms are spread by mosquito bites and are one of the most dangerous parasites for dogs. Unlike intestinal worms, heartworms live in the heart and lungs, causing coughing, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. If untreated, heartworm disease can be fatal. Preventative medication is the only way to protect a Shih Tzu from heartworms.
How Does a Shih Tzu Get Worms?
A Shih Tzu can get worms through different sources, depending on the type of parasite. Some of the most common ways dogs get infected include:
- Ingesting contaminated feces or soil – Many worms are transmitted through infected poop, which can be found in parks, streets, and backyards.
- Eating infected prey or raw meat – Some worms, like tapeworms, are transmitted through small animals like rodents or raw, undercooked meat.
- Fleas – Tapeworms can spread when a dog accidentally ingests a flea carrying tapeworm larvae.
- Mosquito bites – Heartworms are transmitted when an infected mosquito bites a dog.
- From mother to puppy – Puppies can be born with worms if their mother was infected during pregnancy.
Signs That Your Shih Tzu Has Worms
Symptoms of worm infestations vary depending on the type of parasite, the severity of the infection, and the dog’s age. Some dogs may show mild symptoms or none at all, which is why routine deworming is important.
Digestive Issues
Worms disrupt the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and bloating. If a dog vomits or passes stool with visible worms, it indicates a severe infection.
Changes in Appetite and Weight Loss
A Shih Tzu with worms may lose weight despite having a normal or increased appetite. Some dogs experience sudden changes in hunger levels due to worms competing for nutrients.
Bloated Belly in Puppies
A swollen or bloated belly is a classic sign of roundworms in puppies. If a young Shih Tzu has a big belly but appears underweight, worms may be the cause.
Lethargy and Weakness
Worms steal essential nutrients, leading to fatigue, weakness, and low energy levels. Hookworms, in particular, can cause anemia, making a dog appear pale and lethargic.
Scooting and Excessive Licking
If a Shih Tzu drags its rear on the ground or excessively licks its anus, it may have worms (especially tapeworms). This behavior is often a response to irritation or itching caused by worm segments.
Visible Worms in Stool or Vomit
In some cases, worms can be seen in the dog’s feces, vomit, or around the anus. Tapeworms look like tiny white grains of rice, while roundworms are long and spaghetti-like.
Coughing and Breathing Issues
Heartworms can cause persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, and reduced activity levels. If left untreated, heartworm disease can lead to heart failure and death.
What to Do If Your Shih Tzu Has Worms?
If you suspect your Shih Tzu has worms, follow these steps to ensure proper treatment and recovery.
1. Visit a Veterinarian for Diagnosis
A vet can diagnose worms by examining a stool sample, blood test, or physical symptoms. Identifying the type of worm is crucial for prescribing the correct deworming medication.
2. Use Vet-Recommended Dewormers
Deworming medications kill worms safely and effectively. Depending on the type of parasite, your vet may prescribe:
- Pyrantel pamoate (for roundworms and hookworms)
- Fenbendazole (for whipworms and some tapeworms)
- Praziquantel (for tapeworms)
- Milbemycin or ivermectin (for heartworm prevention)
Most dewormers are given in multiple doses over several weeks to eliminate adult worms and larvae.
3. Maintain Strict Hygiene
During treatment, clean your dog’s living area, wash bedding, and pick up feces immediately to prevent reinfection. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling your dog.
4. Prevent Fleas to Avoid Tapeworms
Since tapeworms are spread by fleas, use vet-approved flea preventatives to keep your dog parasite-free. Monthly flea treatments help break the cycle of infestation.
5. Administer Regular Preventative Deworming
Even if your Shih Tzu doesn’t show signs of worms, routine deworming is recommended. Most vets advise giving a dewormer every 3-6 months, especially if your dog spends time outdoors or around other animals.
6. Provide a Nutritious Diet
A healthy diet helps your dog recover faster from a worm infestation. Feeding high-quality dog food with essential vitamins and minerals strengthens the immune system.
7. Protect Against Heartworms with Preventative Medication
Heartworms are preventable but difficult to treat once an infection occurs. Monthly heartworm preventatives, such as Heartgard or Sentinel, protect your Shih Tzu from this deadly parasite.
Final Thoughts
Worms are a common issue in Shih Tzus, but they can be effectively treated and prevented with routine veterinary care, proper hygiene, and preventative medications. Recognizing early signs like digestive problems, scooting, or weight loss can help you take quick action before complications arise. By following a regular deworming schedule and flea control plan, you can keep your Shih Tzu happy, healthy, and free from parasites.