Tapeworms are intestinal parasites belonging to the Cestode family. They are common parasites in dogs and can be picked up in several different ways. 

There are several species of tapeworm that can infect dogs. The most encountered species in UK dogs is Dipylidium caninum. Other species include Taenia species and Echinococcus granulosus. So, what can you do about them? 

What do tapeworms look like? 

Tapeworms are flat, ribbon-like worms made up of individual segments that are joined together, like a chain. 

The body of a tapeworm consists of a head, known as the scolex, which attaches to the lining of the dog’s small intestine, followed by a series of segments called proglottids. Depending on the species, adult tapeworms can reach several centimetres in length, with some growing to around 30 cm. 

As the tapeworm matures, individual proglottids become filled with eggs. Mature segments detach from the end of the worm and are passed in the dog’s faeces. They may also become attached to the hair around the dog’s back end. 

Fresh tapeworm segments can sometimes be seen moving around the anus or on the surface of freshly passed faeces. They are often described as looking like small grains of rice. 

Once the segments dry, they can become a golden colour and eventually break open, releasing the eggs into the environment. 

What is the lifecycle of a tapeworm? 

Unlike other intestinal parasites, dogs cannot become infected simply by eating tapeworm eggs. Tapeworms require an intermediate host to complete their lifecycle before they can infect a dog. 

For Dipylidium caninum, the most common intermediate host is the flea. 

Tapeworm eggs released into the environment can be eaten by flea larvae. As the flea develops into an adult, the tapeworm also continues to develop inside it. 

When a dog grooms itself or bites at an itchy flea, it may accidentally swallow the infected flea. The flea is then digested in the dog’s intestine, releasing the developing tapeworm. The tapeworm attaches to the intestinal lining and matures into an adult, completing its lifecycle. 

This is why effective flea control is an important part of reducing the risk of Dipylidium caninum infection. 

What other species of tapeworm can affect dogs? 

Although Dipylidium caninum is the most encountered tapeworm in UK dogs, other species can also cause infection. 

Taenia species 

Taenia species are acquired when dogs eat infected intermediate hosts or prey containing the infective larval stage. 

Depending on the species, intermediate hosts can include rodents, rabbits, hares, and livestock such as sheep. 

Dogs that regularly hunt or eat prey may therefore be at greater risk of infection. Treatment can eliminate Taenia infections, but reinfection can occur if a dog continues to hunt or eat infected prey. 

Echinococcus species 

Echinococcus tapeworms are much smaller than other tapeworm species. Adult worms may consist of only a few segments and can be less than 1 cm long. 

Several species use livestock as intermediate hosts, while humans can also become accidental intermediate hosts. 

In people, infection can result in hydatid disease, also known as hydatidosis, where cysts can develop within organs such as the liver. This makes certain Echinococcus species an important zoonotic parasite. 

How are tapeworms transmitted? 

Dogs can become infected with tapeworms in several ways, depending on the species. 

  • Fleas: Dipylidium caninum is commonly transmitted when a dog accidentally swallows an infected flea while grooming. 
  • Eating infected prey: Dogs can become infected with Taenia species by eating infected rodents, rabbits, hares, or other prey. 
  • Raw or undercooked meat: Tapeworm species can be acquired by eating infected meat or tissues. 
  • Ingestion of infected material: Dogs that hunt, scavenge, or have access to potentially contaminated environments may have an increased risk of exposure. 

What are the signs of tapeworm infection in dogs? 

Dogs with tapeworms may show no obvious signs, particularly when the infection is mild. 

One of the most noticeable signs is the presence of tapeworm segments in the faeces or around the dog’s anus. These segments can look like moving grains of rice when they are fresh. 

If an infection is more significant, signs can include: 

  • Diarrhoea 
  • Itching around the anus, including scooting or excessive licking 
  • Reduced energy 
  • Weight loss 
  • Poor skin or coat condition 

If you notice these signs or suspect your dog has worms, speak to your vet or qualified RAMA/SQP for advice. 

Are tapeworms zoonotic? 

Some tapeworm species can infect humans, although the risk varies depending on the species. 

For Dipylidium caninum, human infection is uncommon because infection usually requires the accidental ingestion of an infected flea. This is more likely to occur in young children than adults. 

Other tapeworms can pose a more significant risk to human health. For example, Echinococcus granulosus can cause serious disease in people if infective eggs are accidentally ingested. Infection can lead to the development of hydatid cysts within organs, particularly the liver. 

Although human infection is rare in the UK, zoonotic disease is one of the reasons that appropriate parasite control and good hygiene are important. 

If you are concerned that you or a family member may have been exposed to a tapeworm, speak to your doctor for advice. 

How can I prevent and treat tapeworms in my dog? 

It is not always possible to prevent your dog from being exposed to tapeworms, particularly if they hunt, scavenge or have access to fleas. However, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk. 

Keep flea treatments up to date 

Regular, effective flea control can help reduce the risk of Dipylidium caninum infection. Your vet or qualified RAMA/SQP can advise you on an appropriate flea-control programme for your dog. 

Use appropriate worming treatments 

Worming treatments are available in several forms, including tablets and spot-on treatments. Not every worming product treats every type of parasite, so it is important to choose a product appropriate for your dog’s individual needs. 

Your dog’s parasite-control programme should consider their age, lifestyle, environment, travel, hunting or scavenging behaviour and other risk factors. 

Your vet or qualified RAMA/SQP can help you decide which treatment programme is appropriate. 

Avoid feeding raw or undercooked meat 

Cooking meat thoroughly can help reduce the risk of transmitting parasites that may be present in infected meat or tissues. 

Clean up after your dog 

Picking up dog faeces promptly can help reduce environmental contamination and limit the spread of parasites. 

Good hygiene is important for the whole family, so wash your hands after handling your dog, particularly before eating or preparing food. 

Treat suspected infections 

If you think your dog may have tapeworms, speak to your vet or qualified RAMA/SQP. They can recommend an appropriate treatment and help you develop an ongoing parasite-control plan based on your dog’s individual risk factors. 

Keeping your dog protected 

All dog owners should be aware of the signs of tapeworm infection and understand the importance of flea and parasite control. 

While tapeworm infections are often treatable, prevention and appropriate parasite management can help protect both your dog and your family. 

If you have any concerns about tapeworms, other parasitic worms or worming products, speak to your qualified RAMA/SQP or veterinary surgeon for professional advice.