Does My Dog have an Internal Parasite?

by Fiona
(New Jersey, US)

Champ

My dog was a little overweight and we put him on a diet about a month ago.

We didn't cut his food by very much, though, and I noticed recently that he seems to have lost quite a bit of weight.

He is hungrier than usual too - although that could just be the diet.

His stool doesn't seem abnormal, but I'm starting to worry that he might have some kind of internal parasite.

Is there some way to tell whether or not he has one?

Answer

Hello Fiona!

What a wonderful dog you have! Thank you for this nice picture of him!

You didn’t mention how old Champ is, if he is neutered or not, what his initial body weight was and how quickly he lost how much of his weight. How much exercise does he get on a daily base?

Before you start a weight loss program, please take Champ to your own vet for an initial check up.

He or she will take a faecal sample for a parasitological examination under the microscope.

This is the best and safest way to tell what kind of worms infests your dog and how severe the worm burden actually is.
With the help of deworming drugs and a prescribed worming schedule you will be able to control worm infestation.

Signs of a heavy worm infestation are usually diarrhoea, scrubby hair coat, vomiting and anaemia.

A diet restricted in energy during and after a weight loss program is most important for achieving and maintaining the ideal body weight.
However, crucial for a healthy weight reduction is coverage of all requirements for essential nutrients, especially protein.

To achieve a healthy weight reduction, you would reduce the daily caloric intake by 30 - 50% of normal maintenance.
This results usually in a gradual and slow weight reduction of 1 – 2 % per week.

Let me know how Champ is getting on!

Best Wishes,

Dr Ellen Schmidt, MRCVS

This is only educational advice. It is based on the depth of your question and the picture you submitted. The above answer cannot replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as he/she has the ability to evaluate your pet in person.