What is Lungworm in Dogs & How Does it Affect Them?
Lungworm is a parasitic infection in dogs that can have serious consequences if left untreated. The parasite enters the body and moves through the bloodstream, where it can damage vital organs such as the lungs, heart, and other internal systems.
Symptoms of Lungworm in Dogs 
The signs of lungworm infection can vary, but common symptoms include:
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Persistent coughing
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Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
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Reluctance to exercise or tiring quickly
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Weight loss
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Reduced appetite
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Episodes of vomiting and diarrhoea
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Prolonged bleeding from small wounds or cuts
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, it is important to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.
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How Does Lungworm in Dogs Get Contracted?
Dogs most often catch lungworm by accidentally eating snails, slugs, or frogs that carry the larvae. Even indirect contact, such as chewing on toys, grass, or fur contaminated with infected slugs or snails, can pose a risk.
Once ingested, the larvae grow into adult worms inside the dog. These adult worms then travel through the bloodstream to the heart and blood vessels. Around four weeks after infection, they begin producing larvae, which can cause significant health issues.
Lungworm can also spread when infected dogs pass larvae in their faeces. Slugs and snails that come into contact with this waste become carriers, continuing the cycle of transmission to other dogs.
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Preventing Lungworm in Dogs
Prevention is key when it comes to lungworm. The best protection is regular worming treatment prescribed by your vet. Many veterinary wormers include coverage for lungworm as part of their protection and can protect from tapeworms, too. Your vet can advise on the most effective product and how often it should be given, based on your dog’s lifestyle and level of risk.
Good parasite control should be as routine as flea prevention to ensure your dog stays safe.
Treating Lungworm in Dogs
With early diagnosis and proper treatment, most dogs recover fully from lungworm. The type of medication prescribed will depend on the stage and severity of the infection.
If left untreated, however, lungworm can lead to complications such as inflammation, internal bleeding, and even organ damage. To confirm infection, your vet may carry out a faecal test or other diagnostic checks before starting treatment.
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FAQs on Tapeworm in Dogs:
Can dogs get lungworm in the UK?
Yes, lungworm is present in the UK, and cases have been rising in recent years. It is more commonly reported in certain regions, particularly southern England and South Wales, although dogs across the country can still be at risk.
How widespread is lungworm in dogs?
The frequency of lungworm infection varies depending on location. It is not equally common everywhere, but it is increasingly recognised as a growing problem, especially in areas with higher numbers of slugs and snails.
Can lungworm in dogs be prevented?
Yes, there are effective ways to reduce your dog’s risk of lungworm:
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Regular worming treatments: Vets can prescribe preventative medications that protect against lungworm. Keeping up with these is one of the best defences.
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Avoiding slugs and snails: Try to prevent your dog from eating or mouthing slugs, snails, or frogs, as these are the main carriers of the parasite.
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Fresh water bowls: Change outdoor water bowls frequently to avoid contamination.
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Extra caution in high-risk areas: Be vigilant when walking in places with a lot of slugs and snails.
Is lungworm visible in dog poo?
No, you will not usually see lungworms in your dog’s faeces. Infected dogs shed tiny larvae in their stools, but these are microscopic and cannot be seen without laboratory testing. Vets may use faecal samples to diagnose lungworm.
Can people get lungworm from dogs?
The species of lungworm that affects dogs in the UK (Angiostrongylus vasorum) does not typically infect humans, so it is not considered a risk to people.
