How to Get Rid Of Tapeworms In Dogs

Tapeworm are one of the most common diseases that affect dogs. Tapeworms are intestinal parasites that have a head, neck and some segments attached to them. The most common cause of tapeworms in dogs is the consumption of flea-carrying tapeworm eggs. Once in the dog's body, the tapeworms begin to thrive and attach themselves to the dog's digestive system. The average tapeworm can grow to up to 8 inches (20 centimeters) long. As the tapeworm lives and thrives in the dog's digestive system, it gobbles up all the nutrients from the food that the dog eats. Once the tapeworm is fully mature, its tail end detaches itself from the body and comes out in the dog's stool.

You can tell your dog might have worms if it scoots its butt along the ground or if it licks or bites that area. Diagnosing tapeworms in dogs is not difficult and neither is treating them. Usually the vet will ask for a stool sample to check for worms {source: American Kennel Club. The vet will usually prescribe worm medication, or you can try one or more of the following home remedies.