Which sign is commonly seen with canine tapeworm infection?

Which sign is commonly seen with canine tapeworm infection?

• A. Coughing and wheezing
• B. Itchy bottom and scooting
• C. Hair loss and weight gain
• D. Frequent vomiting without diarrhea

Answer: (B)

Tapeworm infections in dogs commonly cause irritation around the anal area, which leads to scooting, licking, or rubbing the hind end. You may also notice small, white, rice-like tapeworm segments around the anus or on the dog's bedding. This pattern is distinct from signs of other problems—for example, coughing or wheezing points to respiratory or heart-related issues, hair loss with weight changes suggests dermatologic or metabolic problems, and vomiting without diarrhea is a nonspecific GI sign. Because anal irritation with scooting and potential visible tapeworm segments are the hallmark clues of a canine tapeworm infection, this option is the best match.

Tapeworm infections in dogs commonly cause irritation around the anal area, which leads to scooting, licking, or rubbing the hind end. You may also notice small, white, rice-like tapeworm segments around the anus or on the dog's bedding. This pattern is distinct from signs of other problems—for example, coughing or wheezing points to respiratory or heart-related issues, hair loss with weight changes suggests dermatologic or metabolic problems, and vomiting without diarrhea is a nonspecific GI sign. Because anal irritation with scooting and potential visible tapeworm segments are the hallmark clues of a canine tapeworm infection, this option is the best match.