It is not uncommon for dogs to be infected with tapeworms, a common intestinal parasite. Symptoms of tapeworm infection in dogs include dragging their butt on the ground to relieve the itching, but this usually does not have serious consequences for the dog's health. However, in puppies, severe tapeworm infection may cause anemia, growth retardation, and intestinal obstruction.

If your dog shows the above symptoms or you suspect that it is infected with tapeworms, it is recommended to contact the veterinarian for examination as soon as possible. Veterinarians usually diagnose tapeworms by looking at your dog's stool or white moving parts around the anus. Treating tapeworms is usually simple and can be accomplished by giving parasiticides, which cause the tapeworms to dissolve in the intestines and you won't see them in your dog's stool.