Hookworm Disease in Dogs

In adult dogs there are no symptoms when a small number of hookworms are infected. In puppies with severe infections, there is pale mucous membranes, lethargy, a coarse, lustrous coat that sheds easily, reduced appetite, heterophilia, vomiting, digestive disturbances, alternating episodes of dysentery and constipation, bloody or black faeces, and in severe cases a tarry and foul smell. Puppies can develop inflamed, itchy, broken skin and erosion of the corners of the mouth until they die of severe anaemia and coma.