Table of Contents
Common types of dog worms
How can humans catch worms from dogs?
Symptoms of worm infection in humans
How to reduce the risk
Should you be worried?
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Are dog worms contagious to humans?
- By Deanne
-
- February 2, 2026
- 3 MIN READ
Worms are a common health issue in dogs, particularly puppies and dogs that spend time outdoors. Many dog owners worry about whether these parasites can spread to people, especially children. So, are dog worms contagious to humans? Keep reading to find out!
Common types of dog worms
Dogs can be affected by several types of worms, but not all pose a risk to humans. Click each worm to find out more.
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Roundworms
Roundworms are one of the most common intestinal parasites in dogs. Puppies are especially prone to them. Humans can become infected if they accidentally ingest roundworm eggs, usually from contaminated soil, sandpits, or dog faeces.
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Hookworms
Hookworms live in the dog’s intestines and feed on blood. Humans can be infected when larvae penetrate the skin, often through bare feet on contaminated ground. This can cause a skin condition known as cutaneous larva migrans.
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Tapeworms
Tapeworms are usually spread to dogs through fleas. Humans are very unlikely to catch tapeworms directly from dogs unless they accidentally ingest an infected flea, which is rare. Use vet-strength flea treatment to kill fleas on your pet and stop them transmitting tapeworm. Try Itch Flea Treatment for Dogs which is scientifically proven to kill fleas and their eggs, acting as quick as 24 hours.
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Whipworms
Whipworms affect dogs but are not considered a significant risk to humans.
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Heartworms
Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes and affect the heart and lungs of dogs. Humans are not natural hosts and infection is extremely rare, making them more of a canine health concern than a human one.
How can humans catch worms from dogs?
Dog worms are not spread through casual contact such as petting or being licked. Transmission typically happens through indirect exposure.
Here's how:
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Touching contaminated soil or sand and then touching the mouth
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Poor hand hygiene after handling dog faeces
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Walking barefoot on contaminated ground (mainly hookworms)
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Children playing in areas where infected dogs have defecated
This is why children, gardeners, and people with weakened immune systems are considered more at risk.
Protect your pet from worms.
Intestinal worms can cause serious health issues for your pet and your family, but with a regular de-worming schedule you can protect your pet, home and family from these persistent parasites.
Itch Wormer Tablets kills all common intestinal worms and prevent larvae from hatching and multiplying, until your pet's next regular treatment.
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Symptoms of worm infection in humans
In many cases, people infected with dog worms may have mild or no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they depend on the type of worm. If you suspect exposure or notice unusual symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly.
Possible symptoms include:
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Itchy, winding skin rashes (hookworms)
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Abdominal pain or discomfort
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Fever or cough (in rare cases)
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Eye or vision problems (a rare complication of roundworms)
How to reduce the risk
The good news is that preventing transmission is straightforward and effective.
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Regular deworming
Use vet-approved and fast-acting worming treatment like the Itch Wormer Tablets for Dogs which is tailored for both dogs and puppies, of any breed. Puppies need more frequent treatment, while adult dogs usually require regular preventative doses.
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Good hygiene
Always wash hands after handling dogs, soil, or dog waste
Teach children proper handwashing, especially after outdoor play
Avoid touching your face when gardening
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Clean up after your dog
Promptly picking up dog faeces reduces environmental contamination and protects others.
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Flea control
Since tapeworms are spread by fleas, keeping your dog flea-free is an important preventative measure. Use vet-approved flea treatment, like Itch Monthly Flea Subscription that keeps fleas and their eggs at bay to prevent infestation in your home.
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Safe play areas
Cover sandpits when not in use and discourage dogs from fouling play areas or gardens.
Should you be worried?
While the idea of catching worms from your dog can sound alarming, the actual risk is low for most people. With responsible pet care, regular deworming treatment, and basic hygiene, transmission is uncommon.
Dogs bring enormous benefits to our lives, and with a few sensible precautions, there’s no reason to let concerns about worms affect your relationship with your pet.
Some dog worms can be contagious to humans, but infection is preventable and rare in well-managed households. Regular deworming, good hygiene, and prompt clean-up of dog mess are the most effective ways to protect both human and canine health. If you’re ever unsure about your dog’s worming schedule or potential risks, our parasite experts can offer tailored advice for your pet. Contact us here!
Protect your pet from fleas, ticks and worms.
Vet strength flea and worm treatments, tailored to your pet and delivered for free, every month, so you never forget.
Itch Flea kills adult fleas on your pet in 24 hours and halts all other flea life stages. Itch Wormer kills all common intestinal worms and prevents newly hatched larvae from growing and multiplying.
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