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Coccidia in Dogs 

Coccidia in Dogs 

What are coccidia?  |  Where do dogs get it?  |  Symptoms | Treatment  | What do coccidia look like in stool?  | Can humans get coccidia from dogs?  | Should I buy a puppy with coccidia? 

Updated on February 03, 2023
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Reviewed by Dr. Whitney Miller
DVM, MBA, DACVPM
vet with puppy

Coccidia are single-celled organisms that can infect the lining of your pet’s intestinal system. These dog parasites are most commonly found in puppies, though pets of all kinds and ages can become sick if coccidia take hold in their body. 

Dogs can become infected by different types of coccidia, but most of them are from the genus Isospora. Regardless of the kind of canine coccidia your pet has, if left untreated, these parasites can cause severe damage to your dog’s intestinal lining. Medications used to treat roundworms and other common parasites are ineffective on coccidia, but veterinary services can help you eliminate them. 

What are coccidia? 

Coccidia are single-celled organisms called protozoa. The most common types of coccidia to infect dogs are Isospora canis, Isospora ohioensis, Isospora burrowsi and Isospora neorivolta. Keep in mind that other genera of coccidia may also infect some pets. These can include Hammondia and Sarcocystis. 

Where do dogs get coccidia? 

There are a few ways for dogs to become infected with coccidia. Most commonly, they eat something in their environment that currently serves as a host for these parasites. Your dog may eat another pet’s feces, swallow some infected dirt or bite into a small animal carrying coccidia. If your dog attacks a rat or squirrel, your vet may recommend testing them for coccidia as a precaution. 

Keeping your pup from sniffing around animal feces and digging in the dirt at the park may help stave off many cases of coccidia in dogs. You should also keep your dog away from pets currently infected with any parasite. Finally, cleaning up after your dog’s feces and disinfecting their bedding often may prevent infection. 

Symptoms of coccidia 

Some pets with coccidia will never show symptoms, but some puppies and debilitated dogs can become symptomatic, and the symptoms can be uncomfortable for your pet. Some of the most common signs of coccidia in dogs include the following: 

Diarrhea:

Loose stool can signify that coccidia is damaging the lining of your dog’s intestinal tract. While there are many reasons your dog could have diarrhea, a parasitic infection should be considered. 

Bloody stool:

If your dog’s poop has blood in it, coccidia may be to blame. Take your pet to your vet right away—even if you don’t suspect they have been exposed to coccidia. Blood in your pet’s stool typically means their intestines are bleeding and should be treated as soon as possible. 

Loss of appetite:

As their intestines become more uncomfortable, some pets may not eat as much as they usually do. If your dog refuses their favorite meal, it may be time to seek a veterinary assessment. 

Weight loss:

If they stop eating, your dog may also suffer from dramatic weight loss. If this occurs, make sure you always keep your pets hydrated as you seek treatment. 

Dehydration:

Fluid loss through diarrhea—as well as reduced intake of water—will eventually lead to a dehydrated pet.    

Depression:

With abdominal discomfort, dehydration and lack of energy from a reduced appetite, your pet will begin to feel very unwell. If they become depressed, they may act quiet and lethargic.    

When it comes to coccidia in dogs, symptoms can range from nonexistent to life-threatening. Very young puppies and canines with known health issues are at the highest risk of experiencing the more extreme symptoms. 

Treatment for coccidia in dogs 

Coccidia can be diagnosed by your veterinarian, who will examine your pet’s feces under a microscope. Common medicines prescribed for treating coccidia include sulfadimethoxine and ponazuril. These medicinal treatments can begin to work within a few days, but be sure to complete the entire course of medication; do not stop early. Many pet parents get prescription medications right from their vet or fill prescriptions at a pet pharmacy. 

Over-the-counter medications used for worms and other common parasites aren’t effective treatments for coccidia in dogs. You should also thoroughly clean your home to eliminate any parasites that may have ended up in your dog’s kennel or on pet bedding.  

What do coccidia look like in stool? 

Coccidia are so small that you can’t see the parasites with the naked eye. Instead, your veterinarian will look for small translucent eggs in your pet’s stool using a microscope. Pet parents who start to notice chronic loose stool should have their pup’s feces tested. Remember that when it comes to dog poop, red blood is a serious warning sign—but coccidia can still be present without symptoms of bloody stool. 

Can humans get coccidia from dogs? 

In most cases, dogs cannot transmit coccidia to humans, as these parasites can typically only be transferred to hosts within the same species. However, some types of coccidia may threaten people with compromised immune systems. Cryptosporidium is a species of coccidia that can infect both dogs and cats, and it has also been found in humans. 

Usually, the best way to stop coccidia transmission from dogs to people is by making sure you keep sanitary dog health & wellness practices. This includes proper disposal of your pet’s feces and cleaning up with antibacterial solutions if your pet has an accident in the house. It’s also highly recommended to wash your hands after handling your pet’s waste, whether they’re carrying parasites or not. 

Should I buy a puppy with coccidia? 

This group of organisms is particularly common in younger dogs, and you may find coccidia in a puppy from a breeder who hasn’t noticed any of the infection symptoms. While you can bring home a puppy with a coccidia infection, you should be aware they will have some additional health needs in the first few months of your time together. Your veterinarian will want to collect stool samples before and after medication is administered to make sure the parasite is eliminated. 

In addition to medical care, a puppy with coccidia will need to be kept away from other pets while they are sick to prevent them from transmitting the infection. You may want to set aside extra time with your puppy, who will be adjusting to life with a new family and may be confused about why they are isolated in a crate. With some hugs and extra treats, your new puppy should be alright in a few weeks. 

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