Home » Diseases » In dogs » Canine Angiostrongylosis (Parasitic Infections of the Lungs with Angiostrongylus Vasorum)

Canine Angiostrongylosis (Parasitic Infections of the Lungs with Angiostrongylus Vasorum) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Chest

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. angiostrongylosis is a parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs caused by the lungworm Angiostrongylus vasorum, which affects the dog’s heart and lungs and can lead to serious health problems.

The most important facts at a glance

Canine angiostrongylosis is a parasitic infection caused by the nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum, which affects dogs and other canids. The parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. has a complex life cycle that includes snails and slugs as intermediate hosts. Dogs become infected by ingesting these intermediate hosts or contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. materials. After infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., the larvae migrate through the dog’s body to the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. arteries, where they mature into adultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. worms and lay eggs. These eggs develop into larvae that are excreted via the respiratory tractThe respiratory tract includes the organs and structures involved in the breathing process, including the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs.. Symptoms of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can include Niesen, Cough, nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. discharge, and in severe cases, neurological problems. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by fecal examinations and serological tests. Treatment includes antiparasitic drugs such as moxidectin and milbemycin, as well as supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. measures for severe infections. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the severity of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and the speed of treatment. Preventive measures include avoiding contact with snails and regular deworming. Research focuses on improving diagnostic methods, developing treatment options, and preventive strategies such as vaccines. International research supported by modern technologies aims to improve the control of the disease. Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment are crucial to increase the chances of full recovery.

Causes

Angiostrongylus vasorum is a nematode that infects dogs and other canids as its definitive host. The life cycle of this parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. is complex and involves intermediate hosts such as snails and slugs, which ingest the larvae of the worm. Dogs become infected by ingesting these intermediate hosts or contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. materials.

After ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems., the larvae enter the dog’s body via the digestive tract. They migrate through the intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. wall into the blood vessels and from there to the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. arteries and the right heart. There, they mature into adultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. worms and begin to lay eggs. These eggs develop into larvae that enter the airways and are eventually excreted via the feces to complete the life cycle.

The distribution of Angiostrongylus vasorum is worldwide, but the prevalence varies depending on the geographical region. Humid climates, where snails thrive, favor the spread of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans.. The increasing mobility of dogs also contributes to the spread of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of angiostrongylosis can vary greatly and depend on the severity of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and the response of the affected dog. Common symptoms include Cough, RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, and general Atemwegsbeschwerden, as the worms affect the lungs and airways.

In addition, infected dogs may show Müdigkeit, Weight loss, loss of appetite, and general weakness. In severe cases, heart problems, blood clotting disorders, and neurological symptoms such as Krampfanfälle can occur.

Another sign of infection may be an increased Tendency to bleed, which can manifest as nosebleeds, bloody Cough, or blood in the urine. These symptoms result from damage to the blood vessels by the parasites.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. angiostrongylosis is based on a combination of clinical symptoms, anamnesis, and specific diagnostic tests. An important test is the examination of a fecal sample to detect the larvae of the parasites. This test is called the Baermann technique and is a key tool for diagnosis.

In addition, serological tests can be performed to detect antibodies against Angiostrongylus vasorum in the blood. These tests help to confirm an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., especially when direct detection of the larvae is difficult.

In some cases, a chest X-ray or an ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. of the heart may be necessary to assess the condition of the lungs and heart and to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms.

Therapy

Treatment of canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. angiostrongylosis requires the administration of antiparasitic drugs that are specifically effective against nematodes. Moxidectin and milbemycin are two commonly used drugs that can be administered orally or as an injection.

In severe cases, supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. treatment may be necessary to alleviate the symptoms. This may include the administration of oxygen, fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., and medications to stabilize heart function. Anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. can also be used to reduce the inflammatory responses in the lungs.

It is important to carry out the treatment under veterinary supervision and to monitor the dog carefully during and after the treatment to ensure that it recovers fully.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with angiostrongylosis depends on several factors, including the dog’s health, the severity of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., and the speed with which treatment is initiated. In general, dogs that are diagnosed and treated early have a good prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop..

However, if left untreated, the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can cause serious complications and, in the worst case, lead to Death. Timely diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment are crucial to increase the chances of a full recovery.

After treatment, it is important to monitor the dog regularly for relapses or re-infections, as there is a risk of re-infection, especially in areas with a high prevalence of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans..

Prevention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. angiostrongylosis focuses on avoiding contact with the intermediate hosts of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans.. Dogs should be discouraged from eating snails or slugs, and care should be taken to keep them in clean, well-maintained environments.

Regular deworming with appropriate medications can help minimize the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. It is advisable to consult a veterinarian to create a suitable deworming plan tailored to the specific needs and exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. risk of the dog.

In areas with known prevalence of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans., the use of antiparasiticsAntiparasitics are medications or substances used to treat parasitic infestations, such as worms, protozoa, and ectoparasites. They work by killing the parasites or inhibiting their growth. specifically targeting Angiostrongylus vasorum can also be considered as prophylaxisProphylaxis refers to preventive measures taken to avoid diseases or health problems. In veterinary medicine, this can include vaccinations, regular deworming, and other preventive treatments.. However, these should only be used after consulting a veterinarian to avoid overmedication.

Outlook on current research

Canine angiostrongylosis, an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. with the lungworm Angiostrongylus vasorum, is an increasingly significant problem in veterinary medicine, especially in Europe. In recent years, research has begun to address this disease more intensively in order to improve diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients., treatment, and prevention. One of the most important areas of research is the study of the distribution patterns of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans.. In Europe, the distribution area of Angiostrongylus vasorum has been shown to be growing, partly due to climatic changes and the behavior of intermediate hosts, such as snails and frogs. The research examines how these environmental factors affect prevalence and spread.

Another focus of research is the development of new diagnostic methods. Currently, serological tests that detect antibodies or antigens of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. in the blood are considered promising tools. These tests can enable early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. before clinical symptoms appear. Studies are investigating the sensitivity and specificity of these tests to improve their reliability. At the same time, research is also being conducted on molecular diagnostic methods based on PCR technology to directly detect the genetic material of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans..

The treatment of canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. angiostrongylosis usually involves antiparasiticsAntiparasitics are medications or substances used to treat parasitic infestations, such as worms, protozoa, and ectoparasites. They work by killing the parasites or inhibiting their growth. that kill the worm. Research focuses on the efficacy and safety of various active ingredients, especially because some dogs may show side effects after treatment. Alternative treatment strategies are also being investigated to avoid resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins. and minimize side effects. This includes the exploration of combination therapies or new classes of active ingredients.

PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is also an important research topic. Scientists are working on the development of vaccines that could protect dogs from infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Although there is currently no approved vaccineA vaccine is a substance that stimulates the immune system to develop immunity against specific pathogens without causing the disease itself. Vaccines may contain weakened or inactivated pathogens, toxoids, or recombinant antigens. against Angiostrongylus vasorum, initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. studies show promising results in generating an immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. in the dog. At the same time, research is also being conducted on the biological control of snail populations to reduce the transmission of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans..

Another aspect of the research is the investigation of pathogenesisPathogenesis describes the process of the origin and development of a disease, including the mechanisms that lead to the disease's symptoms and signs., i.e., the development mechanisms of the disease in the dog’s body. Researchers are trying to understand how the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. affects the dog’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. and what factors lead to the different disease courses. These findings could help improve the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for affected dogs and develop more targeted therapies.

In addition, the role of co-infections is being investigated, as dogs with angiostrongylosis often also have other parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. or bacterial infections. The interaction between different pathogens and their effects on the dog’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. are the subject of current studies. The aim is to develop more comprehensive treatment approaches that address all aspects of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

The research work is supported by the use of modern technologies such as genome sequencing and bioinformatics, which make it possible to better understand the genetic structure of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans.. This allows new target structures for therapeutic approaches to be identified. International cooperation between research institutions also contributes to the rapid advancement of knowledge in this field.

Overall, current research shows that canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. angiostrongylosis is a complex and multifaceted problem that requires a multidisciplinary approach. However, advances in diagnostics, treatment, and preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. give reason to hope that the control of this disease can be made more effective in the near future.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. Angiostrongylosis? CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. angiostrongylosis is a parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs caused by the lungworm Angiostrongylus vasorum. The parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. affects the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. arteries and the heart, which can lead to various health problems.
How do dogs become infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum? Dogs become infected by eating infected intermediate hosts, usually snails or frogs. These intermediate hosts take up the larvae of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. from the environment, and the dog becomes infected when it eats these animals.
What symptoms do dogs with CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. Angiostrongylosis show? The symptoms can vary and include Cough, RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, Weight loss, Müdigkeit, Bleeding, and in severe cases, heart problems. Sometimes dogs also show neurological symptoms or Behavioral changes.
How is CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. Angiostrongylosis diagnosed? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by a combination of clinical symptoms, blood tests that detect antibodies or antigens of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans., and imaging procedures such as X-rays or ultrasounds of the chest.
Can CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. Angiostrongylosis be treated? Yes, the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can be treated with special antiparasiticsAntiparasitics are medications or substances used to treat parasitic infestations, such as worms, protozoa, and ectoparasites. They work by killing the parasites or inhibiting their growth.. Treatment should be started as early as possible to avoid complications. In severe cases, intensive medical care may be required.
How can I protect my dog from CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. Angiostrongylosis? To reduce the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., dogs should be prevented from eating snails and frogs. There are also preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. programs based on regular deworming that your veterinarian can recommend.
Is CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. Angiostrongylosis transmissible to humans? No, Angiostrongylus vasorum is specific to dogs and other canids. Humans cannot become infected with this parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans..
Which dogs are particularly at risk? Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors and have access to gardens or forests are at greater risk because they come into contact with infected intermediate hosts more often. Younger dogs also seem to be more susceptible.
Are there regional differences in the distribution of Angiostrongylus vasorum? Yes, the distribution can vary depending on the region. The parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. is mainly found in Europe, parts of Africa, and South America. In Europe, it is currently spreading further, including to areas where it was not previously found.
Can my dog recover completely after an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.? With timely and appropriate treatment, many dogs can recover completely, especially if the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is detected early. However, in some cases, permanent damage or recurring symptoms may occur, especially if treatment is started late.