Mahmood Mohammed1*, Umar Yahaya Abdullahi2, Shehu Mansur Muhammad3
1Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University Gusau Zamfara, Nigeria.
2Department of Biological Sciences, Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna State, Nigeria.
3Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University Gashua-Nigeria
*Corresponding author’s Email: mmohammed@fugusau.edu.ng, doi.org/10.55639/607.020100153
ABSTRACT
Parasitic infections in dogs are important veterinary and public health concerns in Nigeria because of their effects on animal health, welfare, and productivity, as well as their potential for zoonotic transmission. This narrative review examined parasitic diseases affecting dogs in Nigeria, focusing on their epidemiology, diagnosis, control, prevention, and public health implications. Relevant literature published between 2000 and 2026 was searched in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, African Journals Online (AJOL), and ScienceDirect, alongside reports from relevant international and Nigerian institutions. Nigerian studies were prioritised, while international literature provided additional context. Commonly reported parasites included Ancylostoma caninum, Toxocara canis, Trichuris vulpis, Dipylidium caninum, Giardia, Cystoisospora, Cryptosporidium species, Babesia species, ticks, fleas, lice, and mites. Reported gastrointestinal parasite prevalence ranged from 24.7% to 77.9% across selected Nigerian studies. Major risk factors included poor sanitation, inadequate veterinary care, irregular deworming, free-roaming behaviour, environmental contamination, and limited public awareness. Diagnosis relied mainly on faecal examination, microscopy, skin scraping, blood smears, PCR, and serology. The zoonotic importance of T. canis, A. caninum, and D. caninum supports integrated One Health control through routine veterinary care, antiparasitic treatment, ectoparasite control, sanitation, responsible dog ownership, public education, and strengthened surveillance.
KEYWORDS
Canine parasites,
Endoparasites,
Ectoparasites,
Nigeria,
Zoonoses.