Dipylidium caninum

The commonest species of dog tapeworm, the double-pored tapeworm, the larvae of which are harbored by dog fleas or lice; the worm occasionally infects humans, especially children licked by dogs that have recently nipped infected fleas. [G. dipylos, with two entrances; L. ntr. of caninus, pertaining to canis, dog]

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a common tapeworm of dogs and cats, the larval stage living in fleas (Ctenocephalides canis) and lice (Trichodectes canis) of dogs, as well as in Pulex irritans, which thus act as vectors; it has been found in humans. Called also Taenia elliptica.

Dipylidium caninum. (A), Egg packet (wet mount); (B), proglottid with visible genital pores (carmine stain).