How do you protect your dogs from hookworm? Hookworms are a very common intestinal parasite that infects dogs in large numbers. These small, thin and less than inch-long worms have hook-like teeth, and though they are not life-threatening parasites, one type of species can cause fatal blood loss in small puppies. And thus, it is important to get rid of these pesky parasites as quickly as possible. Before we step into the ways in which a pet parent can treat and prevent hookworm disease, let us take a closer look at these yucky creatures.