If you have a dog, you’ve likely dealt with diarrhea more often than you’d like. It’s an unpleasant experience for both you and your furry friend. In this guide, we’ll explore the common causes of diarrhea in dogs, home remedies you can try, and when it’s time to visit the vet.
Diarrhea in Puppies: Why It’s a Bigger Concern
Puppies are more vulnerable to diarrhea, which can quickly lead to dehydration and other health complications. If your puppy has diarrhea, monitor them closely and be prepared to contact your vet if symptoms persist.
If your dog’s diarrhea lasts more than 1-2 days, it’s essential to seek veterinary care. Keep track of stool frequency, color, and consistency, as this information can help your vet determine the cause of the issue.
Additionally, be cautious when handling a dog with diarrhea. Some illnesses are transmissible to humans, so extra care is necessary, especially if you have young children.
Common Causes of Diarrhea in Dogs
Diarrhea is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying issue. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Infections (bacterial or viral)
- Parasites (worms, giardia, coccidia)
- Dietary changes (sudden diet changes, food intolerance, spoiled food, overeating)
- Toxins or poisonous plants
- Medications
- Stress
- Foreign object ingestion (toys, bones, household items)
- Underlying health issues (pancreatitis, kidney or liver disease, irritable bowel syndrome, hormonal disorders, cancer, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis)
Acute diarrhea is often caused by infections, parasites, or dietary issues. If it persists beyond 2-3 days, veterinary intervention is necessary.
What to Feed a Dog with Diarrhea
Most mild cases of diarrhea resolve with home treatment. However, if you’re unsure, always consult your vet. Hydration is crucial, as diarrhea can cause severe dehydration. Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times.
1. Fasting
- Withholding food for 24 hours allows the digestive system to rest.
- Not recommended for puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with pre-existing health conditions.
- Always consult your vet before fasting your pet.
2. Bland Diet
- Feed small, frequent meals for 24-72 hours.
- Slowly reintroduce their regular diet over 3-5 days.
- Examples of a bland diet include:
- Cooked rice + lean boiled meat (chicken or turkey, shredded)
- Boiled eggs or cottage cheese
- Pumpkin puree (100% pure, no additives)
- Mashed boiled potatoes (without skin)
- Feed small portions every few hours.
3. Prescription Veterinary Diets
- Special gastrointestinal diets from brands like Royal Canin and Hill’s Prescription Diet are formulated for digestive issues.
- Consult your vet to determine the best option for your dog.
When to Take Your Dog to the Vet
Trust your instincts—if something seems off, don’t hesitate to call your vet. However, immediate veterinary attention is necessary if your dog:
- Has diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours
- Experiences vomiting, fever, pale gums, or dehydration
- Appears weak, lethargic, or unresponsive
- Has bloody stool or stool that is very dark or yellow
- Is on medication or has an existing medical condition
- Has not been dewormed or vaccinated
Unvaccinated dogs are at higher risk for serious infections like parvovirus, which can cause severe diarrhea. Any sudden change in your pup’s bowel movements should be taken seriously.
Diagnosing the Cause of Diarrhea in Dogs
Because diarrhea can result from multiple factors, your vet will consider:
- Medical history
- Symptoms and behavior changes
- Blood tests and stool samples
- Additional diagnostic tools (X-rays, ultrasounds, endoscopy)
To help your vet, note when the diarrhea started, any changes in behavior, and take pictures of the stool (as gross as it sounds, vets find them helpful!).
How Vets Treat Diarrhea in Dogs
Since diarrhea is a symptom, treatment varies depending on the cause. Common treatments include:
- Supportive care (fluids, electrolyte replacement)
- Probiotics to restore gut balance
- Deworming medications for parasites
- Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs
- Specialized diets (Hill’s, Royal Canin)
- Surgery or hospitalization (for severe cases like blockages or infections)
Hydration is critical, as dehydration can become life-threatening. If your dog refuses to drink water, contact your vet immediately.
Important: Never give your dog over-the-counter medications without consulting a veterinarian.
Final Thoughts
Although diarrhea in dogs is unpleasant, it often resolves within a few days with proper home care. However, you know your dog best—if something feels off, it’s always safer to consult your vet.
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