Diarrhea in Dogs
Our vets in Mamaroneck have seen many dogs suffering from diarrhea over the years, for a variety of reasons.
It's very common for dogs to have mild bouts of diarrhea, which can be caused by mild intestinal distress from eating something that doesn't agree with them, whether you've switched to a new flavor or brand of food or they have managed to get hold of some table scraps.
That said, more serious health issues can also cause diarrhea in dogs, along with other symptoms.
What causes diarrhea in dogs?
Here are some of the most common reasons for diarrhea in dogs:
- Parasites - roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, Coccidia or Giardia
- Medications such as antibiotics
- Pancreatitis
- Colitis
- Stress or anxiety
- Intestinal cancer
- Liver or kidney disease
- Change in diet or treats
- Eating garbage or spoiled food
- Ingestion of foreign objects such as toys, bones and fabric
- Ingesting toxins or poisons
- Viral infections such as parvovirus, distemper or coronavirus
- Bacterial infections - such as salmonella
- Inflammatory bowel disease
But how do you know whether your dog will need to see the vet for a bout of diarrhea?
When should you see your vet?
If your dog has a single episode of diarrhea and is otherwise acting normal, it is likely not a cause for concern. Monitor your dog's bowel movements to see if things clear up. More than 2 episodes could indicate a problem, so it's a good idea to call your vet if your pooch has two or more bouts of diarrhea.
If your pup is straining to pass a stool but only passing small amounts of watery diarrhea, they could be experiencing a painful blockage due to the ingestion of a foreign object such as a toy. This is a very serious concern and needs veterinary attention right away, contact your vet or head to the nearest emergency animal hospital for care.
Recurring bouts of diarrhea over a short period of time could be a sign of a very serious health issue, particularly if your pup is very old, very young, or has a compromised immune system. Infections such as parvovirus are extremely serious, contagious and life-threatening. Contact your vet right away if your pooch is experiencing repeated episodes of diarrhea.
Dogs showing other symptoms as well as diarrhea should also be seen by a vet as soon as possible. If your dog has any of the following symptoms contact your vet right away to make an appointment:
- Weakness
- Blood in stool
- Signs of dehydration (Sunken dry-looking eyes, dry nose, or dry, sticky gums)
- Unusual drooling
- Vomiting
- Lack of Appetite
If your pooch is displaying any symptoms that cause you concern, contact your veterinarian. Your vet will let you know whether your pet's symptoms indicate that an examination and subsequent diagnosis are necessary.
How can you stop diarrhea in dogs?
When it comes to treating diarrhea in dogs it's essential that you never give your dog medications formulated for people before consulting your vet. Many human medications are toxic to dogs and could cause further health complications for your pooch.
If your pup has had one or two runny or soft stools, you may want to give your dog some time to recover by simply fasting for 12 - 24 hours.
A bland diet for 24 - 48 hours may help to resolve your pup's issue. Plain-cooked white rice with a little chicken and some canned plain pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) may help to make your pup's tummy feel better. Once your pooch feels better gradually reintroduce their regular food.
Other things that might help to soothe your dog's upset tummy include natural yogurt, probiotics, peeled boiled potatoes, cottage cheese, egg with no oil added, specially formulated dog foods, and medications prescribed by your vet.
When it comes to your pup's health it is always best to err on the side of caution. By taking your pooch in for an examination you give your vet the opportunity to determine the underlying cause of your pup's diarrhea and recommend the most effective treatment.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.