If you have a dog, chances are you’ve dealt with diarrhea at some point. While it’s often a temporary issue, it can be uncomfortable and concerning for both you and your pet. Diarrhea in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, and understanding the potential causes can help you respond quickly and appropriately.
Common Causes of Diarrhea in Dogs:
- Dumpster Diving or Overeating
- Changes in Diet
- Food Intolerances or Allergies
- Poor Gut Health (Including Leaky Gut)
- Parasites
- Bacterial Infections
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Colitis
- Antibiotics and Other Medications
- Stress and Anxiety
- Exercise-Induced Diarrhea
Oftentimes, diarrhea is triggered by poor gut health, food sensitivities, or improper foods.
What to Do When Your Dog Has Diarrhea
When Felicity experiences diarrhea but is otherwise acting normal, here are the steps that I take:
Skip Her Next Meal: I usually opt for a 12-24 hour fast, but always make sure she has access to fresh water. This gives her digestive system time to rest and recover.
This isn’t a true “fast” during this time I usually offer a meal of bone broth and Carna4 ground sprouted seeds. You could also use plain pumpkin or Adored Beasts Gut Soothe.
Note, you shouldn’t fast puppies or cats. You can offer a bland diet instead.
When you start to reintroduce food, be gentle.
Lightly cooked chicken, turkey, or fish (or whatever protein you know they tolerate best)
Pumpkin or Sweet Potato
Bone Broth
(This is also what I use for a bland diet. Ratio of 4:1 Meat:Pumpkin/Sweet Potato)
I never use rice in my bland diets, I feel pumpkin and sweet potato are much better options.
If your dog’s stools clear up, but the diarrhea returns as soon as you reintroduce their food, it’s possible there is something in their food that doesn’t agree with them.
Don’t forget to check their treats too!
Things to Consider After Your Dog Has Diarrhea
To help identify the cause, consider these questions:
- Have you introduced anything new? Treats, supplements, foods, or medications? Maybe you gave too much, too quickly
- Could your dog have eaten something they shouldn’t have? Dogs love to explore (and taste) everything!
- Has there been any new stressors in your dog’s life? Changes in the household, a recent move, a change in routine, or even construction noise can cause stress-related diarrhea.
When to Call Your Vet
While diarrhea often resolves on its own, there are times when a vet visit is necessary. Contact your veterinarian if:
- The diarrhea is accompanied by lethargy, fever, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual behavior.
- Diarrhea persists for more than 2-3 days.
- Your dog shows signs of dehydration.
- There are preexisting health conditions
If you’re ever concerned, don’t hesitate to reach out to your trusted veterinarian