Symptoms of Dog Diarrhea – A Detailed Explanation from a Vet

Hello, dear readers. I’m Dr. Candy Akers, and as a seasoned veterinarian with years of experience under my belt, I’ve encountered and treated a plethora of health issues in our beloved canine companions. One of the most common, yet distressing, concerns I often come across is dog diarrhea. While it’s a topic that might make some squirm, it’s crucial for dog owners to be informed about. Our furry friends can’t articulate their discomfort, but understanding the nuances of their symptoms can pave the way for prompt and effective intervention. In this blog, I’ve provided a detailed breakdown of the symptoms of dog diarrhea, underpinned by both my clinical experiences and the latest in veterinary research. It’s my hope that this guide will arm you with the knowledge you need to ensure the health and well-being of your pet.

causes of diarrhea in dogs
Table of Contents

Watery Dog Diarrhea: Causes and Treatment

Before digging into the causes, it’s essential to differentiate between regular loose stools and genuinely watery diarrhea. Watery diarrhea is more fluid and can often be expelled with more force, indicating a rapid transit through the intestines. Such a consistency usually implies that the intestines haven’t had enough time to absorb the fluids.

Understanding Watery Diarrhea in Dogs

Every dog parent has encountered those unexpected bouts of diarrhea, but not all diarrhea is created equal. Distinguishing the nature and consistency of your dog’s stool can provide valuable insights into potential underlying causes, with watery diarrhea often indicating a swift passage through the intestines. Let’s take a closer look at what this entails.

Common Causes of Watery Dog Diarrhea

Dogs, with their curious nature, often end up ingesting things that might not sit well with their digestive system. While some causes of watery diarrhea are innocent enough, others can be indicative of more severe health concerns. From dietary choices to infections, let’s explore the various reasons your dog might be experiencing this condition.

  1. Dietary Indiscretions: The most common reason dogs experience watery diarrhea is due to eating something they shouldn’t have. This can include garbage, spoiled food, or non-food items.
  2. Sudden Change in Diet: Rapidly switching a dog’s food can disrupt their digestive system. It’s always recommended to make dietary changes gradually over a week or so.
  3. Intestinal Parasites: Parasites such as giardia, roundworms, and whipworms can lead to watery stools.
  4. Viral Infections: Viruses like Parvovirus and Coronavirus can cause severe watery diarrhea in dogs.
  5. Toxins: Ingesting toxic substances, such as certain plants, chemicals, or contaminated foods, can lead to rapid-onset diarrhea.
  6. Underlying Health Conditions: Diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, liver disease, or certain cancers can manifest with watery diarrhea as a symptom.

Treatment Options and Recommendations

Seeing your furry friend in distress is never easy, and watery diarrhea can certainly cause its share of discomfort. Thankfully, with a combination of home care and veterinary guidance, you can alleviate symptoms and address the root cause. Here’s a comprehensive guide on treatment avenues and recommendations to consider.

  1. Dietary Management: Feed a bland diet like boiled chicken and rice for a few days. Gradually reintroduce their regular food.
  2. Hydration: Ensure your dog has access to plenty of clean water. Dehydration is a significant concern with watery diarrhea.
  3. Probiotics and Prebiotics: These can help restore the natural balance of the gut flora. Consult your vet for suitable options.
  4. Anti-diarrheal Medications: Over-the-counter meds can be helpful, but always consult with a vet before administering any medication to your dog.
  5. Vet Consultation: If the diarrhea is persistent, accompanied by other symptoms (like vomiting, lethargy, or blood in the stool), or if you suspect your dog ingested something toxic, seek veterinary care immediately.

Prevention and Long-term Care

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially when it comes to the health of our four-legged family members. By taking proactive steps and understanding potential triggers, you can drastically reduce the chances of recurrent watery diarrhea episodes. Dive into these preventive measures and care tips to keep your dog in tip-top shape.

  1. Maintain a Consistent Diet: Avoid giving table scraps or making sudden dietary changes.
  2. Regular Deworming: Ensure your dog is on a regular deworming schedule as recommended by your vet.
  3. Vaccination: Keep up with your dog’s vaccinations to prevent viral infections.
  4. Safe Environment: Ensure that your living space is free from toxic plants, chemicals, and other substances harmful to dogs.

Understanding and being vigilant about the potential causes of watery diarrhea in dogs is the key to ensuring their optimal health and well-being. Always be in tune with your dog’s habits and symptoms and seek veterinary guidance when in doubt.

diarrhea in dogs

Blood in Dog Diarrhea: Causes and Cures

Discovering blood in your dog’s stool can be a particularly distressing sight for any pet owner. While it’s essential not to jump to worst-case scenarios, understanding why this occurs and how to address it is crucial. This segment sheds light on the causes behind bloody diarrhea in dogs and offers guidance on treatments and cures.

Identifying Blood in Dog Diarrhea

Blood in a dog’s stool can manifest in various ways, ranging from bright red streaks to a darker, tarry appearance. Being able to correctly identify the type of blood present can provide clues to its origin and the potential underlying issue. Let’s explore the nuances of spotting and distinguishing blood in dog diarrhea.

  1. Fresh Blood (Hematochezia): Bright red blood that is often streaked on the outside of the stool. It indicates bleeding from the lower intestines or rectum.
  2. Digested Blood (Melena): Dark, tarry, and often foul-smelling stools. This signifies bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Potential Causes of Bloody Stools in Dogs

From simple gastrointestinal irritation to more concerning health issues, a myriad of factors can lead to the presence of blood in your dog’s stool. Recognizing these potential causes is the first step in ensuring prompt and appropriate care. Here’s a detailed exploration of the reasons your dog might be passing bloody stools.

  1. Gastrointestinal Ulcers: Caused by medications, toxins, or underlying diseases.
  2. Parasitic Infections: Worms like hookworms can cause bleeding in the intestines.
  3. Trauma or Injury: Ingesting sharp objects or severe worm infestations can lead to internal injuries.
  4. Colitis: Inflammation of the colon can result in bloody diarrhea.
  5. Anal Gland Issues: Infected or abscessed anal glands can cause blood in the stool.
  6. Cancer: Tumors in the gastrointestinal tract can result in bloody stools.
  7. Infectious Diseases: Conditions like parvovirus can cause severe bloody diarrhea.

Effective Cures and Treatments

Once you’ve identified blood in your dog’s stool and potentially pinpointed a cause, the next step is treatment. Depending on the severity and underlying issue, the approach can range from home care to more intensive medical interventions. Here are some guidelines on addressing and treating bloody diarrhea in dogs.

  1. Dietary Adjustments: Feeding a bland diet can help soothe the digestive tract.
  2. Anti-inflammatory Medications: For conditions like colitis, certain medications can help reduce inflammation.
  3. Deworming: If parasitic infections are the cause, deworming medications will be required.
  4. Antibiotics or Antivirals: For bacterial or viral infections.
  5. Surgery: In the case of tumors, obstructions, or severe injuries, surgical intervention might be necessary.
  6. Hydration and Supportive Care: Fluid therapy might be needed, especially if the dog is dehydrated.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

While some mild cases of bloody diarrhea can resolve on their own, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Persistent symptoms, accompanying signs of distress, or if your dog appears lethargic and unwell, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian promptly. Remember, early detection and treatment can make all the difference in your pet’s recovery.

symptoms of diarrhea in dogs

Mucus in Dog Diarrhea: What it Means

The sight of mucus in your dog’s stool might initially be alarming. While it’s not as commonly discussed as other symptoms, it’s something many dog owners encounter at some point. Mucus plays a specific role in your dog’s gastrointestinal system, and its presence in the stool can convey vital information about your pet’s health. Let’s delve into the significance of mucus in dog diarrhea and decode what it means.


What is Mucus and Why is it in the Stool?

Mucus is a slippery secretion produced by the intestines to help lubricate and protect the inner lining of the digestive tract. While a small amount can be a normal occurrence, a notable increase in its presence in the stool can be indicative of certain health issues. Understanding the function of mucus helps in interpreting what excessive amounts might signify.


Common Reasons for Mucus in Dog Diarrhea

Several factors can lead to the presence of mucus in a dog’s stool. Whether it’s due to dietary choices, infections, or underlying health concerns, recognizing these causes is pivotal for ensuring the well-being of your canine companion. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the potential reasons behind mucus-laden stools.

  1. Dietary Indiscretion: Consuming spoiled food or unfamiliar items can irritate the intestines, leading to mucus production.
  2. Intestinal Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can cause inflammation in the intestines, leading to increased mucus secretion.
  3. Parasitic Infestations: Worms or protozoan parasites can irritate the intestinal lining.
  4. Colitis: Inflammation of the colon or large intestine can cause an overproduction of mucus.
  5. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A chronic condition affecting the large intestine, often resulting in mucus in the stool.
  6. Food Allergies or Sensitivities: Some dogs may produce mucus in response to certain foods that don’t agree with them.

Addressing Mucus in Dog Diarrhea

If you’ve identified mucus in your dog’s stool, the next step is understanding how to approach the situation. Depending on the underlying cause, the solution can range from simple dietary adjustments to more involved medical treatments. Here’s a guide to tackling mucus in dog diarrhea.

  1. Dietary Changes: Switching to a bland diet or a hypoallergenic diet can help if food is the irritant.
  2. Probiotics: These can aid in restoring gut health and balance.
  3. Deworming: If parasites are suspected, a vet-prescribed dewormer can help.
  4. Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics may be prescribed based on the cause.
  5. Monitor and Consult: If the presence of mucus is persistent or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like blood or vomiting, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian.

Keeping a Vigilant Eye

Mucus in a dog’s stool can often be a transient issue, resolving on its own. However, as responsible pet owners, it’s crucial to observe any recurring or accompanying symptoms. Consistent vigilance and a proactive approach to any changes in your dog’s health can ensure they remain happy and thriving.

Dehydration in Dogs with Diarrhea

The repercussions of diarrhea in dogs extend beyond the immediate discomfort and distress; one significant consequence is dehydration. As dogs lose vital fluids and electrolytes through frequent bowel movements, their risk of becoming dehydrated increases considerably. Understanding the signs, causes, and treatment of dehydration in dogs battling diarrhea is essential for every pet owner. Let’s explore this critical aspect of canine health in depth.


Understanding Dehydration in Dogs

At its core, dehydration is the result of the body losing more fluids than it’s taking in, disrupting the balance of essential minerals. Especially in dogs, even mild dehydration can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly. Being aware of the science behind dehydration allows us to recognize its onset and implications more effectively.


Why Diarrhea Causes Dehydration

While it might seem evident that diarrhea can result in fluid loss, the connection between the two runs deeper. When a dog experiences diarrhea, it’s not just the obvious fluid that’s being expelled. Vital electrolytes and minerals are also lost, intensifying the dehydrating effect. Here are the primary ways diarrhea accelerates dehydration in dogs:

  1. Rapid Fluid Loss: Frequent, watery stools cause dogs to lose fluids at an accelerated rate.
  2. Loss of Electrolytes: Essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and chloride, crucial for many bodily functions, are expelled with the stools.
  3. Reduced Water Intake: Some dogs may drink less when they’re feeling unwell due to diarrhea, further exacerbating dehydration.

Signs of Dehydration in Dogs

Spotting dehydration early can be the key to preventing more severe complications. Familiarizing yourself with these telltale signs ensures that you can take swift action when needed:

  1. Sunken Eyes: Eyes might appear deep-set and lack their usual brightness.
  2. Dry Nose and Gums: A moist nose and gums are signs of a hydrated dog; dryness can indicate dehydration.
  3. Loss of Skin Elasticity: When pinched, the skin of a dehydrated dog might not return to its place quickly.
  4. Increased Heart Rate: A rapid heartbeat can be a sign of dehydration.
  5. Lethargy: Dehydrated dogs may appear more tired and less active than usual.

Treating and Preventing Dehydration

If you suspect your dog is dehydrated, especially in the context of diarrhea, it’s essential to act promptly. Here are steps and precautions to ensure your dog remains hydrated:

  1. Access to Clean Water: Ensure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water. Encourage them to drink, but don’t force them.
  2. Oral Rehydration Solutions: These can help replenish lost electrolytes. Consult with a vet for recommendations.
  3. Fluid Therapy: In severe cases, intravenous or subcutaneous fluid administration at a vet clinic might be required.
  4. Monitor Water Intake: Be observant of how much your dog is drinking daily.
  5. Dietary Management: Feeding a bland diet can help in reducing diarrhea and, in turn, potential dehydration.

The Importance of Proactive Care

While diarrhea is an unpleasant experience for your canine friend, its side effects, like dehydration, can be even more detrimental. By understanding the close link between the two and being proactive in your care, you can safeguard your dog’s health and well-being.

Coping with Frequent Dog Diarrhea

Dealing with an occasional bout of diarrhea in your dog can be a trying experience, but when such episodes become recurrent, it can be both alarming and overwhelming. Frequent dog diarrhea is more than just a messy inconvenience; it could be indicative of underlying health concerns. This guide aims to assist pet owners in understanding, managing, and coping with regular occurrences of dog diarrhea.


Why is My Dog Having Diarrhea So Often?

Recurrent diarrhea can stem from a variety of reasons, ranging from simple dietary triggers to more complex health issues. Before delving into treatments, it’s imperative to identify potential causes behind the frequent bouts.

  1. Dietary Indiscretions: Dogs might frequently ingest unsuitable food or foreign objects, leading to recurring episodes.
  2. Chronic Conditions: Conditions such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) can result in constant bouts of diarrhea.
  3. Food Allergies or Intolerances: Regular consumption of allergenic foods can cause continuous digestive issues.
  4. Intestinal Parasites: Persistent infestations can be a culprit behind the repeated diarrhea.
  5. Stress or Anxiety: Emotional disturbances can manifest as gastrointestinal symptoms in some dogs.

Management Strategies for Frequent Diarrhea

If your dog is regularly experiencing diarrhea, implementing specific management strategies can mitigate the effects and offer some relief. Here are some key approaches:

  1. Dietary Adjustments: Opt for a consistent, bland diet or a hypoallergenic food recommended by a vet.
  2. Regular Deworming: Ensure that your dog is dewormed routinely to prevent parasitic issues.
  3. Probiotics and Digestive Aids: These can help maintain gut health and potentially reduce the frequency of diarrhea episodes.
  4. Stress Reduction: If anxiety is a contributing factor, consider calming aids or behavioral therapy.
  5. Hydration Monitoring: Given the risk of dehydration, ensure your dog has constant access to fresh water.

Consultation and Diagnostics

For dogs with chronic diarrhea, veterinary consultation is essential. Here are steps to expect:

  1. Detailed History: Your vet will want a comprehensive history, including diet, frequency of episodes, and any other symptoms.
  2. Diagnostic Tests: This might include fecal tests, blood work, X-rays, or ultrasounds.
  3. Dietary Trials: A vet might recommend specific diets to rule out food allergies or intolerances.

The Emotional Toll and Support

Beyond the physical health of your pet, recurrent dog diarrhea can be emotionally taxing for pet owners. Finding support in online forums, local pet groups, or from your veterinarian can offer solace. Remember, you’re not alone, and many have navigated similar challenges with their furry friends.


The Way Forward

While coping with frequent dog diarrhea can be daunting, armed with knowledge and a proactive approach, you can improve the quality of life for your canine companion. Consistent care, vet consultations, and being attuned to your dog’s needs are pivotal in this journey.

Loss of Appetite with Dog Diarrhea

It’s disheartening to watch our beloved pets turn away from their food, especially when we are trying to nourish them back to health. Loss of appetite in conjunction with diarrhea not only signifies a potential underlying problem but also poses the risk of malnourishment and further complications. Let’s dive into this concerning symptom, understanding its causes, implications, and solutions.


Linking Loss of Appetite and Diarrhea

While these two symptoms might seem unrelated at first glance, they frequently present together, especially when a dog is feeling unwell. Understanding how and why a loss of appetite might accompany diarrhea can provide clarity on the issue.

  1. Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Discomfort in the digestive tract can make a dog hesitant to eat, fearing further pain or discomfort.
  2. Systemic Illness: Some illnesses that cause diarrhea also affect a dog’s overall well-being, leading to reduced appetite.
  3. Medications: Some medications prescribed for diarrhea or related conditions might decrease appetite as a side effect.

Potential Causes of Appetite Loss with Diarrhea

Several factors can lead to decreased appetite in dogs experiencing diarrhea. Identifying the root cause is crucial for effective treatment.

  1. Intestinal Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can cause both diarrhea and a decreased desire to eat.
  2. Parasitic Infestations: Worms or protozoan parasites can disturb the intestinal environment and affect appetite.
  3. Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can lead to diarrhea and significantly reduce appetite.
  4. Food Intolerances or Allergies: If certain foods irritate a dog’s system, they might become wary of eating.
  5. Stress or Behavioral Issues: Emotional factors can manifest as physical symptoms, including diarrhea and reduced appetite.

Managing and Stimulating Appetite

When a dog is experiencing a loss of appetite coupled with diarrhea, there are several strategies to encourage eating and ensure they receive adequate nutrition.

  1. Bland Diet: Offering a simple, bland diet can be less intimidating and more palatable for ailing dogs.
  2. Warming Food: Slightly warming the food can make it more aromatic and appealing.
  3. Homemade Broths: These can entice dogs with their aroma and can be nutritionally beneficial.
  4. Appetite Stimulants: In some cases, vets might prescribe medication to stimulate a dog’s appetite.
  5. Hydration: Always ensure that your dog has access to fresh water, as dehydration can further suppress appetite.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

A brief period of decreased appetite might not be alarming, especially if your dog is otherwise behaving normally. However, if this loss of appetite persists for more than 24 hours, is accompanied by other serious symptoms, or if your dog appears lethargic, it’s imperative to seek veterinary advice.

Abdominal Pain in Dogs with Diarrhea

When our canine companions suffer from diarrhea, it’s evident that they’re in distress. However, a less visible yet significantly concerning symptom that can accompany diarrhea is abdominal pain. Recognizing and addressing this pain is paramount to ensuring the comfort and swift recovery of our pets. In this section, we will explore the intricacies of abdominal pain in dogs with diarrhea, its causes, signs, and the means to alleviate it.


Understanding the Connection: Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain

While diarrhea is a clear manifestation of gastrointestinal upset, abdominal pain often lurks in the shadows, presenting as an internal discomfort that your dog might not outwardly show. Here’s how the two are intertwined:

  1. Inflammation: Inflammatory conditions in the gut can lead to both diarrhea and pain.
  2. Gastrointestinal Spasms: Muscle spasms in the intestines can cause painful cramps along with diarrhea.
  3. Obstructions: Any blockages can lead to diarrhea and cause significant discomfort.

Signs Your Dog Might be Experiencing Abdominal Pain

Dogs, being non-verbal, communicate their pain through behavior. Observing certain signs can give you insights into their discomfort:

  1. Restlessness: Constantly changing positions or being unable to settle.
  2. Whining or Groaning: Vocal indications of pain or discomfort.
  3. Swollen Abdomen: A bloated or tight belly can indicate pain or other issues.
  4. Avoidance of Touch: Being hesitant or aggressive when their belly area is touched.
  5. Hunched Back: A curved or hunched posture can be a defensive stance against pain.

Common Causes of Abdominal Pain with Diarrhea

Several factors can lead to abdominal pain in dogs, especially when accompanied by diarrhea. Identifying the root cause can aid in effective treatment:

  1. Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines can cause pain and diarrhea.
  2. Foreign Bodies: Ingestion of non-food items can irritate the gut, leading to pain and loose stools.
  3. Intestinal Parasites: Worms or other parasites can disturb the intestinal lining and cause pain.
  4. Pancreatitis: As previously mentioned, inflammation of the pancreas can result in both symptoms.
  5. Gastric Ulcers: Open sores in the stomach lining can be painful and disrupt normal bowel movements.

Alleviating Abdominal Pain in Dogs

Once you suspect your dog is in pain, there are measures to help ease their discomfort:

  1. Seek Veterinary Care: A proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
  2. Pain Relievers: Administer only those prescribed by a vet specifically for your dog.
  3. Dietary Adjustments: A temporary bland diet can reduce strain on the digestive system.
  4. Warm Compress: Applying a warm cloth to the belly can provide some relief (ensure it’s not too hot).
  5. Hydration: Dehydration can exacerbate pain, so ensure your dog is well-hydrated.

Prioritizing Comfort and Well-being

While diarrhea is an overt sign of discomfort, abdominal pain might go unnoticed until it becomes severe. Being attuned to your dog’s behaviors and prioritizing their comfort will foster a trusting bond and ensure they receive the care they need during such challenging times.

Weight Loss Due to Dog Diarrhea


Witnessing our pets shed pounds unintentionally can be deeply concerning. When diarrhea is persistent, one of the unfortunate consequences can be unintentional weight loss. This not only impacts a dog’s physical health but also its energy levels, mood, and overall well-being. In this segment, we’ll delve into the association between diarrhea and weight loss, the potential risks, and ways to combat and reverse these effects.


Diarrhea’s Role in Weight Loss

While weight loss can stem from various causes, chronic diarrhea is a significant contributor. Here’s how diarrhea can lead to such drastic reductions in weight:

  1. Nutrient Malabsorption: Diarrhea can prevent the intestines from effectively absorbing essential nutrients.
  2. Increased Caloric Loss: Rapid transit of food through the digestive system leads to caloric wastage.
  3. Loss of Appetite: As discussed earlier, diarrhea can cause a diminished desire to eat.

Signs of Unintentional Weight Loss in Dogs

Identifying weight loss in its early stages can be crucial to addressing any underlying issues promptly. Watch out for these signs:

  1. Visible Ribcage: An increasingly prominent ribcage might be an indication of weight loss.
  2. Lethargy: A decrease in energy levels or reluctance to play can signify caloric deficiency.
  3. Changes in Eating Habits: Refusing food or eating less than usual.
  4. Loose Skin: Skin that seems less elastic or hangs more loosely than before.

Potential Health Impacts of Weight Loss

Sustained weight loss due to diarrhea can have several repercussions on a dog’s health:

  1. Muscle Atrophy: Reduced protein absorption can lead to muscle wastage.
  2. Weakened Immune System: Nutrient deficiencies can compromise the immune system, making dogs more susceptible to infections.
  3. Reduced Stamina: Weight loss can lead to diminished energy reserves, affecting overall stamina.
  4. Bone Health: Persistent weight loss can affect bone density, making them more prone to fractures.

Combatting Weight Loss from Diarrhea

Once you’ve recognized the weight loss in your pet, there are actionable steps to help them regain their health:

  1. Veterinary Consultation: Always begin with professional advice to address the root cause of diarrhea.
  2. Nutritional Supplements: Under a vet’s guidance, introduce supplements to fill nutritional gaps.
  3. High-Calorie Diet: Opt for high-quality, calorie-dense foods to help your dog regain weight.
  4. Regular Monitoring: Keep a consistent check on your dog’s weight and adjust the dietary plan as needed.
  5. Hydration: Alongside nutrient loss, diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which further exacerbates weight loss. Ensure your dog stays hydrated.

Restoring Health and Vigor

Tackling weight loss due to diarrhea can be challenging, but with the right approach, determination, and guidance, your dog can return to its healthy, vivacious self. Through vigilant care, nutritional adjustments, and love, you can help your canine companion bounce back from the adverse effects of persistent diarrhea.

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of our canine companions’ health is a journey every pet owner undertakes with love and dedication. Diarrhea, though common, can manifest with a myriad of symptoms, from the overt to the subtle. As we’ve delved into the nuances of these signs, from abdominal pain to unintended weight loss, it’s evident that our role goes beyond just observation. We must be proactive, understanding, and always ready to seek expert advice. Remember, while the internet offers valuable insights, always consult with your veterinarian when in doubt. Your dog’s health and well-being is a shared responsibility between you and your trusted vet. By working together, armed with knowledge and compassion, we can ensure our furry friends lead happy, healthy lives. Here’s to the many joyful moments and memories ahead with your beloved pet!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long should I wait before consulting a vet if my dog has diarrhea?

While occasional, mild diarrhea might resolve on its own, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian if the diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours, if there are other alarming symptoms (like blood or mucus in the stool), or if your dog seems particularly unwell or lethargic.


2. Can I give my dog human medications for diarrhea or abdominal pain?

Never administer human medications to your dog without consulting a veterinarian. Some human medicines can be toxic to dogs and might exacerbate the condition or lead to other serious health issues.


3. How can I prevent my dog from getting diarrhea in the future?

Ensuring a consistent, balanced diet, regular deworming, timely vaccinations, and avoiding abrupt dietary changes can help reduce the risk of diarrhea. Also, try to prevent your dog from scavenging or ingesting foreign items during walks.


4. Is it normal for my dog to lose appetite along with diarrhea?

It’s not uncommon for dogs with diarrhea to experience a temporary loss of appetite. However, if this persists or is accompanied by other severe symptoms, it’s essential to seek veterinary care to address any underlying issues.


5. My dog has had multiple episodes of diarrhea in the past few months. Should I be concerned?

Frequent bouts of diarrhea could indicate an underlying health condition, food allergies, or sensitivities. It’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to pinpoint the cause and devise a suitable treatment or management plan.

Dr. Candy Akers, DVM

Holistic Veterinarian, Veterinary Clinic Owner, Veterinary Medical Supervisory Board Leader, Certified Raw Dog Food Nutrition Specialist, and Author Dr. Candy completed her undergraduate studies at The University of Delaware and graduated veterinary school in 2009 from Oklahoma State University. In high school, she was drawn to wildlife rehabilitation. Wildlife rehab gave her unparalleled experience in animal healing in a field that has limited resources and a wide variety of conditions to treat. Before vet school, Dr. Akers spent two years working full time providing oil spill response for wildlife all over the country. Since graduating with her Degree of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in 2009, Dr. Candy has specialized in companion animal nutrition. Extensive education in nutrition has made her a firm believer in species specific-biologically appropriate diets. One of her passions is educating pet parents about the natural alternatives that actually work. She brings the best of holistic health and conventional medicine together in a unique approach to pet health. This approach is often applied to chronic diseases, allergies, and autoimmune conditions. She started her own veterinary practice 9 years ago in Colorado. Overall, she has dedicated her entire life to improving the health and happiness of animals everywhere.

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