If your dog has diarrhea, you’re probably worried and wondering what caused it. Occasional loose stools happen, but persistent or severe diarrhea can signal a more serious issue.
In this guide, we’ll break down the common causes of dog diarrhea, how to treat it at home, and when it’s time to call the vet.
Common Causes of Dog Diarrhea
1. Sudden Diet Change
Switching your dog’s food too quickly can upset their digestive system. Gradually transitioning over 7-10 days can help prevent stomach issues.
🔗 How to Safely Change Your Dog’s Food
🔗 Signs Your Dog’s Food Isn’t Right for Them
2. Food Intolerances & Allergies
Some dogs have trouble digesting certain ingredients like dairy, chicken, beef, or grains. If diarrhea is persistent, a food intolerance might be the cause.
🔗 Common Food Allergens in Dogs
🔗 Best Diets for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
3. Eating Something They Shouldn’t
Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn’t—table scraps, spoiled food, garbage, or even non-food items like socks and toys.
🔗 Dangerous Foods for Dogs
🔗 Signs Your Dog Ate Something Toxic
4. Bacterial or Viral Infections
Bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, or viruses like parvovirus, can cause severe diarrhea. Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are at higher risk.
🔗 Symptoms of Parvovirus in Dogs
🔗 How Dogs Get Bacterial Infections
5. Parasites (Worms & Protozoa)
Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, giardia, and coccidia can cause chronic diarrhea. Puppies and dogs in shelters are more vulnerable.
🔗 Common Dog Parasites and How to Treat Them
🔗 Signs Your Dog Has Worms
6. Stress or Anxiety
Dogs can experience stress-induced diarrhea due to changes in routine, travel, new environments, or loud noises.
🔗 How Stress Affects Your Dog’s Digestive System
🔗 Calming Solutions for Anxious Dogs
7. Antibiotics or Medications
Certain medications, especially antibiotics, can disrupt gut bacteria and lead to diarrhea.
🔗 Side Effects of Common Dog Medications
🔗 How Probiotics Help Dogs on Antibiotics
8. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IBD is a chronic condition where the intestines become inflamed, leading to diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss.
🔗 What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Dogs?
🔗 Best Diets for Dogs with IBD
9. Liver or Kidney Disease
Diseases affecting the liver or kidneys can cause digestive problems, including diarrhea.
🔗 Signs of Liver Disease in Dogs
🔗 How Kidney Disease Affects Digestion
10. Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas, often triggered by fatty foods, can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
🔗 Symptoms of Pancreatitis in Dogs
🔗 Best Diet for Dogs with Pancreatitis
How to Treat Dog Diarrhea at Home
✅ Fast for 12-24 Hours
Giving your dog’s digestive system a break can help. Offer small amounts of water but withhold food temporarily.
🔗 When to Fast a Dog with Diarrhea
✅ Feed a Bland Diet
After fasting, introduce boiled chicken and white rice or plain pumpkin to soothe the stomach.
🔗 Best Foods for Dogs with Upset Stomachs
✅ Use Probiotics
Probiotics help restore healthy gut bacteria and improve digestion.
✅ Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Diarrhea causes dehydration, so encourage water intake or offer electrolyte solutions.
🔗 How to Keep a Dehydrated Dog Hydrated
When to Call the Vet
If your dog has any of the following symptoms, seek veterinary care:
- Diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours
- Blood in stool (red or black)
- Vomiting along with diarrhea
- Lethargy, fever, or weakness
- Signs of dehydration (sunken eyes, dry gums, excessive panting)
🔗 When to Worry About Dog Diarrhea
🔗 How Vets Diagnose and Treat Chronic Diarrhea
Dog diarrhea is common but not always harmless. While mild cases resolve with home care, persistent or severe diarrhea could indicate a bigger problem. Identifying the cause and taking the right steps will help your pup feel better fast.
If in doubt, always consult your vet. A healthy, happy dog starts with a well-balanced digestive system!
Want more pet health tips? Stay tuned for more expert advice.
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