Why Do Dogs Get Diarrhea?

Diarrhea is a common ailment that plagues many dog owners at some point. While often inconvenient and messy, it’s usually a treatable condition. But many pup parents wonder, “Why do dogs get diarrhea in the first place?” 

The causes of canine diarrhea can range from simple dietary indiscretions to more serious underlying health issues. Understanding the potential culprits behind your fur baby’s upset stomach can help you determine when it’s time to seek veterinary care and how to prevent future episodes.

What Is Dog Diarrhea?

Like people, our pups can experience an upset GI tract that results in loose or liquid stools. Dog diarrhea is not a disease itself but rather a symptom of a variety of diseases or health conditions. 

Diarrhea is quite common in dogs and can be caused by a variety of things. In order to properly treat diarrhea, your veterinarian must first find the underlying cause. 

Types of Dog Diarrhea

While dealing with your dog’s diarrhea can be… an unpleasant mess, it’s essential to offer accurate information to your veterinarian. To accurately diagnose the cause, vets categorize diarrhea into four primary types:

Osmotic diarrhea

This occurs when excess water rushes into the intestines, creating watery stools. Common culprits include rich foods or lactose intolerance.

Secretory diarrhea

Produced by excessive fluid secretion in the intestines, it’s often linked to bacterial or viral infections.

Exudative diarrhea

Indicated by mucus or blood in the stool, this type suggests inflammation or damage to the intestinal lining.

Rapid intestinal transit diarrhea

Caused by overly active colon muscles, this results in frequent, watery bowel movements.

By recognizing these categories and observing your dog’s symptoms, you can provide crucial details to your vet, aiding in a swift diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Causes of Diarrhea in Dogs

Dog diarrhea can stem from a variety of issues. Here are some common culprits:

• Dietary indiscretion: Consuming human food, garbage, or other inappropriate items can upset a dog’s stomach.
• Toxins: Ingestion of harmful substances like chocolate, alcohol, or certain household products can lead to diarrhea.
• Foreign bodies: Dogs that swallow objects such as rocks or toys may experience digestive problems.
• Dietary changes: Switching dog food abruptly can trigger intestinal upset.
• Parasites: Internal parasites like worms or giardia can cause diarrhea and other symptoms.
• Infections: Bacterial or viral infections, such as parvovirus or salmonella, can lead to severe diarrhea.
• Allergies: While primarily associated with skin issues, food allergies can sometimes contribute to diarrhea.
• Underlying health conditions: Diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, cancer, kidney or liver disease can cause chronic or recurrent diarrhea.
• Medications: Certain drugs can have diarrhea as a side effect.
• Stress: Emotional stress can impact a dog’s digestive system.

If your dog’s diarrhea persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Treating Dog Diarrhea

Treatment for your dog’s diarrhea depends on the underlying cause. Potential treatments include:

Withholding Food

In cases of dietary indiscretion, withholding food for 12 to 24 hours can allow the intestine to calm down. Your vet may also recommend you feed a bland diet of chicken and rice for 24 to 48 hours. 

Fluid Therapy

Diarrhea can quickly dehydrate a dog, causing electrolyte imbalances. Your veterinarian may decide your pup would benefit from fluid therapy if he or she has had diarrhea for an extended period of time. 

Antibiotics / Antiparasitics

If the diarrhea is thought to be caused by a bacterial infection, an antibiotic may be prescribed. Similarly, if the loose stools have been caused by a parasitic infection, your vet will prescribe an antiparasitic. 

Diet Change

If your dog’s diarrhea has been caused by a food allergy or sensitivity, your vet will recommend a good diet to help control their symptoms.

Monoclonal Antibody Treatment

Puppies with the parvovirus will typically be treated with a monoclonal antibody treatment plan. 

When Should You See the Vet?

Often a dog will have a mild case of loose stools but seem otherwise healthy and happy and you can likely monitor their condition at home. And usually the mysterious diarrhea will resolve on its own.

However, you should absolutely seek veterinary care if your dog’s diarrhea doesn’t clear within 24 to 48 hours, or if it occurs intermittently for several days. 

Also seek emergency care if:

• You know or suspect your dog has ingested a toxin.
• You know or suspect your dog has eaten a foreign body.
• Your dog has other symptoms such as:
  • Lethargy
  • Decreased appetite
  • Fever
  • Belly pain
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal distention (swelling)
• Your dog is a puppy or senior.
• Your dog has a pre-existing health condition.

Final Thoughts

Why do dogs get diarrhea? As you can see, the causes of canine diarrhea are diverse and can range from minor dietary indiscretions to serious underlying health issues. While occasional diarrhea might resolve on its own, persistent or severe symptoms warrant a veterinary visit. Understanding the potential causes can help dog owners recognize when professional care is necessary and take preventative measures to protect their furry friends’ digestive health.

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References:

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-diarrhea/

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/diarrhea-in-dogs

https://www.petmd.com/dog/symptoms/puppy-diarrhea

Disclaimer

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.