Dog Has Diarrhea – Causes, Tips, and When It Becomes Dangerous

Every dog owner is probably familiar with this scenario: even though you’ve just been for a walk, your dog is already standing at the door, whining and restless. No sooner is he outside than he starts—and what comes out is almost impossible to catch with the bag. Oh no, the dog has diarrhea!

The causes range from “completely harmless” to “an emergency.” Since you’re bound to find yourself in this situation (again) at some point in your life as a dog owner, this article will answer all your questions on the topic: When should you head straight to the vet, what causes diarrhea, and what can you do about it? Let’s get started!

Diarrhea in Dogs – When Is It an Emergency?

First things first: If your dog has any of the following symptoms, don’t wait—see a veterinarian right away. These are serious warning signs that may indicate a serious problem:

• Blood in the stool
• severe dehydration (dry gums, skin pinch test)
• in addition to diarrhea, vomiting, fever, lethargy, and circulatory problems
• severe diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
• Suspected poisoning

Whether the animal is young or old, it’s best to play it safe and see a veterinarian right away.

Diarrhea in Dogs – What Are the Common Causes?

A change in diet or the wrong food

One of the most common causes of diarrhea in dogs is a sudden change in diet. If a dog’s food is changed too quickly—whether to a new brand, type of food, or even just a new variety—the digestive system can easily become overwhelmed. Unfamiliar or very fatty foods, as well as table scraps, can also lead to digestive problems.

Stress and anxiety

Just like in humans, stress can also affect digestion. Dogs often react sensitively to changes in their environment. Typical stress triggers include, for example

• Travel (new surroundings, long car rides, etc.)
• Visit
• New Year's Eve and noisy holidays
• Being alone

Infections (viruses, bacteria, parasites)

Infections and illnesses are also common causes of diarrhea. Giardia and worms can also cause digestive problems. Especially if your dog has a lot of contact with other dogs, he can easily become infected—and just as easily infect others.

Intolerances & Allergies

Common triggers for food intolerances include proteins (such as chicken or beef) or grains (often wheat). These intolerances or allergies can cause chronic digestive problems.

Toxins & Spoiled Food

Many dogs tend to pick up just about anything they can get their paws on while out for a walk or at other times—and unfortunately, this sometimes includes things that are absolutely unsuitable for them. This is a surefire recipe for digestive problems.

Medications 

Medications, such as antibiotics, can also significantly alter the gut flora. It may take some time for the disrupted gut to recover. 

Chronic conditions

Sometimes, recurring diarrhea can be a sign of a serious, chronic condition. Common causes in dogs include

• Problems with the pancreas
• Liver diseases
• IBD (chronic inflammation of the intestinal lining)

My dog has diarrhea – What should I do? Step-by-step first aid

1. Offer water & prevent dehydration

The most important thing when a dog has diarrhea is to make sure it stays well-hydrated. Diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in puppies or older dogs.

2. Take a break from feeding

For adult dogs, a short break from food lasting about 12 hours can be helpful to give the digestive system a rest. 

3. Feed a bland diet

After a break from eating, a bland diet can help soothe the digestive tract. Good options include cooked rice with lean chicken or turkey, or boiled potatoes. During the acute phase, it’s best to serve only small meals spread out throughout the day to avoid overloading the digestive tract.

A great recipe for diarrhea: Moro’s carrot soup, best served with nacani HAPPY POO!

Recipe for approx. 1 liter of soup:
1. Peel and chop 500 grams of carrots.
2. Simmer with 1 liter of water for about 2 hours over medium heat.
3. Puree the carrots and, if necessary, add more water until the consistency is only slightly thick.
4. Add 1 tsp salt (Himalayan salt, sea salt, or rock salt).
5. Let it cool to lukewarm and add our HAPPY POO herb blend (amount according to the dosage recommendation on the can, depending on your pet’s weight) – done! 

Cooking the carrots for a long time creates molecules that prevent intestinal bacteria from adhering to the intestinal wall. It also provides plenty of fluids and minerals and is gentle on the intestines. The beneficial ingredients in HAPPY POO further support healthy digestion.

Tip: It’s a good idea to freeze a portion of the soup! That way, you’ll always have some on hand for emergencies.

How can you prevent diarrhea in dogs?

To prevent diarrhea, you should first identify the cause of your digestive problems. In addition, managing stress and restoring a healthy gut flora—for example, through specialized gastrointestinal treatments—is advisable.

Stress Management

Stress has a direct impact on digestion. Dogs benefit from routines, quiet places to retreat to, and training to help reduce anxiety. CBD oil can be helpful in reducing stress and, in turn, relieving strain on the digestive system.

Healthy gut flora

A healthy gut flora is key to a healthy digestive system. Make sure your dog has a healthy, balanced diet and a stable gut flora. Natural herbal blends like nacani Happy Poo can also help support natural gastrointestinal functions.