Dog Diarrhea: Common Causes

Dog diarrhea is one of the most frequent reasons pet owners bring their pets to the veterinarian. While occasional digestive upset can happen, ongoing or severe diarrhea is often a sign of an underlying issue that needs attention. Dog diarrhea can result from simple dietary changes, food intolerance, or exposure to something in the environment. It can also indicate infections, parasites, or more serious medical conditions. This blog will help you understand the most common causes of dog diarrhea and recognize when it may be time to seek veterinary care at Schertz Animal Hospital.

 

 

Why Does My Dog Have Diarrhea?

Dog diarrhea occurs when the digestive system becomes irritated, leading to loose or watery stools. This irritation can come from something as minor as eating too much table food or as serious as a gastrointestinal infection. Because there are so many potential causes, it is important to pay attention to frequency, duration, and any other symptoms your pet may show.

Dog diarrhea can be temporary, lasting only a day, or it can persist for weeks. In some cases, the stool may contain mucus or blood, or it may appear unusually dark. These details provide valuable information to your veterinarian about what could be going on internally.

Dietary Causes of Dog Diarrhea

Diet is one of the most common reasons dogs experience diarrhea. Many cases stem from something they ate that does not agree with their stomachs.

Sudden Food Changes

Switching your dog’s food too quickly is a leading cause of dog diarrhea. Dogs need time to adjust to new diets. When food changes happen abruptly, the digestive system can become overwhelmed, resulting in loose stools.

Food Intolerance or Sensitivity

Just like people, dogs can have intolerances to certain ingredients. Dairy products, high-fat foods, or specific proteins may trigger diarrhea. Ongoing dog diarrhea that appears after eating a particular type of food could indicate an intolerance.

Dietary Indiscretion

Dogs are curious by nature and often eat things they should not. Garbage, spoiled food, or even items picked up during a walk can upset the stomach and cause dog diarrhea.

Parasites and Dog Diarrhea

Parasites are another frequent cause of dog diarrhea. They are especially common in puppies but can affect dogs of any age.

Intestinal Worms

Roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms can live in the intestines and lead to diarrhea. These parasites may cause weight loss, a poor coat condition, and a bloated appearance in addition to digestive upset.

Protozoa

Organisms like Giardia and Coccidia are microscopic parasites that often cause watery or greasy diarrhea in dogs. These parasites spread easily through contaminated water or environments and are particularly common in kennels, shelters, or dog parks.

Infections That Lead to Dog Diarrhea

Bacterial and viral infections can affect the digestive tract, leading to diarrhea in dogs.

Bacterial Infections

Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter are bacteria that can upset a dog’s digestive system. These infections may develop after exposure to contaminated food, raw meat, or unclean environments. Along with diarrhea, a dog may show lethargy, vomiting, or fever.

Viral Infections

Viruses such as parvovirus and coronavirus can cause severe, sometimes life-threatening diarrhea. Puppies are particularly vulnerable to these illnesses. Vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs against certain viral infections.

Stress and Dog Diarrhea

Stress can affect the digestive system just as much as physical illness. Dogs may experience diarrhea during times of change, such as moving homes, traveling, or when a new pet joins the household. Stress-related dog diarrhea often resolves once the dog adjusts, but it may also require support from your veterinarian if it becomes prolonged.

Medical Conditions That Cause Dog Diarrhea

Sometimes, diarrhea signals an underlying medical condition rather than a temporary upset.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD causes chronic inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to recurring episodes of dog diarrhea. This condition often requires long-term management under veterinary care.

Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas can interfere with digestion and result in diarrhea. Dogs with pancreatitis may also vomit, lose their appetite, and show signs of abdominal discomfort.

Organ Disease

Conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, or thyroid can cause diarrhea as part of a broader set of symptoms. In these cases, diarrhea may be only one clue that something more serious is affecting the dog’s health.

When Dog Diarrhea Becomes Concerning

While occasional diarrhea may not always signal a major problem, certain signs suggest that a veterinary visit is necessary.

• Persistent diarrhea lasting more than a couple of days
• Diarrhea accompanied by vomiting, fever, or lethargy
• Presence of blood, mucus, or black, tarry stools
• Severe dehydration, shown by weakness or dry gums
• Diarrhea in young puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with existing health issues

These situations can quickly become dangerous, and prompt veterinary attention is important.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Dog Diarrhea

When you bring your pet to Schertz Animal Hospital for dog diarrhea, our veterinary team will begin with a detailed history and physical exam. They may ask about your dog’s diet, recent activities, and any other symptoms you have noticed.

Diagnostic Testing

Veterinarians may run stool tests to check for parasites, bacteria, or viruses. Blood tests and imaging, such as X-rays or ultrasounds, may also be used to rule out organ issues or obstructions. By identifying the underlying cause, the veterinarian can recommend the best treatment plan.

How to Help Prevent Dog Diarrhea

Although some causes of dog diarrhea cannot be prevented, there are steps pet owners can take to reduce the risk.

• Provide a Consistent Diet: Feeding a high-quality diet and avoiding sudden food changes can help support digestive health. If you need to transition to a new food, doing it gradually over a week or more allows the stomach to adjust.
• Limit Unsafe Foods and Objects: Avoid giving table scraps and keep garbage, chemicals, and small objects out of reach. Dogs are less likely to develop diarrhea if they are not exposed to unsafe foods or environments.
• Regular Veterinary Care: Routine wellness visits help detect issues early and provide opportunities to discuss your pet’s digestive health. Parasite prevention and vaccinations also play a key role in lowering the risk of infections that can lead to dog diarrhea.

Maintaining Your Dog’s Health at Schertz Animal Hospital

Dog diarrhea can range from a short-lived upset stomach to a symptom of something more serious. Paying attention to changes in your dog’s stool, behavior, and overall health helps determine when to seek professional help. At Schertz Animal Hospital, our team provides thorough evaluations and compassionate care to address the cause of your dog’s diarrhea. If your dog is experiencing diarrhea, request an appointment online or call us at (210) 659-0345 to schedule a visit.