My dog has diarrhea: what to do and when to see a vet
What to do if your dog has diarrhea, the most common causes and the warning signs, such as blood, vomiting or lethargy, that mean you should see a vet now.
Diarrhea isn’t a disease but a sign that something is going on. It is often mild and clears up on its own, but it can also be the first sign of something serious. This guide is based on information from VCA animal hospitals. It doesn’t replace your vet.
See a vet right away if…
- There is blood in it or there is a lot of it.
- Your dog is also vomiting, lethargic, not eating or has a fever.
- It’s a puppy or a senior dog, or has a health condition.
- You think they may have eaten something toxic.
- They aren’t fully vaccinated. Diarrhea is one of the first signs of parvovirus, which can be very serious.
If they are otherwise fine
- Make sure they always have water. Diarrhea dehydrates dogs quickly.
- Don’t give human medicines or probiotics without asking your vet first.
- If liquid or semi-liquid stools last more than 2 days, see your vet. That is the timeframe VCA gives.
- Your vet may suggest a short fast or a gastrointestinal diet. Once stools are back to normal, you usually move back to their regular food gradually over 7 to 10 days.
Common causes
- Eating something they shouldn’t: rubbish, scraps or spoiled food.
- A sudden change of food.
- Intestinal parasites, bacteria or viruses.
- Stress: a trip, a kennel stay or a change at home.
- Toxic plants or products.
What to bring to the vet
Your vet will ask when it started, how often it happens, what it looks like and whether anything changed in their food or at home. Bring a fresh stool sample if asked and, if you can, a photo.
In Miloop you log deworming and treatments, and get a PDF of their history to show your vet.