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Diarrhea in Dogs and 10 Possible Factors
If you are like many pet orders you follow your dog to check on their poop. There’s nothing weird about it, it simply means you are taking an interest in your dog’s’ health.
Some of the most common causes of diarrhea in dogs include a change in diet, infection,anxiety, intestinal parasites and illness (to name a few).
In this article, we will discuss 10 common causes of diarrhea in dogs and a few ways to help treat it.
Before we begin it is important to take your dog to a veterinary if you suspect that your dog is unwell. Some of the signs may include but not limited to: eating too much or not eating enough, drink too much or not enough, lethargy, vomiting, pale gums.
Below are 10 Possible Cause of Dog Diarrhea aka the Runs
1. Dietary Changes Can Cause Diarrhea
One of the most common causes of diarrhea in dogs is a change to their diet. It’s best to make any changes slowly when introducing new food. Any change in ingredients can lead to dog diarrhea or other bowel changes. If possible switch back to their previous diet. Or find food that is compatible to their dietary requirements.
2. Bacteria and Infections
Another common cause of diarrhea in dogs is an infection. This can be caused by a variety of bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Some common infections that can cause diarrhea in dogs include salmonella, E. coli, and giardia. Treatment for an infection will depend on the type of infection, but may include antibiotics or anti-parasitic medication.
3. Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites, such as roundworms, tapeworms, and whipworms, can also cause diarrhea in dogs. These parasites can be contracted by ingesting infected feces or by coming into contact with infected animals. Treatment for intestinal parasites typically involves deworming medication.
4. Food Allergies
Just like their humans, dogs can suffer with food allergies too. The results often lead to diarrhea in dogs. Common food allergens for dogs include beef, dairy, and wheat. If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, try switching to a hypoallergenic diet or a diet with limited ingredients.
5. Stress and Anxiety
Stress can also cause diarrhea in dogs. This may be caused by changes in the dog’s environment, such as a move to a new home, or by changes in the household, such as the arrival of a new baby. To treat diarrhea caused by stress, try to minimize any changes in your dog’s environment and provide them with plenty of love and attention.
6. Antibiotics, Medication and Diarrhea in Dogs
Antibiotics can also cause diarrhea in dogs. This is because antibiotics disrupt the balance of good bacteria in the gut, allowing bad bacteria to thrive. To treat this, probiotics can be given to restore the balance of bacteria in the gut.
7. Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause a change in a dog’s bowel movement. High fat diets and other medical conditions may be a factor. A veterinary will advise on the treatment for canine . This may include rehydration, medication and a change to their diet. Such as a low-fat diet and medication to reduce inflammation.
8. Swallowing Indigestible Items
Some dogs chew the strangest things. This is especially common in the puppy stage. But many items will cause a blockage and if left unchecked can be serious and even fatal. If you suspect your dog has swallowed a toy, socks or anything that is making him sick in any way then call your vet.
9. Colitis, Cancer, and Other Illness Diarrhea in Dog
Colitis is an inflammation of the colon and may be a factor when it comes to a canine diarrhea. This may be caused by a variety of conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or a bacterial infection. In addition to colitis you want to rule out cancer, liver disease and other illness that may contribute to a dog diarrhea.
10. Ingesting Something Poisonous
Some dogs love to scavenge. But there are certain foods, plants and substances that are poisonous for dogs. So, if you suspect your dog has eaten something that is making him sick take him to a vet immediately.
Home Remedies for Diarrhea in Dogs
If you make any changes to your dogs diet it’s important to do it gradually. This will help your dog to adjust while reducing the chance of upsetting his digestive system. In addition to taking it slow below is a few home remedies to help with dog diarrhea.
After a fast, its best to introduce simple foods slowly. Many dog owners start with foods that act as binders, which can help normalize stool consistency. Below is some tried-and-true methods including:
- Plain white rice
- Rice water: Boil high-quality rice in a lot of water. Remove the rice grains, and offer the dog the creamy white rice water that’s left. A splash of broth or teaspoon of baby food will make it more palatable.
Pumpkin (100% pumpkin puree from the grocery store, pet-safe pumpkin powder, or a pet-specific canned pumpkin for dogs) has the odd distinction of being effective both for diarrhea and for dog constipation.
If you purchase canned pumpkin in a grocery store, be sure to read the label to be sure it’s 100% pumpkin and not “pumpkin pie filling”. The pie filling is full of ingredients such as sugar and other ingredients to be avoided.
- Plain yogurt with active cultures can help dogs who can tolerate milk and milk products.
- Probiotics to promote live bacteria that aid digestion (these are also found in yogurt)
- Boiled potatoes without skin
- Cottage cheese
- Plain Eggs or Chicken – protein sources prepared with no butter or oil or chicken (without skin)
- Herbs, such as fennel, may have gut-soothing properties
Specially-formulated dog foods
Some manufacturers offer sensitive stomach dog foods that can soothe stomach problems. You may need to obtain some of these from your vet.
Over-the-counter medications for humans may also be effective for doggie diarrhea. However, this should be given with caution. And only after consulting with your vet before using them.
Methods that work for one dog may not help another, so you might need to do a little experimentation to find the right formula. Take notes about what works and what doesn’t so you’ll know what to do the next time your dog has an upset.
Concluding Diarrhea in Dogs and the Possible Causes
Just like their humans dogs may suffer with food sensitivities, and other issues. In addition to food, it’s important to provide your dog with healthy treats (0r dog chews)to manage their weight and ease any health issues.
When things just don’t seem right and you notice the subtle signs that something is wrong. Listen to your instincts and if you think you need veterinary guidance, pick up the phone right away.
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