Diarrhea is a common problem in dogs, but it can also be a sign of much more serious health problems. If you’re worried about your fur kid’s loose stools, the following questions will help you figure out if it’s time to take him to the vet.
1. How Often Does It Happen?
The occasional loose stool isn’t a problem, but frequent loose stools may indicate a food allergy or other digestive issue. If you think your dog is passing more loose stools than usual, consider taking notes on his bowel movements and what he eats each day. This will help you spot potential patterns and can help your vet diagnose the problem too.
2. How Long Has It Been Going On?
A bout of diarrhea that resolves itself in a few hours isn’t a big deal. The longer it goes on, though, the higher the risk of dehydration and other serious problems becomes. If your dog has been passing loose stools for more than 48 hours, it’s a good idea to have him checked out by a professional.
3. What Colour Is It?
Loose stools come in all sorts of colours, but only two are really a cause for concern. Red, bloody stools and black, tarry stools are both warning signs of severe issue spike bowel cancer. Take your dog to the vet immediately if you notice these colours in his stools. It may be nothing, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
4. Is He Vomiting Too?
Diarrhea is much more likely to become a problem when it’s accompanied by vomiting. Between the two symptoms, your dog will have trouble processing all of the nutrients and fluids he needs to stay healthy. Watch your dog carefully for signs of dehydration and be prepared to bring him to the vet for emergency fluids if needed.
5. Is He Generally Unwell?
Dogs tend to hide signs of illness from their caretakers, so dogs that look visibly sick during a bout of diarrhea may have something more serious going on. Look for behavioral changes like lethargy as well as physical signs like a fever. You know your dog best – if he doesn’t seem like himself, it may be worth getting him checked out.
Bulk Up Your Dog’s Loose Stools with Premium Pet Food and Supplements
Your dog’s diarrhea may not be severe enough to need medical attention, but it’s still worth doing everything you can to help him feel better. All the wet, dry, and raw dog foods we stock are formulated with the right balance of nutrients to improve your dog’s digestive health. We also carry a wide selection of fibre supplements that can help your dog’s stools pass more easily. Stop by today and talk to one of our friendly employees to learn more!
