Understanding Dog Diseases That Cause Diarrhea in Dogs

Diarrhea in dogs can be a real concern for pet owners, and it's often a symptom of an underlying disease.

Gastrointestinal foreign bodies, such as swallowed objects, can cause diarrhea in dogs, as seen in the case of a dog that ingested a sock.

Parvovirus, a highly contagious virus, is a common cause of diarrhea in dogs, especially in puppies and unvaccinated dogs.

Inflammatory bowel disease, a chronic condition, can lead to persistent diarrhea in dogs, as described in the article section on "Chronic Diarrhea in Dogs."

Dogs of any age can be susceptible to bacterial, viral, or even fungal infections that cause diarrhea. These infections can be serious, especially in young puppies whose immune systems are still developing.

Some common causes of diarrhea in dogs include eating spoiled food or garbage, ingesting poisons or toxins, and anxiety or stress. In fact, even a simple change in treats, food, or diet can cause sudden diarrhea in dogs.

See what others are reading: Ear Infections

Here are some potential causes of diarrhea in dogs:

It's also possible that your dog's diarrhea is caused by a reaction or allergy to a substance, a bacterial or viral infection, parasites, or even tumors in the digestive area.

Infections can be a major cause of diarrhea in dogs. Young puppies are particularly vulnerable to viral infections like Parvovirus, which can be fatal if left untreated.

Dogs of any age can contract bacterial, viral, or even fungal infections, depending on their geographic location. These infections can cause severe gastrointestinal problems.

Intestinal parasites like worms, coccidia, or Giardia are very common in dogs and can cause diarrhea if left untreated. Fortunately, most parasites respond well to treatment.

For another approach, see: Parasites in Dogs That Cause Diarrhea

Sudden diarrhea in dogs can be caused by eating spoiled food or garbage. It's a good idea to keep a close eye on your dog's eating habits and make sure they're not getting into anything they shouldn't.

Eating spoiled food or garbage is just one of the many potential causes of sudden diarrhea in dogs. Ingesting poisons or toxins is another, and it's always better to err on the side of caution if you suspect your dog has gotten into something toxic.

Anxiety or stress can also cause sudden diarrhea in dogs. If you notice your dog is acting anxious or stressed, it may be worth trying to reduce their stress levels to see if it helps alleviate the diarrhea.

Some common culprits behind sudden diarrhea in dogs include change in treats, food or diet, and ingesting foreign objects such as bones, fabric and toys. These can all cause a sudden onset of diarrhea, and it's a good idea to keep a close eye on your dog's behavior and environment to prevent these issues.

Here are some potential causes of sudden diarrhea in dogs, grouped by category:

Diagnosing dog diarrhea can be a complex process, but understanding the symptoms and diagnostic steps can help you prepare for a visit to the vet.

Vomiting and diarrhea are non-specific symptoms that can be associated with many different health issues. They're not diagnoses in and of themselves, but rather a sign that something's amiss.

A dog's history is a crucial part of the diagnostic process. Your vet will ask questions about your dog's symptoms, what they might have been exposed to, and any changes in their diet or environment.

A physical exam is also essential, covering everything from a dog's temperature to their hydration levels and gland/lymph nodes. This provides valuable information about a dog's overall health and helps guide the diagnostic testing plan.

Common diagnostic tests for stomach issues in dogs include fecal/stool checks for parasites, bloodwork, urine analysis, X-rays, and ultrasound. Your vet will create a customized plan based on the most likely conditions your pup may have.

Here are some common symptoms of gastroenteritis in dogs:

A packed cell volume (PCV) test can be helpful in diagnosing HGE. It measures the percentage of blood volume made up by red blood cells, which is usually high in dogs with HGE.

Treatment for dog diarrhea varies depending on the underlying cause, but supportive care is usually needed to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Supportive care may include anti-nausea medications, antacids, and medicines to relieve diarrhea.

If your dog has mild digestive symptoms and is otherwise healthy, you can try a few simple home treatments for a day or two, such as a bland diet of plain chicken and rice.

Always keep plenty of water available to keep your pup hydrated.

Allowing your dog to rest can also help their digestive system recover.

Consider adding probiotics formulated for pets to help support their digestive health.

However, witholding food for too long can be risky for some dogs, so it's best to check with your vet first.

Additional reading: Dog Diseases and Symptoms

A high-quality, healthy diet and parasite preventive medications may help prevent Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis (HGE) in dogs.

Here are some common supportive care treatments:

In severe cases of HGE, aggressive fluid replacement with intravenous fluids is necessary to prevent life-threatening complications.

If your dog is experiencing diarrhea, it's essential to know when to visit a vet. Puppies and senior dogs are more susceptible to dehydration and serious underlying causes, so even a single episode of diarrhea can be a cause for concern.

If your dog is vomiting or has severe diarrhea, it's a good idea to seek veterinary care. Bloody, black, or mucousy diarrhea can also indicate a more serious problem, such as gastrointestinal irritation or ulceration.

If your dog is experiencing persistent diarrhea that lasts for 24 to 48 hours, it's time to schedule a vet appointment. Additionally, if your dog is showing signs of dehydration, such as sunken eyes, a dry nose, or dry, sticky gums, it's crucial to seek veterinary care.

On a similar theme: Veteran Dog Treats

Here are some specific situations that warrant a vet visit: