Diarrhea in dogs - What helps

Why does my dog ​​have diarrhea?

There are several potential causes of diarrhea in dogs. It can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as food intolerances, infections, parasites, or stress.

Diarrhea in dogs is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. This blog post explores the various possible causes, what you can do, and when it's time to see a veterinarian.

Possible causes of dog diarrhea

1. Dietary causes

• Food change : A sudden change in dog food can upset your dog's gastrointestinal tract.
• Intolerances : Some dogs have specific intolerances or allergies to certain ingredients.
• Human food : Food from the table, especially fatty or spicy foods, can cause diarrhea.

2. Infections

• Bacterial infections : Salmonella, E. coli and other bacteria can cause gastrointestinal problems.
• Viruses : Parvovirus and other viruses can cause serious diarrheal diseases.
• Parasites : Worms, Giardia and other parasites can be the cause.

3. Medications
Some medications, especially antibiotics, can cause diarrhea as a side effect.

4. Stress
Stressful factors such as moving, major changes in routine, or new pets can also lead to gastrointestinal problems.

5. Diseases

• Chronic diseases : Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or pancreatitis can lead to persistent diarrhea.
• Organ diseases : Liver or kidney diseases can also have diarrhea as a symptom.

What can you do?

1. Fasting
Don't give your dog anything to eat for 12 to 24 hours to give his gastrointestinal tract a break. However, make sure fresh water is always available.

2. Light diet
After the fasting period, you can offer your dog a light diet. Cooked rice, cooked carrots, and cooked chicken without seasoning are easily digestible.

3. Probiotics
Probiotics can help restore balance to your dog's intestinal flora.

4. Hydration
Make sure your dog drinks enough to avoid dehydration.

When should you go to the vet?

Not all diarrhea is a cause for concern, but some signs should prompt you to see a veterinarian immediately:

• Blood in the stool : This may indicate a serious condition.
• Persistent diarrhea : If diarrhea lasts longer than 48 hours.
• Lethargy : An apathetic dog could be a sign of a more serious condition.
• Vomiting : In combination with diarrhea, this can quickly lead to dehydration.
• Pain : If your dog appears to be in pain, this could be an indication of a more serious cause.

Conclusion
Diarrhea in dogs can have many causes, from a simple change in diet to serious health problems. However, a prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment by a veterinarian can play a crucial role in helping your dog recover quickly. Always pay attention to your dog's behavior.

Legal Notice:

This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for a visit to your veterinarian. If you have any health concerns or questions, please contact a qualified veterinary practice.

Source: Martina Hemm May 2025