Diarrhoea in Dogs and Puppies

Diarrhoea in Dogs and Puppies: Common Causes and How to Help

It’s always distressing when your dog or puppy has an upset stomach — especially when you’re unsure of the cause. Diarrhoea in dogs is common and can happen at any stage of life. While often not serious, it’s important to understand the potential causes so you can manage symptoms effectively and know when to seek veterinary advice.

Below, we explore the most common causes of diarrhoea in dogs and puppies, along with practical tips on how to treat it at home and when to contact your vet.

Most Common Causes of Diarrhoea in Dogs

1. Overfeeding

One of the most overlooked causes of loose stools in dogs is overfeeding. Feeding too much food in one go can overwhelm the digestive system, especially in young puppies with sensitive stomachs. When the gut can’t properly absorb nutrients, it simply expels the excess — resulting in diarrhoea.

Tip: Feed based on your dog’s weight and age, introducing new food quantities gradually.

2. Scavenging

Dogs are natural foragers, and many won’t hesitate to eat something unsavoury on a walk or out of the kitchen bin. Unfortunately, this can lead to upset stomachs or more serious problems if they ingest harmful bacteria or spoiled food.

Tip: Teach a reliable “leave it” command and ensure bins are secured or out of reach.

3. Human Food Scraps

Although it’s tempting to treat your dog with leftovers, fatty or rich human foods can wreak havoc on their digestive system. Foods high in fat, spices, or artificial ingredients are not suitable for dogs and can quickly lead to diarrhoea.

Tip: If you want to offer titbits, opt for plain, cooked meats, vegetables or fruits — in moderation.

4. Parasites and Worms

Dogs and puppies can pick up intestinal parasites from infected faeces or contaminated environments. Worms such as roundworms, hookworms or giardia can cause digestive upset and need veterinary treatment.

Tip: Keep your dog’s worming treatments up to date and prevent access to faeces from other animals during walks.

5. Stress and Anxiety

Environmental stressors like moving house, travelling, vet visits or a puppy entering a new home can trigger stomach issues. Stress affects digestion, often leading to loose stools or changes in appetite.

Tip: Help your dog settle by offering a calm, consistent environment and sticking to one food until they are comfortable.

6. Exercise-Induced Diarrhoea

Has your dog ever passed looser stools after an energetic walk or play session? Physical activity can stimulate the bowels and lead to slightly softer stools.

Tip: This is usually nothing to worry about unless the diarrhoea is severe or persistent. Make sure your dog is well hydrated and monitor their stools after vigorous exercise.

When to Contact the Vet

Most cases of mild diarrhoea can be managed at home by removing food for 12–24 hours (never withhold water) and then reintroducing a bland diet such as boiled chicken and rice. However, you should speak to a vet if your dog:

• Has diarrhoea for more than 48 hours
• Is a young puppy showing signs of dehydration or weakness
• Shows vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite
• Passes black, tar-like stools or bright red blood
• Appears to have abdominal pain, bloating, or panting
• Has pale gums or signs of distress

If in doubt, it’s always best to contact your vet for professional advice — especially with puppies or older dogs who may be more vulnerable.

Final Thoughts

While dog diarrhoea is unpleasant, it’s often a short-lived issue that can be managed with a few simple changes. Understanding the cause is key to treating it quickly and effectively. Stick to high-quality, natural dog food, avoid unnecessary treats, and monitor your dog’s health closely. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to get help from your vet.

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