15 Common Causes of Diarrhea in Dogs

15 Common Causes of Diarrhea in Dogs and How to Stop It

Diarrhea is a common problem in dogs, and as a dog owner, you've likely experienced it at some point. It's not only unpleasant for your furry friend, but it can also be a sign of a more serious underlying issue. In this article, we'll explore the 15 common causes of diarrhea in dogs and how to stop it.

Causes of Diarrhea in Dogs

Dietary indiscretion

Dietary indiscretion, or eating something that doesn't agree with your dog's digestive system, is one of the most common causes of diarrhea in dogs. This can include eating table scraps, garbage, or even a sudden change in diet. To prevent this, make sure your dog's food is appropriate for their age, breed, and health condition. Also, avoid giving them table scraps or other human food that can upset their stomach.

Food allergies

Food allergies are another common cause of diarrhea in dogs. Dogs can develop allergies to certain ingredients in their food, such as grains or proteins like chicken, beef, or fish. If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, talk to your veterinarian about switching to a hypoallergenic diet.

Stress

Just like humans, dogs can experience stress, which can lead to diarrhea. Stressful situations like travel, moving to a new home, or even a change in routine can cause your dog to become anxious, leading to diarrhea. Try to keep your dog's routine as consistent as possible and provide plenty of exercise and playtime to reduce stress.

Infections

Infections can also cause diarrhea in dogs. Bacterial infections like Salmonella or E. coli can be picked up from contaminated food or water, while viral infections like Parvovirus can be more serious and require immediate medical attention.

Intestinal parasites

Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and giardia can cause diarrhea in dogs. These parasites are often picked up from contaminated soil or feces, so be sure to keep your dog's environment clean and hygienic.

Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. This can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. While there is no cure for IBD, it can be managed through medication and dietary changes.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a condition that occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed. This can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. Treatment for pancreatitis typically involves hospitalization and IV fluids.

Medications

Certain medications can also cause diarrhea in dogs, such as antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and heart medications. If your dog is on medication and experiencing diarrhea, talk to your veterinarian about adjusting the dosage or switching to a different medication.

Poisoning

Poisoning can also cause diarrhea in dogs. This can include ingesting toxic plants or chemicals like pesticides or cleaning products. If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, seek immediate veterinary attention.

Liver or kidney disease

Liver or kidney disease can also cause diarrhea in dogs. These conditions can cause a range of symptoms, including lethargy, vomiting, and loss of appetite, so it's important to seek veterinary attention if you suspect your dog is ill.

Cancer

While less common, cancer can also cause diarrhea in dogs. If your dog has diarrhea that doesn't resolve within a few days or is accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, it's important to talk to your veterinarian.

Intestinal parasites:

Intestinal parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, and giardia, are common in dogs and can cause diarrhea. These parasites can enter a dog's system through contaminated food, water, or feces. Symptoms of intestinal parasites include diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and poor coat condition. A veterinarian can diagnose intestinal parasites through a fecal exam and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Stress:

Just like humans, dogs can experience stress, which can lead to diarrhea. Changes in routine, such as traveling or moving to a new home, can cause stress in dogs. Additionally, anxiety, such as separation anxiety, can cause stress and lead to diarrhea. Managing stress in dogs can help alleviate diarrhea symptoms. This can be done by creating a calm and stable environment for the dog, providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and seeking the advice of a veterinarian or professional dog behaviorist.

Food allergies or sensitivities:

Some dogs may have an allergy or sensitivity to certain foods, which can cause diarrhea. Common allergens include chicken, beef, dairy, wheat, and soy. Symptoms of food allergies or sensitivities include diarrhea, vomiting, itching, and skin rashes. A veterinarian can diagnose food allergies or sensitivities through an elimination diet or a blood test. Treatment typically involves eliminating the allergen from the dog's diet and feeding a hypoallergenic or prescription diet.