Dear VetBabble: My Dog’s Persistent Diarrhea – What Could Be the Issue?
Hi there, I have an issue with my dog. She has been having diarrhea since Wednesday, and it is now Friday. She has been going to the bathroom every hour or two. She is still eating a small amount and drinking lots of water. Do you know what the issue might be? Is there anything I could do to help her? Thanks!
As a friendly and informative veterinarian, I understand that it’s worrying when our furry friends are not feeling their best. Prolonged diarrhea in dogs can be a concerning issue, so let’s get into the possible causes, when to worry, and how to help your dog.
Possible Causes of Your Dog’s Diarrhea
Long-lasting diarrhea can be a vague symptom that may be caused by a variety of factors. Some common causes include parasites, infections, viral illnesses, and digestive upset. I suggest reading our article, Why Does My Dog Have Diarrhea?, to get more information about these potential causes.
Although a bland meal of boiled rice and chicken may help alleviate some minor gastrointestinal (GI) upsets, it is essential to understand the root cause of the problem. Since your dog’s diarrhea has been ongoing for a few days now, it’s time to consult with your veterinarian.
When to Worry and Seek Veterinary Help
Knowing when to worry about your dog’s diarrhea is crucial; our article Diarrhea in Dogs: When to Worry can provide you with more guidance on this matter. In your dog’s case, given that the problem has been persistent for more than 48 hours, it’s time to bring her to your vet for a complete examination.
It’s also a good idea to bring a stool sample with you to the exam, as it can be tested for common parasites and GI issues. This will enable your vet to figure out the problem more quickly. One possible issue that might be affecting your dog is Coccidia, a common cause of diarrhea among dogs and puppies. Learn more about this condition and its treatment in our article, Coccidia in Dogs and Puppies: What It Is and How to Treat It.
How to Help Your Dog and Prevent Future Issues
For more general information on vomiting and diarrhea in dogs, including potential causes and treatment options, be sure to read our article, Vomiting in Dogs: Causes, Treatment & When to Worry. In the meantime, make sure your dog stays hydrated and follows any advice given to you by your veterinarian.
To help prevent future issues with diarrhea, consider these tips:
- Ensure your dog has a balanced diet and avoids unfamiliar foods
- Keep your dog’s environment clean and free of parasites
- Monitor your dog’s overall health and behavior and seek veterinary care when necessary
As pet owners, our primary goal is to keep our furry friends healthy and happy. Hopefully, by identifying the exact cause of your dog’s diarrhea and following the proper treatments, she will be back to her normal self in no time. Remember, consulting your veterinarian is always the best course of action when it comes to your pet’s health.
