Dear VetBabble: Why is My Dog Pooping Blood?
Hi there, thanks for reaching out with your concern about your dog, Fellow, who has been experiencing bloody stools. This is definitely a worrying issue for any pet owner, and it’s important to have an understanding of what might be causing this and what steps to take. In this article, we will provide some friendly and informative advice on scenarios similar to yours, so that other pet owners can also benefit from this knowledge.
Possible Causes for Bloody Stools in Dogs
Blood in a dog’s stool is an indication of inflammation in the colon. This can happen after multiple days of diarrhea or suddenly if the inflammation is severe. A few potential causes of bloody stools in dogs include:
- Viral infections
- Dietary indiscretion
- Intestinal parasites
- Stress
- Metabolic conditions
- Unknown causes
For a more in-depth look at these causes, please visit our article on Why Does My Dog Have Diarrhea?
What Should I Do If My Dog is Pooping Blood?
If your dog, like Fellow, is eating, drinking, feeling fine, and not vomiting, you can try starting a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken or hamburger with rice. You’ll want to feed them about 1 cup per 20 lbs until they have had 1-2 normal bowel movements. For more information about a dog’s regular bowel movements, take a look at our article on How Often Should My Dog Poop?
However, if your dog is lethargic, not eating, or vomiting, it’s crucial to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. In many cases, when dogs have blood in their stool or vomit, they are also dehydrated. They usually benefit from antibiotics and may require additional treatment. Our article, Vomiting in Dogs: Causes, Treatment & When to Worry, offers fantastic insights on this topic.
When to Be Concerned About Diarrhea in Dogs
Bloody stools in dogs can be alarming and should always be taken seriously. However, there are some cases where diarrhea may not be as concerning. To better understand when to worry about diarrhea in your dog and when it might be a more minor issue, we recommend reading our article on Diarrhea in Dogs: When to Worry.
In conclusion, if your dog is experiencing bloody stools, it’s essential to monitor their behavior, adjust their diet accordingly, and seek veterinary help when necessary. We hope this information has been both friendly and informative, providing you and other pet owners with a better understanding of how to address this issue. Good luck!
