What are the causes of diarrhoea in dogs?

Scavenging

When your dog eats something that they shouldn’t – maybe from the bin or on a walk – it can lead to an upset tum and diarrhoea. Your pet may also pick up poison if they scavenge (such as rat poison) which can lead to diarrhoea and is an emergency.

Dietary changes or titbits

A sudden diet change overeating or eating treats that they aren’t used to can result in diarrhoea for your four-legged friend.

Food intolerance or hypersensitivity

Your dog may be intolerant to a specific food or ingredient which can lead to an upset tummy. It can also result in signs elsewhere such as itchy skin. 

Bowel issues

This can include inflammatory bowel disease which causes chronic inflammation of the small intestine and ongoing diarrhoea or colitis which is the inflammation of the large intestine.

Medication

Some medications (e.g. antibiotics) can change the consistency of your dog’s poo.

Blockages

Blockages such as foreign bodies can cause diarrhoea and a painful abdomen.

Stress

Stressful situations or anxiety (e.g. separation anxiety a new addition to the family or changes to the living environment) can cause the onset of diarrhoea.

Bacterial infections

These can cause serious bloody diarrhoea. Potential bacteria include Salmonella
Campylobacter and E. coli. Looking for RawSAFE approved diets can help reduce the risk of your furry friend being exposed to these bacteria in their diet.

Parasites

Intestinal parasites such as Giardia Coccidia and worms can all lead to diarrhoea.

Parvovirus

A virus which causes severe often bloody diarrhoea and can be fatal.

Exercise

This is usually self-limiting and not serious.

Diarrhoea in dogs guide.