Our Blog

My Puppy Has Diarrhea, What Should I Do?

September 22, 2021

If you own a dog, you must be well versed with all of the common diseases that they could have. One of these is diarrhoea, which can be a recurrent issue for puppies. Although mild cases of diarrhea can be treated at home easily, the more severe causes of diarrhea could be fatal for your dog. Hence, it is necessary to notice the symptoms and immediately consult a veterinarian. In many cases, diarrhea can point to conditions that are life-threatening for puppies. 

Why do puppies get diarrhea?

  • Viruses and Infections: When your puppy is very young, its immune system is not entirely developed and this means that they are much more susceptible to bacterial and viral infections. Parvovirus and distemper virus can cause diarrhea in small puppies. In many cases, there's a good chance that you'll notice additional symptoms like fever, lethargy, and lack of appetite.
  • Parasites: When a pup is born, it may naturally acquire some intestinal parasites  from its mother. Examples of these are roundworms and giardia. In most cases, they pick these parasites from groundwater when they are roaming outside the house. However, these parasites can usually be treated easily with some specific medicines. If not treated, diarrhea in puppies can indeed be life threatening.
  • Diet: Most puppies do not have a developed digestive system in their early days. Hence, they may face difficulty in completely digesting some kinds of food. In fact, they will also respond poorly to a quick change in diet. Additionally, puppies are pretty curious about different foods and may ingest almost anything they find interesting. As a dog owner, you must be observant as to what your pup is eating daily.
  • Stress: Stress can be a possible cause of diarrhea in puppies. They might feel stressed from a change of environment (e.g. pet shop to home) or owners. You can help your puppy overcome stress by coming up with a routine, and keeping the environment stress-free. Regular feedings and exercise are also necessary aspects to keep your pup stress-free. Furthermore, they crave attention, so give them lots of love daily.


How to treat puppy diarrhea

Although milder cases of diarrhea can be easily treated at home, it's always better to consult a vet. If your puppy is still feeling well but has diarrhea, home remedies or over-the-counter pet shop remedies may potentially work. Moreover, you must ensure that water is always available for your pup. Dehydration is a common occurrence in puppies. If your puppy is reluctant to drink, offer it ice cubes to lick so that some amount of hydration is there.

Probiotics can sometimes help. Additionally, changing their diet into something bland is also advised widely by veterinarians. A bland diet is easier for a unhappy digestive tract to digest. In the case that your puppy is feeling lethargic or it’s vomiting, consult the vet immediately. 


This article is endorsed by perrovets’ vet, Dr James Blanshard.


Share This Post

Related Articles

Why Are Animals Scared Of The Vet?

Going to the vet is important for pets' health but sometimes they're scared. Why are animals afraid of visiting the vet?

What Are The Types Of Vets?

Confused of which vet to bring your pet to? Read more to find out about what types of vets there are available!

What is the difference between a Pet Veterinarian and a Wildlife Veterinarian?

Read on to find out how you can differentiate a pet veterinarian from a wildlife veterinarian.

Healthy Dog Treats To Choose For Your Dog

Dog treats are not created equal. There are quality treats that are vital sources of energy and support the immune system and organ function while others are empty calories...

Why Are Black Animals Less Liked?

Ever wondered why black pets are frowned upon? Find out how you can put a stop to this problem.

Can Dogs Eat Walnuts?

Walnuts are nutritionally rich and this makes them great for human consumption. However, can the same be said for dogs?

Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?

Watermelon contains many vitamins and minerals beneficial for your dog. However, there are some precautions to note before giving your dog watermelon.

Can Dogs Eat Yoghurt?

Yoghurt can be good for your dog's nutrition, but what type of yoghurt is best?

Can Dogs Eat Apples?

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away"... Is this saying true for dogs?

Why Does My Puppy Throw Up

Cases of vomiting in puppies are more serious than in adult dogs. Read on to find out more!

perrovets' Services - Dental Procedures

Dental procedures are performed as a day procedure under anaesthesia, most commonly in Dogs, Cats and Rabbits.

Most Common Dog Diseases

Learn more about the most common dog diseases!

Can Cats Eat Peanut Butter?

Should you feed your cat peanut butter?

Things You Need To Know About Leptospirosis

All you need to know about Leptospirosis!

Why Is My Dog Drinking So Much Water?

A dog drinking excessive amounts of water can be a sign of a health problem!

Separation Anxiety In Dogs

Working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic would increase the risk of dogs having separation anxiety.

Hamster Care Recommendations

From housing recommendations to diet recommendations, we've got you and your hamster covered!

Dr James Answers: Which Preventative Treatment Should I Use For My Dog?

With so many anti parasite products available on the market, it can be somewhat overwhelming deciding which one is best for your lifestyle and your dogs’ health.

Things You Need To Know About Kennel Cough

All you need to know about Kennel Cough!

Things You Need To Know About Parvovirus

What you should know about Parvovirus!

Why Do You Need To Feed Your Pets Organs Or Offals?

Long ago, the ancestors of today’s pet cats and dogs thrived as predators. To achieve the full spectrum of nutrition that they needed, they were inclined to eat most of their prey. With domestication...

Why Is My Dog Throwing Up?

A dog may throw up because he has eaten something that his digestive tract disagrees with or he may have gobbled down food too quickly...

Common Dog Parasites

Parasites can be a major concern at some point in the lives of pet dogs. They are one of the top reasons for visits to the veterinarian.

When Should I Take My Dog To The Vet?

Dogs benefit from regular health checks and dental visits to the veterinarian. But how often is enough? How do you know when to take your dog to the vet?

How To Overcome Separation Anxiety

Why is your dog battling with separation anxiety and how you can overcome it.

Pet Therapy For Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal emotion that dogs and cats may experience. The effect of anxiety on individual pets varies significantly. Anxiety disorders...

Why Taking Care Of Your Dog's Dental Health Is Important

Though seemingly insignificant, your dog's dental health should not be overlooked.

Ways To Improve Your Dog's Mental Health

A lack of mental stimulation can result in a plethora of behavioural issues.

Is Feeding Your Dog Raw Food Healthy?

Should you feed your dog raw food?

Why Does My Dog Hump Certain People?

Many dog owners will be familiar with the awkward scenario of their dog unexpectedly humping another dog, an inanimate object, or even a human leg.

Cat Vomiting: Should You Be Worried?

Cat vomiting may be a perfectly normal occurrence from time to time, however, it can sometimes be a sign of a serious health problem.

How To Take Care Of Your Cat’s Teeth

One of the essential components of maintaining a healthy lifestyle for pet cats is having a good home dental regiment.

Why Does My Dog Eat Dirt

Simply delicious or a symptom of illness?

Is Smoking Around Your Pets Harmful To Their Health?

Does inhalation of cigarette smoke affect our pets?

Why Does Your Dog Smell?

Why can't you get rid of that smell?

Why Is My Dog Always Eating Grass?

It may seem strange, but there's a good reason why your dog is chomping down on grass.

All About Cat Vaccinations

All you need to know about cat vaccinations!

Why Does My Dog Eat Its Vomit?

It may or may not be a sign of illness, but it's best to find out if it is.

A Vet reveals: Diet, Allergies and more

Vet answers burning questions!