At times, symptoms that something is off with your dog’s health can be found while out for a walk. A change in the color and consistency in your dog’s bowels can be caused by nothing more than sudden change in diet. At other times, there can be cause for alarm. Here’s a guide to help you decipher between the two.
Color Guide
Yellow
Yellow stool is usually a result of a dog consuming grass, or eating something that is not a usual part of his or her diet. Usually, there’s nothing to be overly worried about.
Gray
Pale grey is a sign of a pancreatic deficiency. If your dog’s pancreas is operating incorrectly, then the stool will have this abnormal color. This is a time to consult with your vet.
Red
Dogs sometimes have red excretions after eating food with artificial die. Unless there is an overwhelming or persistent red presence, this is typically caused by a food source.
If the stool is bright red, that can be reflective of lower gastrointestinal tract, or colitis. Vet consultation is highly recommended.
Orange
Like yellow, orange is typically a color related to diet. If it persists, it may also be a sign of liver problems.
Black
Black is an indication of bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. When there is bleeding in the stomach that is digested, the stool will turn dark black. In this case, you should visit your vet as soon as possible.
Green
Green stool is usually caused by nothing more than ingested food.
Consistency
Your dog should have a nice quality formed stool. It should not be too hard or mushy. As an owner, you should be able to pick up after your dog without leaving any residue behind.
Bowels that are soft without any form can be a result of a GI parasite, or an indication that the dog is not digesting food well. You should make an appointment with your vet to rule out other causes and take the right corrective action. Bacteria overgrowth or parasites will typically be resolved via antibiotics or probiotics.
Constipation
Constipation is caused by dehydration or an underlying disease in the GI tract. Constipation can also be a symptom of kidney disease. Pumpkin is a good source of fiber and can help regulate and ease constipation. If pumpkin does not alleviate your dog’s constipation after some time, lab work is recommended to find the underlying issue.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is far more common in dogs than constipation and is caused by GI parasites, or dietary indiscretion. Dogs who have consumed food that isn’t appropriate for their diet can experience diarrhea. A sudden change in food can also be the cause. It’s recommended to slowly incorporate new food into your dog’s diet when a change is necessary.
Another cause of diarrhea in dogs is stress. When dogs are placed in new or stressful environments, colitis can be induced.
Your vet will help stabilize your dog with antibiotics, probiotics, or a mixture of both.
All dogs will experience a change in their bowels at one point or another. You can use this guide to help you determine if bacteria, bleeding, parasites, or a sudden change in diet is the culprit. Consult with your vet before taking any action, and as always, we’re here to help.