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Dogs actually have a well functioning digestive system and dog diarrhea is not a common experience. But I know that when my dog has diarrhea I can usually attribute it to something that could be an avoided. Some of the common causes of diarrhea in dogs are:

Disruption in the normal diet - If you suddenly give new foods to your dog, it can give them diarrhea. Doesn’t that make sense? Your dog’s digestive system gets used to something, and then a strange new food appears in his dish. It may take his system a few days to acclimate to the new food. You can avoid this unpleasant process by introducing the new food in steps. Try mixing the two together and gradually increasing the amount of the new food and decreasing the amount of the old. Puppies are particularly sensitive to changes in diet.

Worms - Worms can cause diarrhea and is a common cause of it in puppies. If this diarrhea is frothy this usually an indicates internal parasites. Get treatment for this at your local Vet.

Stress - A change in your dog’s daily activities or a long trip could trigger stress and mental confusion, thus bringing on a bout of diarrhea.

Virus - Sometimes your dog might have a virus or illness even though its not something that happens as often as it does with people. If you think its possible your dog may have one of these its best to have your veterinarian take a look to determine what treatment is best.

Expired food - eating unfit meat can give a dog diarrhea just like it can give people diarrhea. When feeding your dog, please be as selective as when you feed your own family.

I know when my dog has diarrhea the most an important thing on my mind is how to make it go away. Not only is it uncomfortable for the dog but it makes a big mess too! While I recommend you get your dog to a vet right away if he has diarrhea here are some things you could try at home:

A little castor oil may help if your dog’s diarrhea was caused by eating spoiled food. If you need a stronger remedy, you may have to switch to feeding him plain rice.

Another option is to give milk mixed with arrowroot for thickness.

Don’t be in a big rush to return your dog back to his normal diet. Keep feeding him rice and milk for several days to give his digestive system a chance to recuperate.

Try slowly getting your dog back to his normal food. Mix boiled hamburg or white fish with rice and milk and gradually add in his regular food. Cut back on the regular food if the diarrhea re-appears.

I am always worried first and foremost about my dog’s health when my dog has diarrhea, so my first step is always to call the vet. I advise that any pet owner do this. Your dog might not be happy about a visit to the vet, but better safe than sorry. Your vet can give suggestions about how to help your dog and may even prescribe medications to speed recovery along.

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Tags: Dogs