Understanding and Managing Diarrhoea in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

As a dog owner, few things are more concerning than watching your beloved pet suffer from digestive upset. Diarrhoea is one of the most common health issues affecting dogs, and whilst it's often not serious, understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you provide the best care for your dog.

What Causes Diarrhoea in Dogs?

According to veterinary experts at Blue Cross, diarrhoea in dogs is most commonly caused by scavenging behaviour and eating something they shouldn't, or sudden changes in diet¹. Dogs are naturally curious creatures, often sampling everything from fallen food to questionable items during walks, which can upset their delicate digestive balance.

However, several other factors can trigger loose stools:

• Dietary factors remain the primary culprit. Whether it's raiding the bin, finding something interesting on a walk, or being given too many treats, dietary indiscretion frequently leads to digestive upset. Even well-intentioned diet changes, when introduced too quickly, can cause gastrointestinal distress.
• Stress and anxiety can significantly impact a dog's digestive system. Moving house, changes in routine, new family members, or even loud noises can trigger stress-related diarrhoea. The gut-brain connection in dogs is remarkably strong, meaning emotional upset often manifests as physical symptoms.
• Infections present another common cause. Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections of the gut can lead to loose stools, often accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting or lethargy. These infections may be picked up from contaminated water sources, contact with other animals, or unhygienic environments.
• More serious underlying conditions can also manifest through diarrhoea. Problems with the liver or pancreas, bowel diseases, or even the ingestion of bones and bone fragments can cause digestive issues. In rare cases, heatstroke or consuming poisonous substances can also trigger severe diarrhoea.

Recognising When Diarrhoea Becomes Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis, the inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often presents alongside diarrhoea. Dogs experiencing gastroenteritis typically display a combination of symptoms including vomiting, loose stools, a painful tummy, and loss of appetite¹.

The condition becomes particularly concerning when it develops into haemorrhagic gastroenteritis, characterised by blood in the vomit or faeces. This more severe form requires immediate veterinary attention, as it can quickly become life-threatening, especially in young dogs.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Whilst occasional loose stools might not warrant immediate panic, certain situations require prompt veterinary intervention. Contact your vet immediately if your dog is repeatedly vomiting, has persistent diarrhoea, or if they're elderly, a puppy, or vulnerable to health complications¹.

Warning signs that indicate urgent care is needed include:

• Blood in vomit or stools
• Persistent vomiting alongside diarrhoea
• Signs of dehydration (dry gums, lethargy, skin tenting)
• Severe abdominal pain
• Complete loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
• Symptoms in very young, elderly, or immunocompromised dogs

Treatment Approaches

Veterinary treatment for diarrhoea varies depending on the underlying cause. Typically, vets prescribe medication to control vomiting and diarrhoea, followed by a strict bland diet to allow the digestive system to recover¹.

Hydration remains crucial throughout treatment. Severe cases may require intravenous fluid therapy to prevent dehydration. If bacterial or viral infections are suspected, dogs may need isolation to prevent spreading to other animals.

Most cases of gastroenteritis resolve within a few days with appropriate treatment, but monitoring your dog's progress is essential. If symptoms worsen or fail to improve, immediate veterinary consultation is necessary.

The Role of Digestive Support in Prevention and Recovery

Maintaining optimal digestive health plays a crucial role in preventing diarrhoea and supporting recovery. This is where targeted nutritional support can make a significant difference.

CaniNectar, a natural digestive supplement made from malted barley using ancient artisan varieties, offers comprehensive support for canine digestive health. The product utilises a patented process that preserves essential enzymes valued in Europe for over 800 years.

How CaniNectar Supports Digestive Health

Enzyme Support: CaniNectar provides naturally occurring digestive enzymes that help dogs break down and absorb nutrients more efficiently. Protease breaks down proteins for better muscle maintenance, lipase aids fat digestion for energy and coat health, whilst amylase helps digest starch for steady energy release. Additional enzymes like fructanase, cellulase, and xylanase assist in digesting plant-based ingredients and fibres.

Improved Stool Quality: The supplement supports firm, well-formed stools by promoting a balanced gut microbiome. Studies indicate that dogs given CaniNectar show more consistent stools with a reduction in harmful bacteria like Escherichia/Shigella, meaning easier clean-ups and better overall digestive health.

Reduced Digestive Discomfort: By rebalancing gut bacteria and improving digestion, CaniNectar helps prevent the fermentation of undigested food that leads to gas and bloating. This results in reduced flatulence and greater comfort for your dog.

Nutritional Enhancement: The supplement is rich in B vitamins essential for energy metabolism and overall health, including thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pyridoxine (B6), folate (B9), and vitamin B12. These vitamins support brain function, healthy skin, energy production, and red blood cell formation.

Antioxidant Protection: CaniNectar contains powerful antioxidants including ferulic acid and flavan-3-ols, which help protect cells from damage and support immune function. These compounds contribute to healthy ageing and maintain vitality.

Mineral Support: Key minerals like magnesium, potassium, selenium, zinc, and iron support muscle function, heart health, immune defences, and sustained energy levels.

The Gut-Brain Connection

Interestingly, CaniNectar also addresses the gut-brain axis connection. A balanced microbiome supports calmer, more focused behaviour, whilst an imbalanced gut can contribute to stress, anxiety, and hyperactivity. By promoting beneficial bacteria and helping regulate stress hormones, the supplement can improve trainability and emotional balance.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing diarrhoea involves several key strategies:

• Gradual diet transitions: Always introduce new foods slowly over 7-10 days
• Consistent feeding schedules: Regular meal times help maintain digestive rhythm
• Quality nutrition: Choose high-quality, easily digestible foods appropriate for your dog's age and size
• Supervised outdoor time: Monitor your dog during walks to prevent scavenging
• Stress management: Maintain routines and provide a calm environment
• Regular health checks: Annual veterinary examinations can identify potential issues early
• Digestive support: Consider supplements like CaniNectar to maintain optimal gut health

Conclusion

Diarrhoea in dogs, whilst common, shouldn't be ignored. Understanding the various causes and knowing when to seek veterinary care ensures your dog receives appropriate treatment. By combining proper veterinary care with preventive measures and targeted digestive support, you can help maintain your dog's digestive health and overall well-being.

Remember, a healthy gut contributes to more than just good digestion – it supports your dog's immune system, behaviour, and quality of life. Investing in digestive health through proper nutrition, stress management, and quality supplements can help prevent problems before they start and support your dog's long-term health and happiness.