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Diarrhea in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

Unsure about what’s wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our Symptom Checker for more clarity

DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in dogs, also known as diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., is a common digestive disorder characterized by loose or watery stools. It is a reaction of the digestive tract to various triggers or diseases and can occur as either acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. or chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time..

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Grundlagen und mögliche Ursachen

Diarrhea is the result of disrupted water absorptionAbsorption refers to the uptake of substances by living cells or tissues. In the context of veterinary medicine, it often refers to the absorption of nutrients, drugs, or toxins from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. or secretion in the intestineThe intestine is the medical term for the gut, including the small intestine (intestinum tenue) and the large intestine (intestinum crassum). It plays a central role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.. Normally, water is absorbed in the colonThe colon, also known as the large intestine, is the part of the digestive tract that extends from the end of the small intestine to the rectum. Its main functions are the absorption of water and electrolytes, and the processing of waste products for excretion., but with diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. this process is impaired. This can be caused by Inflammatory conditions, infections, toxins, or a poor diet.

Infections caused by bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease., viruses, or parasites are common triggers of DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.. Bacterial infections can be caused by Salmonella, E. coli, or Campylobacter. Viruses such as parvovirus or coronavirus can also lead to DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.. ParasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. infections caused by Giardia or worms are also common.

Diet-related causes include sudden food changes, eating spoiled or unsuitable food, and food intolerances or allergies. These factors can disrupt the intestinal flora / gut microbiotaThe intestinal flora / gut microbiota, also called microbiome, refers to the community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. A healthy intestinal flora / gut microbiota is crucial for digestion, the immune system, and the overall health of dogs and cats. and lead to DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems..

Other possible causes include inflammatory bowel disease, stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., medications (such as antibiotics or NSAIDsNSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, a class of medications used to relieve pain, reduce inflammatory conditions, and lower fever without using steroidal agents. They are a commonly used pain reliever in veterinary medicine.), and systemic diseases such as liver or kidney problems. An unhealthy lifestyle or environmental stressors can also play a role.

Typische Begleitsymptome

Vomiting: Many dogs that suffer from Diarrhea also show Vomiting. This can be triggered by the same causes as DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. and leads to further fluid loss (dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse.).
Loss of appetite: A dog with diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. may refuse to eat or only eat reluctantly, which indicates a general malaise or abdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain.
Lethargy: Dogs with diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. often show reduced activity and appear lethargic or tired because their body is fighting the causes of the diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems..
Fever: With infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. causes, the dog may develop Fever, which can be recognized by an elevated body temperature and a warm feeling when touched.
DehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse.: Due to fluid loss (dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse.), the dog may be dehydrated, which shows as dry mucous membranes, reduced skin elasticity, and sunken eyes.
Blood in the stool: In some cases, the diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. may be bloody, which indicates a more serious illness or injury to the intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. wall.

Wann zum Tierarzt?

A veterinarian should be consulted if the Diarrhea lasts longer than 24 to 48 hours or if it is accompanied by severe symptoms such as bloody stool, severe Vomiting, or Fever. These signs may indicate a serious condition that requires immediate treatment.

It is also advisable to seek veterinary advice early for young puppies, older dogs, or dogs with a weakened immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., as they are more prone to dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse. and complications.

If the dog shows signs of dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse. or seems severely lethargic, an immediate visit to the veterinarian is also necessary to prevent further health damage.

Symptomerkennung für den Tierhalter und tierärztliches diagnostisches Vorgehen

The pet owner should monitor the DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. closely and note how often the dog defecates, what the stool consistency is like, and whether additional symptoms such as Vomiting or Fever occur. This information is important for the veterinarian to determine the cause of the DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems..

The veterinarian will take a thorough medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. and may perform a physical examination. Depending on the dog’s symptoms and medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., diagnostic tests may also be necessary. These include fecal tests to identify parasites, blood tests to check overall health, and possibly imaging such as X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions. or ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. to detect structural abnormalities in the digestive tract.

In some cases, an endoscopyEndoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light source and a camera at the end) to examine and visualize the inside of the body, often for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. or an intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. biopsy is necessary to diagnose inflammatory or structural diseases. These tests help the veterinarian make an accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and plan an appropriate treatment.

Was kann der Tierhalter tun und professionelle Therapieoptionen

The pet owner can initially try fasting the dog for 12 to 24 hours to give the digestive system a rest. It is important that fresh water is available at all times to prevent dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse..

After the fasting period, the dog can be gradually fed a easily digestible diet. Suitable foods include cooked rice with chicken or special diet food recommended by the veterinarian. This diet should be continued for a few days before slowly switching back to normal food.

Probiotics or prebiotics can help stabilize the intestinal flora / gut microbiotaThe intestinal flora / gut microbiota, also called microbiome, refers to the community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. A healthy intestinal flora / gut microbiota is crucial for digestion, the immune system, and the overall health of dogs and cats. and restore balance. However, these should only be given after consulting the veterinarian.

It is important to keep the dog in a stress-free environment and allow plenty of rest. StressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. can worsen or prolong DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems..

If the diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. persists or worsens, the pet owner should not hesitate to consult a veterinarian to ensure appropriate treatment and rule out more serious health problems.

Ausblick auf aktuelle Forschung

Current research into the symptom of DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in dogs is working intensively to better understand the many causes and mechanisms behind this common problem. Scientists are investigating the role of the microbiome in dogs’ intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. tract and how changes in the composition of the intestinal flora / gut microbiotaThe intestinal flora / gut microbiota, also called microbiome, refers to the community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. A healthy intestinal flora / gut microbiota is crucial for digestion, the immune system, and the overall health of dogs and cats. can affect DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.. Studies show that a disrupted balance of microorganisms in the gut plays a key role in the development of DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.. This has led to probiotics and prebiotic supplements being researched as potential treatments to stabilize the intestinal flora / gut microbiotaThe intestinal flora / gut microbiota, also called microbiome, refers to the community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. A healthy intestinal flora / gut microbiota is crucial for digestion, the immune system, and the overall health of dogs and cats..

Another exciting area of research focuses on genetic and immunological factors that may contribute to a dog’s susceptibility to Diarrhea. Some breeds appear more prone to gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. problems, and researchers are trying to identify genetic markers associated with a higher risk of DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.. At the same time, research is looking at how dogs’ immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. responds to different stimuli and how autoimmune reactions might lead to chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. diarrheal conditions.

Advances in diagnostic technology allow researchers to identify specific pathogens—such as viruses, bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease., and parasites—more precisely, which can cause DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in dogs. Modern molecular techniques, including next-generation sequencing, enable faster and more accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. agents, which can lead to more targeted treatment strategies. In addition, new vaccines are being developed to protect dogs from common infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. causes of DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems..

In nutrition research, efforts are underway to develop dietary approaches that can help prevent or reduce DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in dogs. Specialized diets containing easily digestible ingredients are being tested to assess their effectiveness in easing symptoms and promoting gut health. The impact of fiber and specific fatty acids on intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. transit and gut health is also being studied to better understand how nutrition can be used strategically to control DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems..

Finally, research is also dedicated to developing new therapeutic approaches, including the use of antidiarrheals specifically formulated for safety and effectiveness in dogs. Innovative approaches such as fecal microbiota transplantation—where healthy gut bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease. are transferred from a donor to a recipient dog to stabilize the intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. flora / gut microbiota—are also being investigated. These techniques promise to open up a new dimension in the treatment of diarrheal diseases in dogs.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

What are the most common causes of diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in dogs? Common causes of DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in dogs include dietary changes, food intolerances, parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. infestation, bacterial infections, viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections, stress, foreign bodies in the gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. tract, and certain medications.
When should I take my dog to the vet for diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.? You should see a veterinarian if the diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. lasts longer than 24-48 hours, if it is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, fever, or blood in the stool, or if your dog shows signs of dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse..
What home remedies can help with mild diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.? With mild DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., it can be helpful to have the dog fast for 12–24 hours to relieve the intestines. After that, a bland diet of cooked chicken and rice can be offered in small portions. Make sure your dog drinks enough water to prevent dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse..
Can stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in dogs? Yes, stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. can lead to DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in dogs. Changes in the environment, such as moving house or new pets, as well as emotional strain, can affect the gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. tract and lead to DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems..
How can I minimize the risk of diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in my dog? To minimize the risk of DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., provide a balanced diet, avoid sudden food changes, keep your pet free of parasites with regular deworming, and prevent your dog from eating spoiled or unsuitable food.
Can vaccinations help prevent DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in dogs? Vaccinations can help prevent DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. by protecting your dog from certain viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. and bacterial infections that can cause DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., such as distemper or parvovirosis.
Is diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in dogs contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious.? DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. itself is not contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious., but its causes can be. If the DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. is caused by a contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. such as parvovirosis or Giardia, it can be passed on to other dogs.
What role does nutrition play in preventing diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.? Diet plays a key role in preventing DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.. A high-quality, balanced diet supports gut health and helps minimize the risk of diarrheal diseases. Avoid sudden food changes and pay attention to ingredient tolerance.
Is it normal for puppies to have diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. more often than adultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. dogs? Yes, puppies have DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. more often than adultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. dogs because their immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. is not yet fully developed and they are more susceptible to infections and dietary changes. However, persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. or severe DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in puppies should be assessed by a veterinarian.
Can medications cause diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. in dogs? Yes, certain medications—especially antibiotics—can cause DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. as a side effectA side effect is an unwanted reaction to a medication or treatment. In animals, side effects can range from mild and temporary to severe and potentially life-threatening. because they can disrupt the natural bacterial balance in the gut. Inform your veterinarian if your dog develops DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. after taking medication.