Diarrhea in puppies is a recurring problem with multiple causes. It can therefore become a source of anxiety for all dog owners. So when should you worry about it, and what should you do about it?
Causes of diarrhea
Stress
Stress can cause some digestive upset. You may be thrilled with the arrival of your new pet, but his whole environment has changed in a few days. He has left his family and his home, so he must discover new sounds, smells and objects that are unfamiliar to him.
Feeding
Has your puppy kept the same food as at his breeder’s? A sudden change of food can cause diarrhea. It is better to go gradually.
Allergies
A food intolerance or allergy can also be the cause of digestive problems. Often caused by proteins or additives contained in the food, it will be necessary to identify the food in question.
Indigestion
The puppy’s exploratory behavior sometimes leads him to swallow toxic or indigestible substances. Vigilance is still required during the first few months of your little protégé’s life.
Parasites
Puppies frequently have intestinal parasites or worms, and some of these parasites can cause extremely liquid and foul-smelling stools, fatigue, or vomiting.
A viral infection
Canine parvovirus is a well-known virus that causes diarrhea, vomiting, and listlessness. Be careful, because if the adult dog recovers without difficulty, it can cause more complications in the puppy.
Symptoms of diarrhea
Bloody stools
If you see red marks in your puppy’s stool, it may indicate the presence of abnormal blood. Contact your veterinarian promptly; this is a symptom to be taken seriously.
Loss of appetite
A puppy’s appetite may be poor when he’s sick. A 24-hour fast may be beneficial, but be careful that this hunger strike does not last more than 3 days.
Sleep
Even though your puppy needs to sleep quite a bit, a prolonged state of tiredness is abnormal. If your puppy seems listless, it means that his body is weakened by a pathology to be determined.
Vomiting
Diarrhea may be accompanied by vomiting. These two symptoms are associated in many diseases, and the risk of dehydration is great.
Temperature
The normal temperature of a dog is around 38°C (we speak of fever above 39°C). If the temperature is too high, consult your veterinarian quickly.
Intestinal pain
Your puppy seems to complain, or tends to lie down a lot? Diarrhea can cause abdominal contractions that certainly make him suffer. Pay attention to his general condition.
Natural ways to fight diarrhea
Homeopathy
There are homeopathic treatments to treat and relieve puppy diarrhea. Each case being unique, do not hesitate to ask a veterinarian oriented in homeopathy who will take into account all the symptoms to validate the treatment.
Slippery elm
Particularly indicated in case of diarrhea, Slippery Elm is soothing and relieves intestinal inflammation and ulcerations. Ask a naturopath for advice on whether or not to use this natural remedy and how to administer it.
A suitable diet
Cooked rice is often recommended in the case of diarrhea. It is also possible to opt for a 24-hour fast, allowing the digestive system time to rest. This will be more difficult to maintain if your puppy has an appetite and wants to eat, but remember that you’re doing it for his own good.
A bowel dressing
Giving your puppy an intestinal dressing will help slow down his bowel movements and limit watery stools. This treatment absorbs bacterial toxins and soothes the intestinal flora.
Recommendations and prevention of diarrhea
Probiotics
If your puppy suffers from a digestive disorder, probiotics administered as a preventive measure can help him recover a healthy intestinal flora by stimulating the local immune system.
An adapted diet
A diet adapted to your dog’s age, weight and breed is still the best recommendation for preventing diarrhea. A quality diet, rich in good fats and proteins, is essential (avoid supermarket kibbles whenever possible). Your veterinarian may prescribe additional vitamins or food supplements for your puppy, depending on the situation.
In any case, remember that with his young age, your new companion is more fragile than an adult dog: you must remain cautious, watch over his hydration in case of diarrhea, and don’t hesitate to consult an expert if the symptoms persist or worsen, especially if your puppy’s condition doesn’t improve in the 24 hours following his first diarrhea attack
