Diarrhoea in dogs - causes & home remedies
Introduction
Diarrhoea in dogs is a common condition that will affect every dog owner at least once in the course of their four-legged friend's life. The liquid and often uncontrolled excretion can be the result of a wide variety of causes - from harmless feeding errors to serious health problems. Whether it occurs suddenly or gradually and chronically, diarrhoea is unpleasant for dogs and can become a serious burden and danger to their health, especially if the symptoms persist.
Table of contents
Definition of diarrhoea
Diarrhoea in dogs is characterised by frequent urge to defecate, liquid or mushy stools and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite or exhaustion. The consistency, colour and frequency of the stool changes significantly compared to the animal's normal condition. Diarrhoea is not a disease in its own right, but a symptom that can indicate various health problems.
Many dog owners are familiar with it: the dog has diarrhoea and you are worried. This happens quite often and the reasons for it can be very different. Sometimes it is not bad and passes quickly, but sometimes the diarrhoea shows that the dog is ill and needs help from the vet quickly.
It is important that we as dog owners are well informed about why a dog gets diarrhoea and what we can do about it. We should understand when we can care for the dog at home and when we should go to the vet.
In this blog, we'll explain the basics of diarrhoea in dogs to give you an initial overview. In the next few sections, we'll take a closer look at why dogs get diarrhoea, how the vet finds out what's wrong and what you can do about it. This will give you a clear picture of the problem and teach you how you can best help your dog.
Causes of diarrhoea in dogs
In recent years, behavioural researchers and dog trainers have increasingly questioned and criticised the dominance theory. The main points of criticism and alternative approaches are:
Infections and parasites
Dogs can get diarrhoea if they become infected with bacteria, viruses or parasites such as worms. This sometimes happens when they eat something from the ground on a walk or come into contact with infected animals. We therefore advise you to carry out regular worm tests and give a worming treatment if necessary. Be careful not to give worming treatments at random, as these can be very stressful for the intestines. You can also protect your dog by protecting it from fleas and ticks.
Diarrhoea in dogs can be caused by various infections and parasites, and one of the common sources of these pathogens is faeces from wild animals such as foxes.
- Fuchskot und der Fuchsbandwurm: Besonders in ländlichen Gegenden, wo der Kontakt zu Wildtieren wahrscheinlicher ist, besteht die Gefahr einer Infektion mit dem Fuchsbandwurm (Echinococcus multilocularis). Der Fuchsbandwurm lebt im Dünndarm von Fleischfressern und scheidet Eier mit dem Kot aus, die dann von Nagetieren aufgenommen werden. Die Larven entwickeln sich in deren Leber, und wenn ein Hund beispielsweise eine befallene Maus frisst oder mit infiziertem Fuchskot in Kontakt kommt, kann er sich infizieren. Die Wurmlarven setzen sich vor allem in der Leber des Hundes fest und können dort erheblichen Schaden anrichten. Symptome einer Infektion sind unter anderem Durchfall, Erbrechen und ein aufgeblähter Bauch. Auch für Menschen ist der Fuchsbandwurm gefährlich und kann schwere Erkrankungen auslösen. Eine regelmäßige Entwurmung und das Verhindern des Kontaktes mit Fuchskot sind hier essentielle Präventionsmassnahmen.
- Giardia: These are tiny parasites that colonise the small intestine and can cause diarrhoea, especially in puppies. They are excreted in the faeces of infected animals and can be ingested via contaminated water or direct contact. Giardia are persistent and often difficult to remove completely from the environment.
- Parvovirus: A virus that is particularly dangerous for puppies and young dogs. It causes bloody diarrhoea, vomiting and fever. It is transmitted via direct contact with an infected animal or its faeces. Vaccination offers protection here.
- Coronaviruses: Coronaviruses can also cause diarrhoea in dogs. The viruses attack the intestinal wall and lead to symptoms such as diarrhoea, loss of appetite and lethargy.
-
Bacterial infections: For example, Salmonella or Campylobacter, which can be ingested through spoiled food or contact with infected faeces. These bacteria often cause watery, sometimes bloody diarrhoea.
Nutritional causes
Diet plays a central role in the health of our dog's digestive system. Sometimes, whether through inadvertent access to "forbidden" foods or careless feeding on the part of owners, dogs consume things that are not beneficial to their gastrointestinal tract. Here are some dietary factors that can trigger diarrhoea:
- Bad food: Sometimes poor preservation or storage of Dog Food can cause it to spoil. Mould or bacteria in the food can make the dog ill and cause diarrhoea. Particular attention should be paid to hygiene when feeding BARF.
-
B-Vitamine: Vitamin B, insbesondere Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) und B6 (Pyridoxin), spielt eine wichtige Rolle in der Verdauungsgesundheit von Hunden. Ein Mangel oder Ungleichgewicht dieser Vitamine kann Durchfall und andere gastrointestinale Symptome bei Hunden verursachen. Vitamin B12 ist entscheidend für viele metabolische Prozesse und unterstützt die Zellteilung sowie die Protein- und Energieproduktion. Ein Vitamin B12-Mangel kann unter anderem Durchfall, Appetitlosigkeit und Gewichtsverlust bei Hunden verursachen. Ein gesunder Darm ist notwendig, um Vitamin B12 aufzunehmen. Daher kann eine Gastrointestinalerkrankung (wie IBD - Inflammatory Bowel Disease) die Aufnahme von Vitamin B12 behindern, was wiederum die Darmgesundheit weiter beeinträchtigt, in einem teuflischen Kreis. Vitamin B6 ist wesentlich für die Produktion von Neurotransmittern, die Immunfunktion und den Stoffwechsel. Ein Mangel an B6 kann Durchfall und andere Symptome wie Anämie und Hauterkrankungen hervorrufen. Vitamin B6 ist auch an der
B vitamins in general are critical for energy production and can affect the health of the gut lining. An imbalance or deficiency of B vitamins can disrupt the body's ability to absorb nutrients, leading to diarrhoea and other digestive problems.
- Abrupt food changes: A quick change of food without a gradual change can irritate the dog's gastrointestinal tract. It is important to make any change to the diet slowly over a week or more to give the digestive system time to adjust.
- Foreign bodies and toxic substances: Dogs explore the world with their mouths and sometimes eat things they shouldn't, such as rubbish, toys or toxic substances (e.g. chocolate, onions). This can lead to irritation and inflammation in the intestines.
- Sensitive stomach: Some dogs have a naturally sensitive stomach, which means that certain food components or types of food can trigger diarrhoea. Special diets or feeds are often helpful here.
- Food allergies and intolerances: Some dogs are allergic or intolerant to certain ingredients in their food, such as certain proteins, grains or additives. Symptoms may include skin problems and/or digestive problems such as diarrhoea and vomiting.
- Overfeeding: Excessive amounts of food or treats, even if they are suitable for dogs, can also cause diarrhoea as they overload the digestive tract.
- Feeding leftovers: Sometimes the habit of giving leftovers from our food to the dog can also lead to problems. Our food often contains ingredients and spices that can be difficult for dogs to digest or even poisonous.
Allergies and intolerances
It is not uncommon for our dogs, like us humans, to be sensitive to certain food components. Allergies and intolerances to certain ingredients in food can trigger a whole range of symptoms, with diarrhoea being a particularly common sign. Dealing with the issue of allergies and intolerances is essential to ensure your dog's well-being and avoid serious health problems.
- Common allergens: Common allergens in dog food include beef, chicken, egg, wheat and soya, but other proteins, carbohydrates and additives can also cause allergic reactions.
- Variety of symptoms: Allergies can manifest themselves in many different ways, including skin irritations (itching, redness), chronic ear itching, but also digestive problems such as diarrhoea or vomiting.
- Food diary: A helpful method for identifying allergies or intolerances is to keep a food diary, documenting the ingredients fed and the occurrence and intensity of symptoms.
- Exclusion diet: A method often recommended by vets to identify food allergies is the so-called exclusion diet. In this method, the dog is fed a strictly controlled diet containing only a few ingredients classified as harmless for a certain period of time. Other food ingredients are then gradually reintroduced to observe whether and which of them trigger a reaction.
- Allergy test: Dog owners who are confronted with the discomfort and stress of an allergy-plagued animal are often looking for ways to identify the triggering factors quickly and effectively. In addition to the exclusion diet often recommended by vets, there are other methods such as allergy tests and bioresonance, which are, however, controversial among experts.
- Adaptation of the diet: Once the triggering factors have been identified, the diet can be specifically adapted to exclude the identified allergens or intolerable ingredients.
Stress and psychological factors
When we think of diarrhoea in dogs, we tend to look for physical causes, but as with humans, a dog's mental state can also influence its digestion.
- Psychological stress: Stress factors, such as moving house, adding a new family member, or a change in daily routine, can affect the dog's gastrointestinal tract and trigger diarrhoea.
- Anxiety and excitement: Situational stress, such as travelling, visits to the vet or thunderstorms, can also cause digestive problems.
- Management: Stress management techniques, such as a stable routine, calming environments and positive reinforcement, can help to minimise stress levels and therefore reduce the likelihood of stress-related diarrhoea.
Medication side effects
Some medications can have diarrhoea as a side effect, so if your dog has recently started a new medication and develops diarrhoea, you should discuss this with your vet.
Diseases of the internal organs
Diseases of the internal organs can cause complex and varied symptoms, and diarrhoea is often one of the first signs that something is wrong. Some specific diseases of the internal organs that can be associated with diarrhoea are:
Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Symptoms: In addition to diarrhoea, pancreatitis can also cause vomiting, abdominal pain, fever and lethargy.
- Causes: High-fat food, injuries or side effects of medication can trigger pancreatitis.
- Management: Treatment may include dietary adjustments, medication and, in severe cases, hospitalisation.
Intestinal obstruction
- Symptoms: Intestinal obstruction can cause diarrhoea, vomiting, visible abdominal pain and a swollen abdomen.
- Causes: Intestinal obstruction can be caused by foreign bodies, tumours or twisted parts of the intestine.
- Emergency: An intestinal obstruction is a medical emergency and requires immediate veterinary intervention, possibly including surgery.
Tumours in the digestive tract
- Symptoms: Depending on the location and size of the tumour, symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, blood in the stool or weight loss may occur.
- Diagnosis and treatment: Imaging techniques can help to identify tumours, while the treatment strategy varies depending on the type and location of the tumour.
Liver and kidney diseases
- Symptoms: These can vary, but often include symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, increased thirst and urine output and jaundice.
- Management: Depending on the diagnosis, various therapeutic approaches may be considered, including medication, dietary changes or even surgery.
Toxic substances
Toxins are everywhere and sometimes they come from the most unlikely sources. If your dog ingests such toxins, it can be life-threatening and quick action is absolutely necessary.
Typical toxins
- Food: Beware of chocolate, onions and grapes - they are poisonous to dogs.
- Plants: Some, such as yews and rhododendrons, contain harmful substances.
- Household chemicals: From cleaning agents to pesticides - swallowing them is dangerous!
Additional toxins
- Anti-tick products: Too much of them or the wrong application can be dangerous.
- Fertilised fields: Fertilisers and pesticides can be ingested when licking or Eat.
- Horse apples: If horses have been wormed, their apples may contain toxic worming agents.
- Poisoned rodents: A dead rodent may contain toxins that are dangerous for your dog.
Emergency measures
- Be quick: every second counts if there are signs of poisoning.
- Call the vet: Even if you're not sure, it's better to be safe than sorry!
-
Poison control centre: Keep the numbers handy and check them regularly to make sure they are up to date.
-
Germany:
Berlin poison centre: +49 30 19240
Bonn poison centre: +49 228 19240
-
Switzerland:
Tox Info Switzerland: +41 145
-
Austria:
Poisoning Information Centre:
+43 1 4064343
-
Diarrhoea in dogs and autoimmune diseases
Diarrhoea in dogs can be a symptom of many different health problems, and while some causes are relatively harmless and easy to treat, others can be more serious and complex. Autoimmune diseases are one such category of conditions that can cause diarrhoea and other digestive problems in dogs.
Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies its own cells and tissues as foreign and attacks them. Some autoimmune diseases that affect dogs and can also be associated with diarrhoea and other digestive problems are:
Lupus
- Definition: Lupus is a systemic autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints and internal organs.
- Symptoms: skin changes, joint inflammation, fever and, in some cases, gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhoea.
- Management: Treatment is often based on immunosuppressants and anti-inflammatory drugs to control the symptoms.
Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism)
- Definition: This disease occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough steroid hormones, which are important for regulating various bodily functions.
- Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss, weakness and apathy may occur.
- Management: Addison's disease is often treated with steroids and, if necessary, additional electrolytes to compensate for the hormone deficiency.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Definition: IBD is a chronic inflammation of the gut that is often associated with an overactive immune system.
- Symptoms: Frequent diarrhoea, vomiting and weight loss are characteristic.
- Management: Dietary management, probiotics and often anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs are part of the treatment strategies.
Diarrhoea may be the first sign that the dog's immune system is not functioning properly, especially if it is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms. To diagnose autoimmune disease, comprehensive veterinary investigations are required, including blood tests, ultrasound and possibly tissue samples. The exact causes and links between autoimmune disease and diarrhoea are complex and vary depending on the disease and the individual dog. Overall, the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune disease in dogs requires an in-depth understanding and an individualised approach to managing the particular symptoms and challenges.
Diagnostics for diarrhoea
A thorough diagnosis is crucial to determine the exact cause of diarrhoea in dogs and to initiate the right treatment accordingly. Here are some more detailed points on the methods already mentioned as well as some additional approaches.
Faeces examination
- Parasite infestation: The vet looks for signs of parasites such as worms or giardia.
- Bacterial infections: A microscopic test can indicate harmful bacteria such as salmonella.
- Viral infections: Some viruses, such as the parvovirus, can cause diarrhoea and are often life-threatening.
- Digestive enzymes: A digestive enzyme test can provide information about problems with the pancreas.
Blood test
- Organ function: Checking the function of the liver, kidneys and other important organs.
- Inflammatory markers: Anti-inflammatory markers may indicate a systemic disease or infection.
- Blood count: Analyses the number and quality of blood cells, which can indicate various health conditions.
Ultrasound or X-ray
- Tumours: Identifies possible growths or abnormalities in the organs.
- Blockages: Checks whether there are foreign bodies or blockages in the digestive tract.
- Organ structure: Examines the shape and structure of internal organs for abnormalities or changes.
Feed samples
- Allergy tests: Sometimes special elimination diets or skin tests are carried out to identify food allergies or intolerances.
- Food intake: Documentation of the dog's food and water intake to detect abnormalities or patterns that could indicate a problem.
Additional diagnostic measures
- Endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the dog's mouth to inspect the digestive tract and take tissue samples if necessary.
- Biopsy: In certain cases, a tissue sample can be taken from digestive organs to check the cells microscopically for abnormalities or diseases.
- Specialised tests: Sometimes specific tests are necessary for diseases such as pancreatitis, Addison's disease or hyperthyroidism.
Diagnosing diarrhoea in dogs can be complex, especially if the cause is not immediately obvious. It is important that you work with your vet to provide an accurate history and symptom survey to help make a diagnosis. Every clue can be valuable, and combining specialised tests and detailed information can pave the way to effective treatment and restoration of your dog's health.
General initial measures for diarrhoea in dogs
Some supplements and home remedies can offer support if your dog has acute diarrhoea, but they should never be considered as the sole solution. The cause of the diarrhoea must not be ignored. If digestive problems persist or recur, a more in-depth examination by a vet is essential to rule out or appropriately treat any underlying conditions or problems. If the diarrhoea persists for more than 3 days or is accompanied by other worrying symptoms, a visit to the vet is essential. Diarrhoea, especially if it persists for a prolonged period, can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening dehydration.
Individual tolerance plays an important role when it comes to using natural remedies and home remedies. Every dog is unique and reacts differently, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It is therefore crucial that you observe your dog closely and pay attention to how they react to certain remedies. Another essential factor is professional advice. Consultation with your vet is of the utmost importance to ensure that the chosen remedies are not only safe, but also suitable for your dog's specific case.
Elm bark
Soothes and protects the stomach and intestinal mucosa by forming a protective film.
Healing peat
Can help to remove toxins from the intestines and stabilise the intestinal flora.
Pro- & prebiotics
Support the healthy bacteria in the gut and help to restore the microbial balance.
Psyllium husks
Bind liquids and can therefore improve the consistency of the stool.
Marshmallow root powder
Protects the mucous membranes in the digestive tract and can have anti-inflammatory effects.
Moro-Suppe
A traditional home remedy that can soothe the intestines and provide electrolytes.
Oatmeal
Provides nutrients while being gentle on the gastrointestinal tract. It is best to boil in a ratio of 1:5 or even 1:10 (i.e. 2 tbsp oatmeal and 10-20 tbsp water) over a medium heat for about 5 minutes. The more water you add, the more slimy it becomes.
Bland food
Mild foods such as chicken breast with potatoes and additional Moro soup can relieve the digestive system. Chicken breast is a low-fat and easily digestible food. Potatoes are diarrhoea-binding and a gentle source of carbohydrates and energy.
Marshmallow root powder
Protects the mucous membranes in the digestive tract and can have anti-inflammatory effects.
Moro-Suppe
A traditional home remedy that can soothe the intestines and provide electrolytes.
Moro Suppe
Moro soup is named after Professor Ernst Moro, a German paediatrician who developed it at the beginning of the 20th century to treat diarrhoea in children. This soup became known for its ability to soothe the intestines and counteract diarrhoea. Although it was originally developed for humans, some dog owners also use this method for their four-legged friends.
Basic recipe:
- Take about 500 grams of carrots.
- Peel them and cut them into small pieces.
- Boil the carrots in about one litre of water for at least 90 minutes until they are very soft.
- Puree the cooked carrots and the remaining water into a smooth soup.
- Add a pinch of salt (really only a very small amount for dogs).
Use in dogs:
- Smaller amounts of the soup can be added to the food or served as a separate meal.
The long cooking time of the carrots leads to the release of special sugars that help to bind and eliminate harmful bacteria in the intestine. Moro soup can therefore help to soothe the intestines and rebalance the intestinal flora.
Vitomalias Fazit
Diarrhoea in dogs can have a variety of causes, including food intolerances, infections, parasite infestations or more serious health problems such as diseases of the internal organs. Although it is natural to first resort to gentle home remedies and proven nutritional supplements such as elm bark, probiotics or Moro soup, these remedies should never be seen as a substitute for veterinary diagnosis and treatment.
In the case of acute diarrhoea, it is first important to keep an eye on your dog and make sure that he is not becoming dangerously dehydrated. If the diarrhoea lasts longer than 24-48 hours, blood is visible in the stool or the dog's general condition worsens, a visit to the vet is essential. Even if the diarrhoea passes but recurs at regular intervals, it is essential to have it checked out by a specialist in order to rule out chronic or hidden illnesses.
Ultimately, it is always about finding a careful balance between initial measures at home and professional veterinary care. As a dog owner, you should always be vigilant and know your dog well so that you can act accordingly in the event of irregularities in the digestive tract. The health of the dog is the most valuable asset and always deserves priority and attention.
What are common causes of diarrhoea in dogs?
Common causes include food intolerances, infections, parasites, abrupt food changes and sometimes more serious health problems such as organic diseases.
When should I take my dog to the vet if he has diarrhoea?
A visit to the vet is advisable if the diarrhoea lasts longer than 24-48 hours, if it is accompanied by vomiting, apathy or blood in the stool, or if the dog shows signs of weakness or dehydration.
What home remedies can help with diarrhoea?
Some home remedies such as Moro soup, psyllium husks and elm bark can have a soothing effect in certain circumstances, but these remedies should only be used after consultation with a vet and as a supplement to medical therapy.
Can I give my dog medication for diarrhoea?
Medication should never be administered without veterinary advice and although certain medications can help with diarrhoea, it is vital that the cause of the diarrhoea is known to ensure the correct treatment.
What can I give my dog to eat if he has diarrhoea?
Light food is essential for diarrhoea, and easily digestible foods such as gruel, boiled potatoes, Moro soup and cooked chicken breast are often recommended by the vet.
Can diarrhoea in dogs be transmitted to humans?
In rare cases, yes, some diarrhoeal diseases, especially those caused by certain parasites or bacteria (e.g. Giardia), can be zoonotic, i.e. transmissible from animals to humans.
Should I continue to give my dog water if he has diarrhoea?
Yes, absolutely, it is essential that a dog with diarrhoea continues to drink fluids to prevent dehydration. If he does not drink voluntarily, please consult a vet immediately.
Can I give my dog probiotics for diarrhoea?
Probiotics can, after consultation with the vet, be a useful support to stabilise the intestinal flora. They can help to restore the balance of intestinal bacteria, but they are not a panacea and should not be the only measure for diarrhoea.