It can be worrying when your dog has had diarrhea for an extended period of time. Diarrhea that lasts more than 2-3 days could indicate a more serious issue and you should consult your veterinarian. However, there are some common causes of prolonged diarrhea in dogs that can often be managed at home.
What is considered prolonged diarrhea?
Diarrhea is defined as loose, watery stools. It’s considered acute diarrhea if it lasts 2-3 days or less. Anything beyond 3 days is starting to be prolonged or chronic diarrhea.
Diarrhea that continues for a week or more should not be ignored. It can lead to dehydration, nutritional deficiencies, and other complications if left untreated. Contact your vet if your dog has liquid stools for over 72 hours.
Common causes of prolonged diarrhea
There are a number of possible reasons your dog is experiencing diarrhea for an extended time. Here are some of the most common causes:
Dietary indiscretion
Eating something they shouldn’t, like table scraps or garbage, is a very common cause of acute diarrhea in dogs that may linger for a week or more. The unfamiliar or rich foods can disrupt their digestive system.
Parasitic infection
Intestinal parasites like giardia, coccidia, or worms often cause prolonged loose stools. Puppies are especially prone to parasites. You may see worms in the diarrhea.
Bacterial infection
Bacterial overgrowth in the intestines from things like Salmonella, Campylobacter, Clostridium perfringens, or E. coli can result in chronic diarrhea. Your vet can test for these.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
IBD is an intestinal disorder that causes chronic loose stools. It may be triggered by an abnormal immune response to foods, viruses, or gut bacteria.
Food allergies or sensitivities
An allergy or intolerance to ingredients in your dog’s diet can easily cause diarrhea that persists unless you eliminate the offending food. Novel proteins like duck or lamb may help.
Chronic pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas disrupts digestion and leads to greasy, foul-smelling diarrhea that can recur over weeks. It often requires prescription medication.
Medication side effects
Certain antibiotics, cancer drugs, anti-inflammatories, and other medications may cause diarrhea lasting 5-7 days. Always talk to your vet before stopping medication.
Stress
Severe or prolonged stress can disrupt the normal gut flora and motility, leading to loose stools. Changes in environment or routine are common triggers.
Other accompanying symptoms
In addition to extended diarrhea, watch for these other signs that often go along with it:
- Increased urgency or frequency of bowel movements
- Accidents in the house in a previously housebroken dog
- Straining without producing much stool
- Mucus or blood in the stool
- Flatulence or abdominal gurgling
- Vomiting or loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
Home treatment tips
For a mild case of diarrhea lasting less than 5 days, you can try these home treatments while monitoring your dog:
Withhold food for 12-24 hours
Fasting gives the GI tract a rest and avoids aggravating the diarrhea. After the fast, feed a bland diet.
Give probiotics
Probiotic supplements help restore normal populations of healthy bacteria to the intestines to reduce inflammation and loose stools.
Pumpkin
1-4 tablespoons of canned pure pumpkin (not pie filling) provides fiber to firm up stools.
Rice and chicken
Feed a bland diet of boiled chicken and white rice for a few days until stools improve.
Ensure adequate hydration
Persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times.
Anti-diarrheal medication
Over-the-counter treatments like Imodium or Pepto-Bismol can help control diarrhea, but ask your vet for the proper dosage for your dog.
When to see the vet
Make an appointment with your veterinarian if:
- Diarrhea lasts more than 3 days
- Your dog acts lethargic, has a fever, or is vomiting
- You see blood, mucus, or worms in the stool
- Your dog is straining a lot to defecate
- Your dog has accidents in the house
- Your dog is not drinking enough water
- Your dog shows signs of abdominal pain like whining or a hunched posture
- Your dog has any other signs of illness
The vet will do a physical exam and may recommend laboratory tests like a fecal exam or blood work. Treatment will depend on the cause but may include parasitic medication, prescription diet, antibiotics, probiotics, or anti-inflammatories.
Preventing future diarrhea episodes
To help avoid repeat bouts of diarrhea:
- Stick to your dog’s regular diet and avoid rich people food
- Clean up feces promptly in the yard to control parasites
- Wash food bowls regularly
- Bathe and groom your dog regularly
- Minimize changes to diet or daily routines
- Give probiotic supplements if recommended by your vet
- Deworm puppies as advised
- Practice good hygiene when handling your dog
Conclusion
Diarrhea lasting longer than 3 days warrants a call to the vet, especially if your dog shows any other signs of illness. Try withholding food and then feeding bland foods until you can be seen. Make sure your dog stays hydrated. With proper treatment, most cases of chronic diarrhea can be resolved. Sticking to a regular diet and schedule while maintaining good hygiene helps prevent recurrences.