Diarrhoea and Flatulence in Dogs: When to Worry

Diarrhoea and Flatulence in Dogs: When to Worry

As pet owners, it is not uncommon to notice changes in your dog’s digestive health. Occasional mild stomach upsets may happen, but diarrhoea and excessive flatulence (gas) are never things to ignore. These symptoms could indicate underlying issues that need veterinary attention.

Diarrhoea in Dogs

Diarrhoea is one of the most frequent reasons dogs are brought to the vet. It can range from soft stools to watery, uncontrollable bowel movements. Causes vary widely, from mild and short-lived to serious and chronic conditions.

Common causes include:

●      Dietary indiscretion (eating spoiled food, garbage, or non-food items)

●      Sudden diet changes

●      Intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, or giardia

●      Infections (bacterial or viral)

●      Food intolerances or allergies

●      Inflammatory bowel disease

●      Organ dysfunction (liver, pancreas, kidneys)

●      Toxin ingestion

When to see the vet:
 If diarrhoea persists for more than 24 hours, is accompanied by vomiting, blood, lethargy, or loss of appetite, prompt veterinary assessment is recommended. Puppies, senior dogs, and small breeds are more prone to dehydration and can deteriorate quickly.

Flatulence in Dogs: More than just an embarrassment

Flatulence comes from an excess formation of gas from the gastrointestinal tract.

Occasional mild gas may occur with dietary changes, but persistent or foul-smelling flatulence is not normal in dogs. This may be a sign of underlying gastrointestinal disease.

Possible causes of flatulence include:

●      Poor-quality or inappropriate diet

●      Food intolerances (e.g., dairy, certain proteins, high-fat foods)

●      Swallowing air while eating too quickly

●      Gastrointestinal disease (inflammatory bowel disease, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth)

●      Malabsorption disorders or enzyme deficiencies (such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency)

What You Can Do as an Owner

●      Monitor: Keep track of your dog’s stool consistency, frequency, and any accompanying symptoms.

●      Feed appropriately: Stick to a high-quality, balanced diet. Avoid table scraps and sudden food changes.

●      Schedule a vet check: If diarrhoea or flatulence persists, consult your veterinarian. Diagnostic tests (stool checks, bloodwork, imaging) may be needed to identify the cause.

Summary

Ongoing diarrhoea or flatulence should not be ignored. These signs could point to an underlying issue with your dog’s digestive system. Early diagnosis and treatment not only improve your dog’s comfort but can also prevent more serious health complications.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s digestive health, arrange a consultation with your veterinarian for advice tailored to your pet’s needs.