Watch & Learn Your Dog’s Reaction
Keep an eye on your dogs reaction to the new food. In addition to signs of stomach upset, you should also keep an eye on your dogs stool. If it appears runny or abnormally soft, or if your dog shows other signs of an upset stomach, slow down this process and give them more time to adjust.
Your dog may not seem to tolerate the new food, no matter how slowly you go, and thats OK too. Slowly shift them back to the old food and start again with something else after giving his tummy a break. It could be that the new dog food contains ingredients to which your dog has an intolerance or allergy. If you continue to have trouble changing dog food, or if his stools contain blood or an unusual color, you should consult a veterinarian.
Give your dog plenty of water, especially now, as theyll need to stay hydrated during the transition. If they stop drinking, however, or seems to be drinking an excessive amount, this might be a sign of a more complicated digestion issue with the new food. Again, see your vet to ensure theyre taking to it healthily.
Common causes of hematochezia
This is a common reason for puppy diarrhea and bloody stools. Parvo can affect any puppy, but Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and Doberman Pinschers seem more affected. Symptoms may include:
If you suspect your dog has contracted parvovirus, see your vet immediately.
The most common intestinal parasites are hookworms, whipworms, roundworms, giardia, and coccidia (protozoans). A regular parasite prevention program can eliminate them. Your veterinarian examines your dog’s stools to prescribe specific anti-parasitic medication.
Causes Of Bright Red Blood In Dog Stools
Fresh red blood can be caused by parvovirus, parasites, stress, rectal injuries, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, or your dog eating something he shouldn’t have. If your dog is acting normally but you see one or two stools with blood, it’s probably nothing serious. But if your dog repeatedly has bright red blood in his stool, here are some possible causes …
Parvovirus Parvovirus, most common in puppies, can be deadly. If you notice blood in your dog’s stool and your dog is lethargic, not hungry, or vomiting as well, contact your veterinarian right away. Puppies can dehydrate extremely fast and that’s one reason parvo is so dangerous. You can manage parvo at home but don’t try to do it without help … you must work with your vet.
Parasites Intestinal parasites like worms are a common cause of blood in your dog’s poop. You can take a fecal sample to your vet to confirm the diagnosis … but try to avoid harsh deworming drugs. There are many natural ways to help your dog eliminate intestinal parasites. Read about these at the link below.
Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis (HGE) HGE is a serious problem that causes jelly-like, dark and bloody diarrhea. It can look a bit like strawberry jam. Often there’s bloody vomiting as well. If your dog seems to feel unwell, don’t hesitate to go to the vet.
HGE can come on very suddenly and it can be serious … even deadly. So if your dog is weak or lethargic, not eating, or has abdominal pain, contact your vet immediately. Dogs with HGE can quickly get dehydrated so he may need extra fluids. If you catch HGE early, your vet may give you subcutaneous fluids to give at home. But in severe cases, your dog might need to stay at the clinic to get IV fluids.
HGE may also sometimes be associated with pancreatitis. Acute pancreatitis also needs immediate vet treatment and can be a true emergency.
HGE is more common in small and toy breeds, often around 5 years old. The cause seems to be random and often unidentified. In some cases it can be caused by a bacterial infection like Clostridium perfringens. It can also happen if your dog eats something indigestible … like garbage or your shoes.
Rectal Injuries Rectal injuries can happen if your dog eats something sharp that causes damage. This could be a stick, needle, bone shard or other sharp object.
If your dog’s feeling normal with his usual energy, you can try home remedies to help expel the object. Try giving slippery elm powder mixed with warm water to make a gel. It soothes the digestive tract, and it can coat the object and help it pass.
If you suspect a bad tear, your dog will need a trip to the vet. He could require stitches or even surgery to remove the object.
Stress Stressful situations like a new dog, a new home, boarding or competition can cause your dog to have bloody stool. You’ll see soft stool with mucus and some blood. Stress-related problems should resolve in a day or so. You can give flower essences like Rescue Remedy to help your dog feel more confident.
How to Stop Blood In Your Dogs Stool (Best Proven Remedy)
Can dog food cause bloody diarrhoea? It’s possible for the food your dog eats to cause stomach upset, particularly when switching from puppy to adult dog food, and this can cause bloody diarrhoea. That’s why it’s important to introduce new food gradually.