Common Causes of Diarrhea in Puppies.

Common Causes of Diarrhea in Puppies.
Puppies go through many developmental changes during this early stage of their lives, including changes in diet, environment, and even daily experiences. These can add to the physical changes that puppies are already going through and can lead to unhealthy little conditions such as loose stools or diarrhea.
Diarrhea in puppies can range from a harmless temporary condition caused by eating something they shouldn't to a more serious illness. Chronic (more than a day or two) or severe diarrhea, especially when accompanied by vomiting or loss of appetite, should always be evaluated by a veterinarian. Diarrhea in puppies can lead to severe adhydration that can be fatal.
Perhaps you are starting crate training or returning to the office after a period of working from home. Changes such as these in your puppy's daily routine can cause separation anxiety and increased stress levels. In turn, stress can cause stress-related diarrhea. Take your time when it comes to life changes and work to acclimate your puppy to new people, places, or schedules. Sometimes all it takes is a little time to get your new puppy comfortable and reduce stress naturally.
Stress-related diarrhea is often considered 'self-limiting', which means that many puppies will get better on their own. Feeding slightly smaller light meals for a few days, or increasing the fiber content with canned pumpkin or another fiber-rich additive is sometimes enough to clear the body of diarrhea.
Some foreign bodies, such as rocks, socks, and toys, can cause life-threatening intestinal blockages and require advanced veterinary treatment, even surgery . In general, an obstruction usually leads to vomiting and is the primary clinical symptom, but occasionally it may be accompanied by diarrhea.
Contaminated or non-food substances can also induce diarrhea in puppies as the body tries to get rid of the toxin. Depending on what was ingested, diarrhea related to eating something rotten can occasionally be self-limiting. If the soft stools are accompanied by vomiting, not eating, or persist for more than 24 to 48 hours, veterinary attention should always be sought.
Another very common cause of diarrhea in dogs is a change in diet. An abrupt change in a puppy's diet can lead to diarrhea as the GI tract adjusts to a new source of protein or different ingredients. Ideally, when you bring a new puppy home, try to stay with the same food, gradually adding the new food. Over 5-7 days, start replacing a small portion of the old food with the new. Substitute more of the old food for the new food until the puppy is just eating the new food.
Along with the food changes, introducing new treats, bones, or other chew toys can cause diarrhea. Often, this type of diarrhea can get better on its own.
One of the most common puppy problems and causes of diarrhea are intestinal parasites. Intestinal parasites are commonly passed from the bitch to her puppies through the placenta, nursing, or if she is eliminating the parasite in her feces. A large enough parasite load can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and health problems in puppies. Affected puppies usually have a swollen appearance in the abdomen. Puppies with diarrhea due to intestinal parasites can pass the parasites to other pets, and some parasites can be transmitted to humans. Part of a puppy check-up routine will include a dewormer, in addition to vaccinations, to prevent this.
Infections with bacteria, such as E. coli, or viruses, such as Parvovirus, are another frequent cause of diarrhea in dogs. Canine parvovirus is highly contagious and can cause severe, life-threatening diarrhea. It is more common in puppies, as most adult dogs have been vaccinated or previously exposed to Parvo. This viral cause of diarrhea is transmitted by direct contact with infected dogs or contaminated objects and soil. Fortunately, Parvo vaccines are highly effective and protect dogs that come into contact with the virus.
Bacterial infections can be largely prevented by maintaining clean hygiene and discouraging behaviors such as coprophagia (poop eating) .
Treatment of diarrhea in puppies can take many forms, depending on the underlying cause. If your puppy is experiencing severe or chronic diarrhea, it is essential that he receive treatment immediately. This is especially important if the soft stools are accompanied by vomiting or decreased appetite.
Treatment of diarrhea in puppies can take many forms, depending on the underlying cause. If your puppy has severe or chronic diarrhea, it is essential that he receives immediate treatment.