Dog Diarrhea: Causes, When to Worry, and When to Seek Care 

Diarrhea is a common issue in dogs and can range from mild and short-lived to a sign of a more serious  underlying condition. While some cases resolve on their own, others require prompt veterinary attention. 

Knowing what to watch for can help you determine when it’s time to seek care. 

Common Causes of Diarrhea in Dogs 

Diarrhea can be caused by a variety of factors, many of which involve irritation or inflammation of the  gastrointestinal tract. Common causes include: 

• Dietary indiscretion (eating garbage, spoiled food, or unfamiliar items) 
• Sudden diet changes 
• Food intolerance or allergies 
• Intestinal parasites (roundworms, hookworms, giardia) 
• Bacterial or viral infections 
• Stress or anxiety 
• Toxin ingestion 
• Pancreatitis 
• Chronic conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease 

Some cases are mild and self-limiting, while others may worsen without treatment.

When Should You Be Concerned? 

Not all diarrhea is an emergency, but certain signs indicate your dog should be evaluated by a  veterinarian. 

You should seek care if your dog: 

• Has diarrhea lasting more than 24–48 hours 
• Is experiencing frequent or large volumes of diarrhea 
• Has blood in the stool (bright red or black/tarry) 
• Is also vomiting
• Appears lethargic or weak 
• Is not eating or drinking 
• Shows signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes) 
• Is a puppy, senior dog, or has underlying health conditions

If your dog may have ingested something harmful or inappropriate, it’s best to have them evaluated  sooner rather than later. 

How We Diagnose Diarrhea in Dogs 

At Nexus Veterinary Urgent Care, we focus on identifying the underlying cause so we can treat the problem  effectively. 

Diagnostics may include: 

• Fecal testing to check for parasites 
• Bloodwork to evaluate organ function and hydration 
• X-rays if obstruction or foreign material is a concern 
• AFAST/TFAST ultrasound scan for further evaluation of the gastrointestinal tract Not every case requires extensive testing—our team will guide you based on your pet’s specific situation.

‍Treatment Options 

Treatment depends on the cause, severity, and overall health of your dog. 

Common treatments may include: 

• Fiber supplementation to firm up stool 
• Probiotics to support gut health 
• Fluid therapy to correct dehydration 
• Deworming medications if parasites are suspected or confirmed 
• Dietary recommendations (bland or prescription diets) 
• Antibiotics in select cases 

More severe cases may require hospitalization for supportive care. 

When in Doubt, Give Us a Call

We provide same-day urgent care to help your pet get the care they need as soon as possible in Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk. Visit us at 1124 Lynnhaven Parkway, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 or call us at 757-974-8111.