No doubt about it, puppies are irresistibly cute and cuddly! But if you've ever welcomed one of these furry friends into your home before, then you know that there can be some challenges along the way. One such issue is diarrhoea – nothing too major but definitely something you should keep an eye on to make sure your pup stays happy and healthy. Knowing what causes puppy diarrhoea (and how to help) will go a long way in making sure they stay fit as a fiddle!
Causes of Puppy Diarrhoea
There are a number of factors that can contribute to puppy diarrhoea. Some of the most common causes include:
Dietary Changes
Puppies are sensitive to changes in their diet, and a sudden change in food can lead to digestive upset. This is particularly true if you switch from a lower-quality dog food to a higher-quality one. In this case, the new food may be too rich for your puppy's digestive system to handle.
Parasites
Puppies are particularly susceptible to parasitic infections, such as roundworms, hookworms, and giardia. These parasites can cause diarrhoea, as well as other symptoms like vomiting and lethargy. Parasites are typically contracted through contact with infected faeces, so it's important to keep your puppy away from areas where other dogs may have defecated.
Stress
Stress can have a major impact on a puppy's digestive system, particularly if they are in a new environment or are experiencing a significant life change. Separation anxiety, for example, can cause diarrhoea in puppies who are left alone for extended periods of time.
Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections, such as salmonella or E. coli, can also cause diarrhoea in puppies. These infections are typically contracted through contaminated food or water.
Viral Infections
Viral infections, such as parvovirus or distemper, can cause diarrhoea as well as other symptoms like vomiting and fever. These infections can be very serious and can even be fatal if not treated promptly.
How to Help Your Puppy with Diarrhoea
If your puppy is experiencing diarrhoea, there are several things you can do to help them feel better. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Monitor Your Puppy's Condition
The first step in helping your puppy is to monitor their condition closely. Keep an eye on their appetite, water intake, and behaviour. If their condition doesn't improve within a day or two, it's important to seek veterinary care.
Keep Your Puppy Hydrated
It's important to make sure your puppy stays hydrated, especially if they are experiencing diarrhoea. Offer them small amounts of water frequently throughout the day. You can also offer them an electrolyte solution, which can help replace lost fluids and nutrients.
Adjust Your Puppy's Diet
If your puppy's diarrhoea is caused by a dietary change, you may need to adjust their diet accordingly. Consider switching back to their previous food or gradually introducing new food to their diet over several days.
Treat Parasitic Infections
If your puppy's diarrhoea is caused by parasites, your vet may prescribe medication to help treat the infection. They may also recommend regular deworming to help prevent future infections.
All-natural diarrhoea relief
Try using a diarrhoea relief for puppies that is suitable for use from six weeks plus. You should try to find one with added electrolytes that contains no artificial ingredients.
Manage Stress
If your puppy's diarrhoea is caused by stress, it's important to try to manage their stress levels. Consider giving them a comfortable and secure place to rest, providing plenty of toys and activities to keep them occupied, and spending quality time with them to help alleviate anxiety.