Let’s Talk Dog Feces with Dr. Angie Krause (DVM, CVA, CCRT)
Dog feces can tell you a lot about their diet and overall gut health. In this article, I’m going to walk you through how often your puppy should have a bowel movement, what the feces should look like, and what changes may indicate a problem. Knowing what’s normal and what’s not is key to keeping your dog healthy and happy.
Frequency.
Most dogs defecate 1-2 times per day. If your dog is on a raw food diet, bowel movements may be less frequent – sometimes only every other day. If your puppy is having more than two bowel movements per day, this could mean that their diet is too high in fiber or not easily digested. On the other hand, if bowel movements are more than a day apart, it could mean dehydration, lack of fiber, or an underlying health issue. If you’re concerned about whether or not your dog’s sleep schedule is affecting their overall health, this guide to whether or not your dog is sleeping too much may be helpful.
Consistency.
Healthy feces should be hard, log-like, and easy to clean up without leaving a residue. Loose or watery stools may indicate problems such as food sensitivities, parasites, poor quality food, excess fiber, or intestinal inflammation. Hard, dry feces that look like small pellets may mean your dog is constipated. This can be caused by dehydration, insufficient fiber, food sensitivities, or inflammation of the digestive system.
Color
The ideal poop color is dark brown. However, if your dog’s diet is high in minerals, amino acids or rabbit protein, the poop may be lighter in color. One of the most important colors to be concerned about is black, which indicates bleeding in the digestive tract and requires a visit to the veterinarian. If the poop is always green or orange in color, this is also a sign that a veterinarian needs to be consulted.
Tips for Improving Poop
If your dog’s poop is less than ideal, you can try the following:
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Probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that aid in digestion and improve stool quality. You can find probiotics in Zera’s Naked Essentials Duck & Chicken, or you can purchase them separately in capsule form. For extra help, you can even make your own probiotic-rich foods at home.
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Digestive Supplements. Natural supplements such as licorice, glutamine and chamomile help soothe and repair the intestinal lining. These are great for supporting your pup’s digestion and overall gut health.
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Change protein sources. Food sensitivities and allergies are common in dogs. If you suspect this is the problem, try changing the protein source. For example, if your dog eats beef, chicken or lamb, consider recipes like Zera’s Nude Super Food Simply Sea.
Your dog’s feces are a great clue to his health, and subtle changes can make a huge difference. Do you have questions about your dog’s feces? I’d love to hear from you!
Love.
Dr. Angie