Why Are My Dogs Stools So Loose?

If your are on a walk and you notice that your dog’s stools have suddenly turn soft, mushy, or watery, it can be worrying. Loose stools in dogs are extremely common, but they’re also a sign that something isn’t quite right in your pup’s digestive system.

Whether the issue is mild and temporary or something that requires a vet visit, understanding the possible reasons why your dogs stools are loose can help you respond quickly and keep your dog feeling their best.

Understanding Loose Stools in Dogs

A healthy dog poop should be firm, shaped, and easy to pick up. When it becomes loose or unformed, it means your dog’s intestines are moving too quickly or not absorbing nutrients properly. Occasional soft stool isn’t usually a medical emergency, but frequent loose stools, diarrhea, or long-term digestive issues may indicate an underlying problem that needs attention.

Common Reasons Your Dog Has Loose Stools

1. Sudden Diet Change

Dogs have sensitive digestive systems, and switching food too quickly can cause immediate stomach upset. If you recently changed your dog’s food, whether it’s a new brand, flavor, or protein source, this may be the culprit. Even adding new treats or table scraps can cause loose stools.

2. Food Intolerances or Sensitivities

Some dogs struggle to digest certain proteins, grains, or food additives. When their system reacts, it often shows up as chronic loose stools, gas, or frequent stomach rumbling. If you notice persistent digestive issues after certain foods, a dietary intolerance may be to blame.

3. Stress or Anxiety

Just like humans, dogs can develop digestive upset during stressful situations. Loud noises, travel, schedule changes, boarding, or new pets in the home can all lead to temporary loose stools.

4. Eating Something They Shouldn’t

Dogs love exploring with their mouths. Trash, spoiled food, plants, “found snacks” on walks, or especially foreign objects can irritate your dog’s stomach and cause loose stool or even full diarrhea. Even when your dog counter surfs, it can cause loose stools.

5. Parasites

Intestinal parasites, like hookworms, roundworms, or whipworms can often cause soft stool, diarrhea, weight loss, or bloating. Puppies and dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors are especially susceptible.

6. Infections

Bacterial or viral infections (like parvovirus or salmonella) can cause significant digestive upset. These often appear suddenly and may be accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

7. Food Too High in Fat

High-fat diets, rich treats, or fatty table scraps can irritate the pancreas and intestines. Even a single high-fat meal can trigger loose stools, greasy poop, or intestinal cramps.

8. Chronic Digestive Conditions

Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colitis, or pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) can cause long-term loose stools or chronic diarrhea. These typically require veterinary care and ongoing management.

9. Medications or Antibiotics

Certain medications can disrupt your dog’s gut bacteria. Antibiotics, in particular, are notorious for causing soft stools until the intestinal microbiome rebalances.

When Loose Stools Are a Red Flag

Loose stools aren’t always serious, but some symptoms mean your dog should see a vet soon.

Red flag symptoms:

Blood in the stool (bright red or black and tarry)

Persistent diarrhea lasting more than 48–72 hours

Vomiting along with loose stools

Dehydration

Lethargy or weakness

Significant abdominal pain or bloating

Weight loss

Stool that changes color dramatically (gray, orange, or very pale)

Any of these signs may indicate infection or a more serious digestive condition.

How to Help Firm Up Your Dog’s Stool

Before making any changes, always consider your dog’s age, health history, and whether the symptoms are mild or severe. And, of course, your vet is always the best resource to discuss your dog’s diet. However, many dogs with simple digestive upset, a few home interventions can help.

1. Switch to a Bland Diet Temporarily

A short-term bland diet can give the intestines time to settle.

Most vets recommend:

Boiled chicken or turkey

Plain white rice

Pumpkin purée (unsweetened) for added fiber

If your dog improves, you can slowly transition back to their normal food over several days.

2. Add Gentle Fiber

Pumpkin, plain canned green beans, or your vet’s recommended fiber supplement may help bulk up stools. Fiber can regulate digestion whether the stool is too loose or too firm.

3. Probiotics for Dogs

There are probiotics for dogs that can really help restore your dog’s healthy gut bacteria and can support dogs with sensitive stomachs, stress-related diarrhea, or mild food intolerances.

4.  Keep Your Dog Hydrated

Loose stools can lead to dehydration, especially in small dogs. Make sure fresh water is always available. Broth or electrolyte solutions made for pets may also help.

5. Prevent Dietary Mishaps

If your dog frequently eats scraps, trash, or unfamiliar foods, tightening up their environment and feeding routine may stop digestive issues before they start.

Can Loose Stools Be Prevented?

In many cases, yes. Feeding consistent meals, avoiding sudden diet changes, using slow transitions when switching foods, and limiting treats can drastically reduce your dog’s digestive upset. Routine vet exams and parasite testing are also key to keeping your dog’s digestion healthy year-round.

When to Call the Vet

If your dog’s loose stools last more than two days, are reoccurring or appear alongside other concerning symptoms, it’s time to consult your veterinarian. Persistent soft stool can indicate parasites, infection, or a chronic digestive issue that should be diagnosed and treated early.

The Bottom Line

Loose stools in dogs are common, but they’re also a sign that something is off in your dog’s digestive health. Most mild cases resolve quickly with dietary adjustments and a little rest. But if the symptoms linger or your dog seems unwell, your vet can help determine the cause and guide you toward the right treatment.