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New shelter dog has diarrhea. Is this normal after adoption?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

We just adopted a shelter dog a few days ago and he's had some stomach upset (diarrhea). Is that normal?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

Veterinarian

Published on October 19th, 2015

Stress, change of diet, parasites, etc can cause diarrhea. It can be normal for a dog that is new to the home. I would recommend giving him bland food for a couple days, such as boiled chicken and rice. If no improvement, contact your vet.

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4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on February 22nd, 2019

    It maybe stress related or not. Submit a stool sample to your veterinarian to diagnose intestinal parasites. If Shiloh is behaving normally otherwise, you can try fasting him for 24 hours. Allow small amounts of water or unflavored PediaLyte during this time. Resume feeding a bland diet in small, frequent amounts. Begin with 1 tablespoon of food every hour and gradually increase the amount. Feed bland until the stool is normal, then transition slowly to the regular diet. If the diarrhea persists, then an exam with your vet would be recommended. A pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar or DAP plug in diffuser), may help decrease any anxiety associated with your new addition.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 13th, 2018

    Sudden changes in diet can lead to diarrhea, and it can take a bit for it to resolve. I can give you a home remedy to try to see if that helps Molly. Withhold food for 12-24 hours, then feed a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken (no bones) and white rice in small amounts several times a day for a couple of days. Then slowly add back in her normal diet. If the diarrhea continues on the bland diet, she starts vomiting food, stops drinking water, starts vomiting water, or becomes very lethargic, she will need to see a vet right away. I hope this helps!

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