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My puppy has soft, runny stool and poops too often. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 3 months and 27 days old | 30 lbs

My puppy has not had solid stool since he was adopted at 9 weeks. Half the time it has form but is very soft and usually leaves a mark when picked up. The other half of the time it is more liquid-like. Part of the reason may be his food (which he likes) and another reason could be that he is still pooping around 5 times a day. I have recently tried giving him rice with his food but he doesn't seem to like that method. Is there another thing you recommend I try or is this expected with puppies?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on April 3rd, 2017

Poor Walker! It isn't normal for puppies to poop this often or to have such soft, runny stool - so I would be concerned that something is wrong. The most common cause of soft stool like this in a puppy this age is intestinal parasites, so if he hasn't been dewormed recently, this is something you might consider doing. Other possibilities would include an intestinal infection of some kind, or a food allergy or intolerance to something in his diet. If deworming doesn't help, I would recommend taking him to the vet for a check-up. He/she can do a fecal exam or other testing if needed to help diagnose the problem and get him started on appropriate medication to treat it.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Maria DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 3rd, 2018

    I recommend taking Oscar to a veterinarian. I am concerned that Oscar may have intestinal parasites. The veterinarian can run a stool sample to check. They can also provide a general dewormer. I would also make sure that Oscar didn't get into anything and that you are not introducing a lot of different food and treats into his diet at once. If you introduce a lot into his diet this can also create soft stool or diarrhea in dogs. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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