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My 5-month puppy has bloody diarrhea, won't eat, and is sluggish. Why?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 15 days old | 30 lbs

My puppy has had diarrhea yesterday and this morning. This morning there was a lot of blood. He won't eat, but he drinks water. He seems very sluggish, but still wants to play. He had his parvo shot when he was younger, but he didn't get the booster. He is 5 months old.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Juliana, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 16th, 2017

Poor Cooper! Diarrhea with blood in puppies can be caused by eating things that upset their system, parasites like worms or giardia, or even viruses like parvo since he hasn't received all his vaccines. I would have him seen by a veterinarian for an exam. They will be able to make sure Cooper isn't getting too dehydrated and they can prescribe medication to help the diarrhea. I would also bring a stool sample in so they can test for parasites. If you cannot get in right away I would feed only a very bland diet of boiled chicken and white rice. I hope Cooper is feeling better soon!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Unfortunately with only one vaccine your puppy isn't fully protected against parvo virus. His symptoms are consistent with the disease. He could also have intestinal parasitism such as coccidia or hookworms. A visit to the vet should take place ASAP so they can test for parasites and parvo virus and treatment will depend on which condition he has! I would recommend taking him today, as if he does have parvo virus, delaying treatment could be detrimental.

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 12th, 2017

    I would be very worried about this. Oreo needs to see a vet ASAP. I suspect he may have parvovirus. Even though he has a had one vaccine he is not fully protected and can still get parvo. This can be life threatening so please get him to a vet ASAP for a parvo test. Even if he does not have parvo it is very concerning that he has this much diarrhea (especially bloody) - he can get dehydrated very easily being so small/young even if he is drinking some water. Also the lethargy and not eating are very concerning for a puppy this age. Please get him to a vet as soon as you can.

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