Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is there a small bit of blood in my dog's poop after new food?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 11.5 lbs

We noticed once yesterday and this morning there was a small bit of blood in my dog's stool. She had 2 bowel movements in between that looked normal. She started a new food on Tuesday

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Anna M., DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 30th, 2017

Hello, looks like Izzy is having a little mild colitis, which is common when there is a change in diet. Ideally diet changes are done very gradually over the course of a week or two, but even if done gradually sometimes the change can cause mild GI troubles. The frequency you've seen so far of soft stools is pretty mild - if it's just been the two episodes you can keep an eye on things, and it may just take her body a few more days to adjust to the new food. If it starts to get worse, you can put her on a bland, easily digested food for a few days (white rice and boiled chicken breast) and then gradually add in her kibbles again. If that doesn't resolve it, or if it is getting quickly worse, then it's worth taking Izzy to the vet in case she needs meds to calm her GI tract down. Your vet may also recommend checking a fresh stool sample to make sure there are no intestinal parasites. Hope this helps.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 13th, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. These two things are definitely related! Diarrhea with blood is the hallmark of colitis (inflammation of the colon). It is usually caused by rapid change in diet, eating something naughty (getting into trash/something outside), or stress (boarding, change in routine or household). Percy had two of those three so I am not surprised at all that this happened. The good news is that the amount of blood is almost never a concern and that, like you’ve seen, the diarrhea usually goes away in a few days once diet/routine are back to normal. Next time, try to head this off by providing your friend with the exact food you want Percy to have. Percy may still get “stress colitis” from the change in routine. If it is frequent or becomes a problem, pro-biotics and anti-anxiety medication given while you are away can help too. Hope this helps and best of luck to you and Percy!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored