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Why is my dog's poop green all of a sudden? Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 6 years and 11 months old | 15.4 lbs

What does it mean if theres just a little green in my dogs poop? And this is the first time it has happened?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 31st, 2017

Stool can change color based on what a dog has eaten. Button may have gotten into something in the yard or snatched some people food or had his diet changed. There are some less likely metabolic issues that can cause very green stool but in the absence of other signs I would not be too worried about this. As long as Buttons is acting normal and his stools are formed (not runny or soft) I would not worry.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on

    What goes in must come out! The most common cause for green flecks in stool would be something green that Button ate. Check around the house for any green things he may have eaten (toys, Astro turf, grass, etc). Also, if you have any rat bait or rat bait stations, this poison is commonly green and will come out in the stool. If you have this product around your house (even if it is behind the stove or under the fridge!) you should see your vet immediately!!

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    Answered By Dr. Kristin DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Although there are other things that might cause you to find green in your dogs poop, my main concern would be for rodenticide ingestion (mouse bait). This is most commonly green. If you have any of this in the house, I would be even more concerned. Dogs can eat other foreign objects or plant material that can make the poop look "green-ish" but if it is bright green, then please head to your veterinarian ASAP. There is treatment that can be done before serious problems arise from ingestion of rodenticide. If you have a sample you can take with you to the veterinarian that might be helpful, and if you have put mouse bait out somewhere, please bring the box with you to your veterinarian. If there is no possible exposure to rodenticide, and it is only a green hue, then I wouldn't worry unless it continues for more than 48 hours or Button starts acting sick. But if there is any possibility of rodenticide, please take this seriously and head to your veterinarian.

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