Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My new 9-week-old puppy has diarrhea. How can I treat it at home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | West Highland White Terrier | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 3 days old

Hi! I wonder is someone can help us. We got 9 weeks old westie. His name is Niko. We got him 2 nights ago. And since yesterday he started to have diahorea. He is due one more vacination in a weeks time and so far his vacinstions up to date. Can you please advice how shall we treat him? We took him on the grass yesterday twice for a brief 3 min walk. Could it be caused by walk?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Amber Da Silva, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 2nd, 2017

It is very common for puppies to have diarrhea. This can happen with intestinal parasites, infectious diseases such as parvo virus, change in diet or even stress from the change in homes. It's possible that he also picked up and ate something off the grass that upset his system. If he's normal otherwise (no vomiting, good appetite, normal activity level) you could start by giving him plain boiled chicken breast and plain white rice in a 1 to 1 ratio. You can also add a small amount of pumpkin puree as the fiber can help firm up the stools. If the diarrhea continues or he becomes ill, starts vomiting, acting lethargic, or doesn't want to eat, I would strongly recommend taking him to a veterinarian right away. They will most likely want to do a fecal exam to check for parasites, a parvo test to check for this very serious illness and may even do blood work and x-rays to look for evidence of a stomach or intestinal blockage. This is very common in puppies since they like to chew on and swallow things they shouldn't.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi there and thanks for posting your question! I'm sure Niko is quite the cute puppy? Given Niko's age, I would certainly be concerned about him poasibly having canine parvo virus. This is a virus that mainly attacks the intestines and can be a serious condition, especially for a dog Niko's age. Of course a new diet and adjusting to a new feeding routine could certainly play a role in the diarrhea. I would strongly encourage you to schedule an appointment as soon as you can with you veterinarian. For the appointment, I would recommend bringing a stool sample in with you if possible as ruling out intestinal parasites is definitely a priority as well. Intestinal parasites such as roundworm, hookworm, tapeworm, coccidia, etc can lead to diarrhea. I would also suggest you have Niko tested for parvo as well. If you have any further questions or concerns, pleasr do not hesitate to contact me.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 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
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog rubs belly & scratches face, no fleas. Could it be allergies?
Does your dog rub her belly and scratch her face without fleas? A certified vet discusses possible causes like allergies, infection, or mites. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored