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My dog has diarrhea, straining, ate paper towels. Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 35 lbs

My 1 year old border collie/lab had diarrhea followed by loose stool the last few days. She seems to be straining. We moved a week ago, but she hasn't had an issue traveling before. Also, we know she chewed up a roll of paper towels a few days ago. Not sure how much she ingested. She's been waking up at abnormal hours of the night to go out as well. Should we be concerned?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on October 17th, 2017

HI, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Lacey! If she is eating and not vomiting and is passing stool (despite the straining and it being loose) then I wouldn't be too concerned. Hopefully she is just dealing with diarrhea. The diarrhea can be from stress of moving, ate something gross that is upsetting her tummy, a virus or bacterial infection, parasites, the paper towels could be causing a blockage, pancreatitis, toxin ingestion, food allergy/ sensitivity. Since she is waking up overnight I would fast her for 12-24 hours to rest the intestinal tract then restart feeding as a bland diet of boiled chicken or hamburger with rice. Feed 1 cup per 20 lbs per day until 2 days of normal stools. If the stool hasn't improved in 2-3 days, she stops eating, starts vomiting or becomes lethargic I would have her examined by a Vet. I hope this helps and I wish Lacey a speedy recovery!

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