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Why is my dog straining with diarrhea, scooting, panting, and bloated?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Labrador | Male | neutered | 5 years old | 84 lbs

3yr Labrador has diarrhea. Only today. Straining and very little coming out. Is drinking and eating. Hasn't vomited that we know. Is dragging bottom. Panting a bit more . Gum normal. Could be a bit bloated. Doesn't appear in pain or tender.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on January 3rd, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Takoda! Causes of diarrhea are: intestinal parasites, viral or bacterial infections, dietary indiscretion (ate something gross), pancreatitis, toxin ingestion, medications, food allergy/intolerance, new treat/food/table scraps. The straining is due to inflammation and that he feels like he has to defecate but there is little to no stool left. The scooting can be from anal irritation, stool stuck to his anus (check and clean) or his anal glands are full If the diarrhea is bad, then I recommend fasting him for 12-24 hours to rest his GIT and to stop adding "fuel to the fire." Then start a bland diet of boiled chicken or hamburger with rice. Feed 1 cup per 20 lbs per day until 2 normal stools. If the diarrhea continues, he stops eating or starts vomiting he should see your Vet. I hope this helps and I wish Takoda a speedy recovery!

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