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My dog has small, runny stools for a week. Is it a blockage? Vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | 10 months and 28 days old

My dog’s stool has been infrequent, small, and runny for almost a week. We changed foods a few weeks ago - he is now on a higher protein food that I know can make his stools smaller - and phased him from one to the other without an issue. I am concerned that he may be constipated/have a blockage from eating a bully stick and stuffed beef esophagus that he devoured last weekend. He’s not showing any other symptoms. Should I take him to the vet or can I do something myself to help with his bowels?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 12th, 2018

Thank you for contacting Pet Coach about your concerns with Fiddle! There could be a couple of reasons why his stools have changed recently. It certainly is possible that he has a blockage from the bully stick and/or beef esophagus. Intestinal blockages can and do cause a reduction in stools and diarrhea. It could also be that he has intestinal worms or a GI illness causing these symptoms among other causes. Given that it's been almost a week now, I do recommend taking him into a vet. I would feel comfortable trying a home remedy if this problem had been going on for around 24 hours, but problems occurring this length in time do require a vet visit. In addition, because there is a concern his problems could be due to a blockage, that makes it even more important he sees a vet. I would take him into a vet today if possible; otherwise, get him into one first thing in the morning. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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