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My puppy has eye discharge and diarrhea. Is it serious if he's eating?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 4 days old | 10 lbs

I have a puppy that has been eating and drinking normally, but he has bad eye discharge and diarrhea, what could this be

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on January 8th, 2017

Poor Finn! Eye discharge is most often caused by an eye infection or a corneal injury such as a scratch or ulcer. Diarrhea in a puppy this age is often caused by intestinal parasites, an upset stomach due to something he ate, or an infection of some kind. I would recommend taking Finn to the vet as soon as you are able to - he/she can do a fecal exam to check for parasites or other problems, and will also examine his eyes to determine what is causing the discharge. The vet will prescribe appropriate medication to treat these issues depending on what is found.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It sounds like Finn has two things going on at the moment. The diarrhea may be caused by intestinal parasites, GI illness, eating something rotten, or a foreign body. Intestinal parasites are very common in puppies, and I would make sure he is up to date on his deworming treatments. The bad eye discharge is indicative of an eye infection, and that requires an immediate trip to the vet. Any eye infection should be considered an emergency, as leaving it untreated can lead to vision loss. I would find a vet on call to see Finn now, who can diagnose and treat his eye infection, and can diagnose the cause his diarrhea and treat it as well.

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