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Worried: My playful puppy has diarrhea. Is it parvo or distemper?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pointer | Female | unspayed | 6 months and 1 day old | 35 lbs

Can a puppy have a serious illness like parvo or distemper but still be very hyper and playful? Eating and drinking the same. No vomiting or changes. Just frequent sudden diarrhea. Vet can’t see her for a week, and worried to wait that long if it’s serious.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on September 22nd, 2018

Usually dogs with parvovirus or distemper are very lethargic and ill. If your dog is eating and drinking fine and has lots of energy then I don’t think the diarrhea is from either of those diseases. I do recommend a fecal exam soon, perhaps you can drop one off before your appointment to check for intestinal parasites that could cause diarrhea. Also I would monitor what she’s eating and check to make sure she’s not getting into things she shouldn’t in the yard. She’s a puppy and they love to eat anything! Should she become lethargic, stop eating or the diarrhea worsens then don’t wait, take her in to a veterinarian right away for treatment. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for your dog.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC

    Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

    Published on April 1st, 2018

    Hello, Diarrhea in a young puppy is concerning for parasitism, parvovirus or even an intestinal obstruction. On the contrary, Piper simply may have eaten something that resulted in intestinal inflammation. I would advise you to have Piper examined by a veterinarian If the diarrhea persists for 24hrs or longer, if she stops eating or develops vomiting.

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