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My puppy has loose stools with blood and mucus. Should I be concerned?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 30 days old | 7 lbs

Hi my puppy has had loose stools for about 4 days now, today I noticed a small amount of bright red blood in his stool and it has some mucous looking stuff in it as well. He is up to date on all wormings and vaccines and on heartworm,tick,and flea meds. He is acting normal and eating and drinking normal. Should I be highly concerned? I have an appointment scheduled for tomorrow for him.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on January 28th, 2019

Persistent diarrhoea and straining will often be accompanied by some bright red blood due to injury to the lining of the bowel. Worms, infections, dietary intolerance and changes to diet (including new treats/raiding garbage etc) can all trigger such signs and symptoms and as long as he is bright and eating I would not be overly concerned overnight

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22Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Jenny, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 7th, 2017

    A few drops with loose stool is not an emergency since he is eating and drinking and playful. This is common in puppies and can be due to a diet change or the stress of a new home and routine. If he becomes all blood or he is lethargic with vomiting and no appetite, then it is a concern and he will need to be seen right away. You can always feed boiled chicken and rice to see if that helps and transition him back to a puppy diet after a few days of adjusting.

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