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My dog has diarrhea for a week but seems fine. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered

My small breed poodle has had diarrhea for about a week now. It has been on and off. He doesn't act he is sick. He runs and plays like he normally does. His poop is light brown liquid. Sometimes he squats to poop and nothing comes out. I have kept him hydrated. I have kept him from eating for 24 hours and he still has diarrhea. What do I need to do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 8th, 2018

The diarrhea could be from a stress colitis, dietary indiscretion, intestinal parasitism or possibly an infection. You have already rested Winslow's intestines, so now you can start feeding a bland diet. Boil white rice with white boneless chicken and feed that for two days. Then start replacing that with his regular food over three to four days. This should clear up the diarrhea. If your dog still has diarrhea after that you will need to take him to a veterinarian for an exam, as there may be a more serious cause of the diarrhea. Make sure he has fresh water available at all times.

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 9th, 2018

    HI, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Winslow! There are many causes of diarrhea and a diagnosis can not be made from looking at the stool. Possible causes are: intestinal parasites, viral or bacterial infections, dietary indiscretion, pancreatitis, pancreatic insufficiency, intestinal disease like IBD, food allergy/intolerance or a reaction to a new treat/food/table scraps. If the diarrhea is bad: waking you up at night, accidents in the house and/or asking to go out frequently I would fast him for 12-24 hours again. A week of diarrhea is a long time and I suggest you consider a Vet appointment. I would restart feeding with a bland diet of either boiled chicken breast or hamburger mixed with rice. Feed 1 cup per 20 lbs per day until 2 normal stools. GI upset heals faster with the prescription diets like Hill's i/d or Royal Canin GI. I would also add a probiotic like Purina Fortiflora. If his stool doesn't start to improve he should see a Vet for medications and have a stool sample checked for parasites. I wish Winsolw the best!

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