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My dog is constipated, straining, with blood and diarrhea. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 8 years and 5 months old

Dog is constipated he has just a little Diarrhea coming and a little blood due to straining What can i do to help him

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 21st, 2021

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Buddy. I recommend that he sees a veterinarian today if possible. Blood in the stool is worrisome. It can be due to inflammation in the colon and straining to defecate. However, it can also indicate a more serious condition such as pancreatitis or hemorrhagic gastroenteritis. The veterinarian will examine him and may perform fecal tests and bloodwork. Constipation is usually seen with small hard feces being passed. Diarrhea is a more common of straining to defecate. In the meantime, encourage him to drink water as this can help to prevent dehydration. The veterinarian will prescribe medication to help him. I hope this information helps!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 15th, 2017

    Poor Odie! If hes been having diarrhea, there is a good chance that he has “run out” of feces. He likely has the urgency to go but just doesn’t have anything left. the blood is concerning to me. It just be a little irritation or it could be something more serious like hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE). HGE can cause severe dehydration if left untreated. You can try some plain boiled chicken and rice to see if this settles his tummy. I would also have your vet take a look at him. Your vet will be able to do a fecal and bloodwork or X-rays if needed. Your vet will also be able to assess his hydration and start him on fluids if needed. Your vet will also be able to start him on the proper meds to help him feel better. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Amber Da Silva, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 28th, 2017

    This sounds pretty typical of a condition called colitis. It is an inflammation in the large intestine that causes diarrhea, fresh blood and straining. The most common causes of colitis are a change in diet or stress, but it can be secondary to parasites or several other conditions as well. If he's still acting totally normal, you could start by fasting him overnight. In the morning, introduce a bland diet of plain boiled chicken and white rice. You can also add a little canned pumpkin puree as the fiber can help to firm up the stools. Sometimes this is enough to stop the diarrhea. If the diarrhea continues or he develops other symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy or poor appetite, I would recommend taking him to a veterinarian. They will most likely recommend a fecal exam to look for parasites. They may also recommend a parvo test, blood work and x-rays to determine what is causing his symptoms. I hope this helps and that Rustt will feel better soon!

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 1st, 2020

    Hello. Blue has developed a pretty significant enteritis. Some of these are self-limiting, others require medical treatment. He will probably be fine to wait until tomorrow to be seen, especially since he is otherwise acting OK, but if he is still passing the blood, do have him seen. You do not want this to continue too long. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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