Diarrhea is a common, unpleasant, occurrence in dogs that is typically a symptom of a medical issue, such as parasites or food allergies. Since diarrhea can lead to additional problems, including dehydration, take your pooch to a veterinarian for treatment as soon as the gastrointestinal upset begins.
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Intestinal Parasites
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Intestinal parasites are often the cause of diarrhea, states Dr. Holly Nash of Doctors Foster and Smith. These parasites are common in puppies, but can also affect adult dogs. Typical parasites include roundworms, hookworm, whipworms, coccidia and giardia. Dogs can contract intestinal parasites in a variety of ways, such by eating infected stools or from its mother while still in her womb. A veterinarian can check for parasites by looking for their eggs in the dog's feces. Veterinarian-prescribed medication often resolves the parasite problem. Most heartworm preventatives also protect against internal parasites.
Food Intolerance
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According to Dr. Bari Spielman of Pet Place, food intolerance--also called food allergies--is another cause of diarrhea in dogs. When dogs are unable to properly absorb or digest certain foods, such as milk or gluten, they can experience sudden diarrhea accompanied by gas. You can make a food intolerance diagnosis by removing the suspected problem-causing component from the diet and seeing how the dog responds. Then, add the component back in to the diet. If the dog develops diarrhea again, it is likely allergic to that substance, and needs to avoid it.
Bacterial Infections
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Young dogs placed in a kennel or having immune system problems are prone to bacterial infections that result in diarrhea, says Dr. Nash. Bacteria, such as salmonella, e. coli or campylobacter, can cause a dog to suffer from bloody diarrhea that is often accompanied by fever, vomiting, depression and loss of appetite. A microscopic examination or culture of the stool will diagnose bacterial infections. Dogs with these infections are often placed on intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration, along with antibiotics.
Tumors
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Chronic diarrhea may indicate intestinal tumors, such as lymphoma and adenocarcinoma. These can also cause weight loss, vomiting and poor appetite in dogs. Tumors typically affect older or middle-aged canines, but can occur at any age. Diagnosis is through physical exams and intestinal biopsies; treatment may include chemotherapy or surgery to remove the tumors.
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