Searchbreed
Symptom guide · Depends on severity · Updated August 2026

Dog Loose Stool & Diarrhea

Soft or liquid stool — dietary indiscretion is most common; chronic cases point to food sensitivity or inflammatory disease.

Causes

7

Red flags

5

Prone breeds

5

Related

0

Triage

Depends on severity

A single day of soft stool in an otherwise-fine dog is usually self-limiting. Multiple days, blood, or lethargy means telehealth or in-person vet.

When to call the vet now

Any of these signs means telehealth isn't enough — get in-person vet care today.

  • ×blood in stool (bright red or black/tarry)
  • ×vomiting + diarrhea together
  • ×lethargy or not eating
  • ×puppies — dehydration sets in fast
  • ×lasts more than 48 hours
Causes

Common causes

  • —dietary indiscretion (ate something)
  • —sudden food change
  • —food allergy or sensitivity
  • —stress
  • —parasites (giardia, hookworm)
  • —inflammatory bowel disease
  • —pancreatitis
Breeds

Breeds most prone to loose stool & diarrhea

Not exhaustive — any dog can have this. These breeds are just more commonly affected.

Recommended

What can help

Products and services matched to this symptom.

telehealth

Dutch

24/7 vet care and prescriptions delivered

  • —Unlimited vet chats
  • —Rx delivered to door
  • —$11/month
  • —Covers anxiety, allergies, derm
See Dutch →
telehealth

Vetster

Book online vet appointments with licensed professionals

  • —Licensed vets online
  • —24/7 appointment access
  • —Video, chat, and voice
  • —Prescription support where permitted
See Vetster →
fresh food

The Farmer's Dog

Fresh, human-grade food portioned for your dog

  • —Human-grade fresh food
  • —Portioned per dog
  • —Vet-developed recipes
  • —50% off first box
See The Farmer's Dog →
fresh food

Ollie

Fresh food with both cooked and baked recipes

  • —Fresh and baked recipes
  • —Turkey, beef, lamb, chicken proteins
  • —Custom portions
  • —60% off first box
See Ollie →

Searchbreed is not a veterinary service and does not diagnose or prescribe. This is educational content to help you understand your dog's symptoms. For diagnosis and treatment, talk to a licensed vet.