Your dog has loose stools, and you are worried. This is one of the most common reasons UK dog owners rush to the vet. The good news is that most cases of dog diarrhoea are mild and sort themselves out within a day or two.

This guide will help you understand why it happens, what you can do at home, what to feed your dog, and most importantly, when it is time to call your vet. Everything here is written in simple language, so you can act fast when your dog needs you.

What Is Dog Diarrhoea?

Dog diarrhoea means your dog is passing loose, watery, or very soft stools more often than normal. It is not a disease on its own. It is a sign that something is going on inside your dog's digestive system.

Diarrhoea in dogs falls into two main types. Acute diarrhoea comes on suddenly and usually lasts less than two weeks. Chronic diarrhoea lasts longer than 2 weeks and requires proper veterinary investigation.

According to the RVC, gastrointestinal issues are among the top five reasons dogs are brought to UK veterinary practices.

Need Dog Digestive Care Products?

Visit Buggaz.co.uk for probiotics, bland diet food, and more — delivered to your door across the UK.

Shop Now →

Royal Canin Digestive Care Loaf

Buy Now

Royal Canin Maxi Digestive Care

Buy Now

Royal Canin Digestive Care

Buy Now

Common Causes

Dog diarrhoea has many possible causes. Some are simple and harmless. Others need veterinary help. Here is a breakdown of the most common reasons dogs in the UK get diarrhoea.

According to the RVC, dietary indiscretion remains the leading cause of acute diarrhoea in UK dogs. The BVA reports that over 60% of mild diarrhoea cases resolve within 48 hours with basic home care.

Eating the Wrong Things

This is the number one cause. Dogs eat things they should not — rubbish bin scraps, cat food, fallen fruit in the garden, mud, or anything they find on a walk. Their stomach reacts and diarrhoea follows, usually within hours.

Sudden Food Changes

Switching dog food overnight is a very common mistake UK owners make. A dog's gut needs time to adjust. Even changing brands of the same type of food can cause loose stools if done too fast. The Kennel Club recommends a gradual transition over 7-10 days.

Stress and Anxiety

Dogs feel stress too. Fireworks night in November, moving house, a new baby, a vet visit, or even a thunderstorm can upset their stomach. This type of diarrhoea usually clears up once the stressful event passes. The blue cross offers excellent advice on managing anxiety in pets.

Parasites

Worms like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms can all cause diarrhoea. So can protozoa like Giardia. Puppies are especially at risk. Regular worming treatments from your vet prevent this. ESCCAP UK & Ireland provides detailed parasite control guidelines.

Infections

Bacterial and viral infections like Parvovirus and Salmonella cause diarrhoea. Parvovirus is serious and needs emergency vet care, especially in puppies. Keeping vaccinations up to date is the best protection. Learn more about vaccination schedules from PDSA.

Food Allergies

Some dogs react badly to certain proteins like chicken, beef, or dairy. Allergies usually develop before age three. If diarrhoea keeps coming back alongside itchy skin or ear problems, food allergies might be the cause. Read more about this on the allergy page to understand how immune reactions work.

Toxins

Chocolate, raisins, grapes, onions, garlic, and many household cleaning products are toxic to dogs. If you suspect your dog has eaten something poisonous, contact your vet immediately. You can also use the ASPCA Poison Control or the UK's Vets Now Poison Line (01202 509000).

Underlying Health Conditions

Kidney disease, liver problems, pancreatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease can all cause long-term diarrhoea. These conditions usually come with other symptoms like weight loss, vomiting, or tiredness. Always get these checked by a vet. The Royal college can help you find a qualified veterinarian.

Signs and Symptoms

Diarrhoea itself is the main symptom, but watch for these extra signs. They tell you how serious the situation might be.

What to Feed Your Dog

Food is one of the best tools to help your dog recover. The idea is simple: give them easy-to-digest foods that are gentle on the stomach. This is called a bland diet.

Do not starve your dog. Many people think skipping meals helps, but it actually makes things worse. Dogs need fuel to fight off whatever is causing the problem. This advice is supported by veterinary nutritionists at the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA)

Nutrient Content of Bland Diet Foods (per 100g)

Detailed Nutritional Information for Bland Diet Foods

Data sources: USDA FoodData Central and UK Government Food Composition Database

Best Foods for a Dog with Diarrhoea

• Plain white rice — Easy on the gut. Cook it soft and mushy.
• Plain boiled chicken breast — No skin, no seasoning, shredded into small pieces.
• Plain white fish — Cooked and flaked. Very gentle on the stomach.
• Pureed pumpkin (not pie filling) — High in fibre, helps firm up stools. A teaspoon for small dogs, a tablespoon for larger breeds.
• Banana — Mild and easy to digest. Contains potassium, which dogs lose during diarrhoea.
• Sweet potato — Cooked and mashed. Good source of fibre and nutrients.

Foods to Avoid

• Fatty or greasy foods
• Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
• Raw meat during an episode
• Rich treats or human food
• Anything with added salt, sugar, or spices

Keep Your Dog Hydrated

Dogs lose a lot of water during diarrhoea. Make sure fresh water is always available. You can also offer low-sodium bone broth, dog-safe soups, or veterinary rehydration solutions. Puppies, small dogs, and senior dogs dehydrate faster than others. Watch for dry gums, sunken eyes, or lethargy — these are signs of dehydration.

Home Treatment

If your dog has mild diarrhoea and is otherwise acting normal, you can manage it at home. Here is what to do step by step.

Step 1: Switch to Bland Food

Move your dog onto plain rice mixed with boiled chicken or white fish. Feed smaller portions more often — for example, 3-4 small meals a day instead of one big one.

Step 2: Keep Them Hydrated

Fresh water must always be available. Add a little water to their food to help with absorption. Offer bone broth if your dog is not drinking enough.

Step 3: Use a Probiotic

Dog probiotics help restore healthy gut bacteria. These are available at Pets at Home, Amazon UK, and online pet shops. Give according to the packet instructions for 2-4 days. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) provides guidelines on probiotic use in pets.

Step 4: Rest and Monitor

Let your dog rest. Watch their stools, appetite, and energy levels. If things improve within 24-48 hours, slowly go back to their normal food over 3-4 days.

Step 5: Clean Up Properly

Use an enzymatic cleaner for any accidents indoors. Never shout at your dog for this — they cannot help it. If your dog has long fur around their bottom, give them a gentle clean to prevent soiling.

When to See a Vet

Not every case of diarrhoea needs a vet visit. But some situations are emergencies. Knowing the difference could save your dog's life.

UK emergency vet options include Vets Now, which is open 24 hours, and the PDSA if you need help with costs.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Prevention

You cannot always stop diarrhoea from happening. But these steps lower the risk and keep your dog's gut healthier all year round.

• Keep vaccinations up to date — Ask your UK vet about the recommended schedule. This protects against Parvovirus and other serious infections. Visit the kennel hub for more information.
• Change food slowly — Always take 7-10 days to switch foods. Mix old and new together gradually.
• Stick to a routine — Feed at the same times each day. Dogs thrive on routine, and so does their digestive system.
• Worm your dog regularly — Follow your vet's advice on how often and which product to use. This is especially important for puppies.
• Stop scavenging on walks — If your dog eats everything they find, use a basket muzzle on walks. It still lets them pant and drink.
• Reduce stress where you can — Use calming techniques during fireworks. Keep your home calm when big changes happen.
• Keep rubbish secure — Use bins with lids your dog cannot open.
• No table scraps — Human food is often too rich or contains ingredients toxic to dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I be worried if my dog has diarrhoea but seems fine?

If your dog is eating, drinking, and acting normally with just loose stools, you can usually manage at home for 24-48 hours. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, contact your vet.

Can I give my dog Imodium or Dioralyte?

Never give human medications without consulting your vet first. Some medications can be dangerous for dogs. Always check with your veterinarian before administering any treatment.

Should I fast my dog when they have diarrhoea?

No. Modern veterinary advice suggests continuing to feed your dog a bland diet rather than fasting, as food helps the gut heal.

Why does my dog keep getting diarrhoea?

Recurring diarrhoea can indicate food allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, parasites, or other chronic conditions. Your vet needs to investigate with tests.

Is diarrhoea dangerous for puppies?

Yes, puppies dehydrate very quickly and are more vulnerable to infections like Parvovirus. Always contact your vet if a puppy has diarrhoea.

What about senior dogs?

Senior dogs are also at higher risk of dehydration and may have underlying health issues. Contact your vet sooner rather than later.

Final Thoughts

Dog diarrhoea is stressful for owners but very common. Most cases are mild and sort themselves out with a bland diet and rest. The key is knowing when to act fast and when it is okay to manage at home.

Remember these three rules: If there is blood, call the vet. If it lasts more than 48 hours, call the vet. If your dog is a puppy or a senior, call the vet sooner.

At Buggaz.co.uk ,we stock everything you need to help your dog through a bout of diarrhoea — from probiotics and bland diet foods to rehydration products. All delivered across the UK with care.

Useful Resources

• Vets Now — 24/7 Emergency Vet UK
• PDSA — Free Vet Care for Those in Need
• The Kennel Club — Dog Health Advice
• Blue Cross — Pet Support & Advice
• RCVS — Find a Vet Near You
• British Veterinary Association — Professional Vet Body
• Royal Veterinary College — Leading Vet Research
• BSAVA — Small Animal Veterinary Association