Diarrhea in dogs: most common causes

Diarrhea in dogs is one of the most common reasons for veterinary visits among pet owners. Sometimes it appears suddenly and resolves within a few hours; other times, it recurs or lingers, leaving us with questions: Did they eat something they shouldn't have? Is it stress? Is their food upsetting their stomach? Do they need a change of routine?

At Maikai Pets, we believe in responsible pet care: observing, understanding the context, and supporting well-being with natural habits and options, without resorting to improvised solutions. In this article, we'll review why a dog might have diarrhea , how to help naturally, and when to consult a veterinarian for a professional evaluation.

Why does a dog have diarrhea?

Diarrhea is essentially a sign that the digestive system is trying to manage something that doesn't agree with it or that it's finding difficult to process. In many cases, it's a defense mechanism of the body to expel irritants. These are some of the most common causes of diarrhea in dogs :

• Sudden changes in diet: switching from one food to another overnight, introducing new snacks, or changing the type of diet without a transition can disrupt the intestinal flora.
• Ingestion of "something inappropriate": leftover food, garbage, cooked bones, plants, sand, stagnant water, or overly fatty treats can trigger loose stools or diarrhea.
• Intolerances or sensitivities: some dogs react to specific ingredients (for example, certain proteins or fats) or to foods very high in additives.
• Stress and changes in routine: moving, traveling, visits, noise, loneliness, changes in schedule or the arrival of a new pet can be reflected in the gut.
• Too many treats or chews: even good quality snacks, if offered in excess, can disrupt digestion.
• Intense exercise right after eating: in some dogs, immediate activity can cause digestive discomfort.
• Hydration and habits: drinking too quickly, changes in water, or lack of constant access can influence intestinal transit.

Occasional vs. chronic diarrhea

Not all diarrhea means the same thing. Differentiating between a single episode and a recurring pattern helps you decide how to act calmly and judiciously.

• Occasional diarrhea: This occurs in isolation, usually doesn't last long, and if the dog is lively and eating normally, it's often related to a recent change (a new treat, a walk with snacking, a stressful day). In these cases, observation and digestive support are usually sufficient.
• Recurrent or chronic diarrhea: This occurs frequently (for example, every week), lasts for several days, or is accompanied by loss of fitness, lethargy, or significant changes in appetite. In these cases, it's advisable to review your diet and routine, and consult a doctor to rule out underlying causes and adjust your eating plan.

A helpful detail: observe the frequency , appearance (very runny, with mucus, with undigested food), smell , and whether there is urgency (the baby rushes to defecate). Recording this information for 24–48 hours can provide much clarity.

How to stop diarrhea naturally

When we talk about "stopping" diarrhea, we're really aiming to support the gut so it can regain its balance: hydration, digestive rest, and a bland, appropriate diet. If your dog is generally in good health, these measures are usually a good starting point.

Probiotics for diarrhea

Probiotics for diarrhea can be a helpful aid because they help maintain the balance of the gut microbiota, especially after dietary changes, periods of stress, or occasional digestive issues. In a natural and responsible approach, probiotics are valued for their ability to support the digestive system when it is sensitive.

To choose a quality probiotic, consider the following:

• Transparency: It should indicate strains and quantity of microorganisms (e.g., CFU) and have clear instructions for use.
• Format and tolerance: powder, capsules or functional snacks; the important thing is that it is easy to administer and agrees with you.
• Consistency: They usually work best with regular use for several days, according to the product instructions.

At Maikai Pets, we believe in solutions that respect the body's natural rhythms: natural ingredients, honest formulations, and sustainable routines. If your dog has a sensitive digestive system, probiotic support can be part of a digestive wellness plan, along with a stable diet and careful transitions when changes occur.

At Maikai Pets we have formulated a natural probiotic for dogs and cats designed to gently and effectively support intestinal flora, ideal in cases of sensitive digestion or occasional episodes of diarrhea:

Maikai Pets Immune Digestive Probiotic – natural support for your dog's digestion

(helps to balance the intestinal microbiota and promotes more stable digestion)

In addition to probiotics, these guidelines often help in mild cases:

• Constant hydration: Make sure fresh water is available. If bowel movements are very loose, ensure the child drinks normally.
• Smaller, more frequent meals: For 24–48 hours, dividing your ration into several smaller meals can be gentler on your gut.
• Temporary bland diet: A simple, easily digestible diet can help give your digestive system a break. Keep it simple and avoid mixing too many new ingredients at once.
• Avoid rewards and extras: during the episode, reduce snacks, chews and leftover food to avoid adding variables.
• A calm routine: short walks, without overexcitement, and a calm environment can make a difference if the stress factor is present.
• Gradual transition back to your usual diet: When you feel better, gradually reintroduce your normal eating habits to avoid relapses.

A practical tip: if you suspect the cause was something extra (a new snack, a fattier treat, a change of brand), temporarily return to what you know agrees with your dog and keep a record of what they've eaten in the last 24 hours. This information is invaluable for preventing future bouts of diarrhea in dogs.

When to go to the vet

Although many cases are mild, there are situations where it's best not to wait. The key lies in the dog's overall condition and the presence of any warning signs. If you have any doubts, seeking professional guidance is a responsible way to care for your pet.

Warning signs

Consult a veterinarian if you observe any of these signs:

• Very heavy or watery diarrhea that does not improve in 24–48 hours.
• Presence of blood or very dark stools (abnormal appearance).
• Repeated vomiting or inability to retain water.
• Marked decline , weakness, or lack of response to usual stimuli.
• Obvious abdominal pain , hunched posture, or groaning when the area is touched.
• Persistent fever or chills.
• Signs of dehydration (dry gums, lethargy, less elastic skin).
• Puppies, senior dogs or dogs with pre-existing conditions: in these cases it is advisable to act sooner, even with milder symptoms.
• Suspect ingestion of toxins or foreign bodies: if you have eaten something dangerous or inedible, don't wait.

It's also advisable to consult a veterinarian if diarrhea in dogs recurs frequently, if there is weight loss, if their appetite changes steadily, or if you notice that their digestion "isn't what it used to be." In these cases, reviewing their diet, habits, food composition, and tolerances may be part of the process, always under professional guidance.

To make the most of your visit, bring this information:

• When did it start and how many bowel movements does he have per day?
• Appearance of the stool (liquid, with mucus, with remains).
• If there have been changes in food, snacks, routines, or stress.
• If there is vomiting, apathy, or changes in appetite.
• Access to garbage, parks, stagnant water or "snacking" during walks.

Diarrhea can be a one-off warning or a sign that something needs adjusting. Looking at the whole picture—diet, lifestyle, digestive sensitivity, and ingredient quality—is usually the wisest approach.

At Maikai Pets, we champion true well-being: stable routines, natural ingredients, and responsible choices. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, be patient, observe their progress, and choose a care plan that builds digestive health day by day. Sometimes, the most premium approach is the simplest: consistency, quality, and paying attention to what your dog is telling you.