Seeing blood in your dog's stool is understandably alarming. It's a sign that something is wrong in their digestive system, and it's crucial to take action. This article will explain potential causes of bloody stool in dogs, the different types you might see, and what to do next.
Causes of Bloody Stool in Dogs
There are several reasons why your dog might have blood in their stool. Some are more serious than others, so consulting your veterinarian is always recommended. Here are some common causes:
Dietary indiscretion: If your dog ate something they shouldn't have, like human food, spoiled food, or a foreign object, it can irritate their digestive tract and cause bloody stool.
Parasites: Internal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and coccidia can irritate the intestines and cause bleeding.
Infections: Bacterial or viral infections in the digestive tract can also lead to bloody stool.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): This chronic inflammatory condition affects the intestines and can cause bloody diarrhea.
Anal gland problems: If your dog's anal glands become impacted or infected, it can cause blood streaks in their stool.
Cancer: In some cases, bloody stool can be a sign of cancer in the digestive tract.
Preventing Bloody Stool:
While not all causes are preventable, here are some things you can do to help keep your dog's digestive system healthy:
Feed them a high-quality diet appropriate for their age and activity level.
Avoid giving them table scraps or human food.
Keep them on a regular deworming schedule recommended by your veterinarian.
Every pet parent should pick up after their pet to prevent dogs from ingesting parasites from other animals' waste.
Different Types of Blood in Dog Stool
The appearance of the blood in your dog's stool can offer clues about the source of the problem. Here's a breakdown of two main types:
Bright Red Blood: This type of blood usually originates in the lower digestive tract (colon, rectum, or anus). It often appears with diarrhea and might indicate irritation or inflammation.
Dark, Tarry Blood: This type of blood originates in the upper digestive tract (stomach or small intestine) and has had time to be broken down by the digestive system. It appears dark, almost black, and may be mixed with stool or appear separately.
When to See a Vet for Dog Pooping Blood
Seek immediate veterinary attention if your dog is experiencing bloody stool along with any of these symptoms:
Vomiting
Lethargy
Severe abdominal pain
What Should I Do If My Dog Poops Bloody?
Calmly observe: Note the color, consistency, and frequency of your dog's bloody stool.
Collect a sample: If possible, collect a small stool sample in a bag or container to bring to the vet.
Contact your veterinarian: Call your veterinarian as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. Be prepared to describe your dog's symptoms and the appearance of their stool.
Is Bloody Diarrhea in Dogs an Emergency?
Bloody diarrhea, especially with other concerning symptoms, can be a sign of a serious condition and requires immediate veterinary attention. Don't wait to see if your dog improves on their own.
Expert Insights From Spot
Blood in your dog's stool can be alarming, but it's important to stay calm and seek veterinary attention. We had our data analyst research the average cost of treatment for some of these conditions, and the average age of the affected pet. According to Spot’s internal data:
Benign growths: Benign growths have an average cost of $643.83 in dogs around 6 years old on average(1,065 claims).
Malignant growths: Treatment for malignant growths has an average cost of $1,269.55, the average pet was about 8 years old while being treated for this condition(1,524 claims).
Internal Parasites: These can be a cause of bloody stool, particularly in younger dogs. Spot has received 528 claims for parasitic infections with an average treatment cost of $318.60, typically affecting dogs around 3 years old.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): IBD is another possibility, seen in over 1,550 claims with an average treatment cost of $445.46, typically affecting dogs around 6 years old.
Remember: Early detection and treatment are crucial for any health issue. If you notice blood in your dog's stool, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to determine the cause and get the best course of treatment.
Key Takeaways
Bloody stool in dogs can be caused by various factors, ranging from dietary indiscretion to more serious health issues. If you notice blood in your dog's stool, consult your veterinarian promptly for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early intervention is crucial for a full recovery.
Blood in Dog Poop: What To Do If You Find It | AKC.org
Blood in Dog Poop: Everything You Need To Know | vets-now.com
Common Dog Diseases | ASPCA.org
