What to Do About Your Dog’s Soft Poo

If you’ve noticed that your dog’s poo isn’t as firm as it should be, you’re not alone. Many dog owners experience this issue and wonder if it’s a sign of a more significant problem. While soft poo in dogs can be caused by something as simple as a change in diet, it can also indicate underlying health issues that require attention. In this guide, we’ll explore the possible causes of soft poo, what you can do to firm up your dog’s stools, and when it’s time to see the vet.

Understanding the Normal Dog Poo

Before diving into the causes of soft poo, let’s first establish what healthy dog poo looks like. The ideal dog stool should:

1. Be Firm but Pliable – Similar to the consistency of Play-Doh.
2. Have a Uniform Colour – Typically brown, though variations may occur depending on diet.
3. Hold Its Shape – It shouldn’t be too dry or crumbly, nor should it be runny or watery.
4. Be Easy to Pick Up – Without leaving excessive residue behind.

Soft or watery stools can vary in severity, from slightly mushy to full-blown diarrhoea, so it’s essential to assess the situation carefully.

Common Causes of Soft Poo in Dogs

1. Dietary Changes
   • Switching your dog’s food too quickly can upset their digestive system. Dogs require a gradual transition to a new diet to avoid stomach issues.
   • Feeding table scraps or rich, fatty foods can also result in softer stools.
2. Food Intolerance or Allergy
   • Some dogs may be sensitive to specific proteins, grains, or additives in their food.
   • Common culprits include dairy, beef, chicken, and wheat.
3. Overfeeding
   • Giving your dog too much food at once can overwhelm their digestive system, leading to soft poo.
4. Stress or Anxiety
   • Just like humans, dogs can experience gastrointestinal issues when stressed. Changes in routine, moving house, or introducing a new pet can all trigger stress-related diarrhoea.
5. Parasites
   • Intestinal parasites like worms, giardia, or coccidia can lead to diarrhoea and soft stools. These are more common in puppies or dogs exposed to contaminated water or faeces.
6. Bacterial or Viral Infections
   • Infections such as Salmonella or Parvovirus can cause soft stools, among other symptoms. These conditions often require veterinary intervention.
7. Underlying Health Conditions
   • Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis, or liver problems can result in chronic soft stools.
   • Older dogs may also develop softer stools due to age-related changes in digestion.
8. Medications
   • Antibiotics or other medications may disrupt your dog’s gut flora, leading to temporary soft stools.

What You Can Do to Firm Up Your Dog’s Poo

1. Assess Their Diet
   • Stick to a High-Quality Dog Food: Choose a diet that contains natural ingredients, adequate protein, and limited fillers.
   • Transition Slowly: When switching food, do so gradually over 7-10 days by mixing the new food with the old.
   • Avoid Table Scraps: Human food can be too rich for dogs and upset their stomachs.
2. Provide Fibre
   • Fibre can help firm up stools. Try adding a small amount of cooked sweet potato, pumpkin (not pie filling), or plain oats to your dog’s meals.
3. Control Portions
   • Overfeeding can lead to soft stools. Follow the feeding guidelines provided by your dog food manufacturer and adjust based on your dog’s activity level and size.
4. Hydration
   • Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. Proper hydration supports overall digestion and stool consistency.
5. Probiotics
   • Probiotics can help restore healthy gut bacteria, especially if your dog’s soft poo is due to antibiotics or a disrupted microbiome.
6. Limit Treats
   • Excessive treats, especially those high in fat or sugar, can contribute to loose stools. Keep treats to a minimum and opt for natural options.
7. Exercise
   • Regular physical activity promotes healthy digestion. Ensure your dog gets sufficient exercise daily.
8. Keep Their Environment Clean
   • If your dog likes to scavenge, ensure their environment is free from harmful substances, such as spoiled food or faeces from other animals.

When to Visit the Vet

While occasional soft poo is normal, some situations require veterinary attention:

• Chronic Soft Stools: If your dog has soft stools for more than a week despite dietary adjustments.
• Blood or Mucus: Visible blood or mucus in your dog’s stool could indicate a serious issue, such as infection or inflammation.
• Other Symptoms: Lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, or weight loss alongside soft poo should not be ignored.
• Puppies: Young puppies are more vulnerable to dehydration and serious conditions, so soft stools should always be addressed quickly.
• Foreign Objects: If your dog has ingested something unusual, such as a toy or bone, and has soft stools or difficulty passing stools, consult your vet.

Preventing Soft Poo in Dogs

1. Maintain a Consistent Diet
   • Keep your dog on a high-quality diet and avoid frequent changes.
2. Regular Deworming
   • Use vet-recommended worming treatments regularly to prevent parasitic infections.
3. Vaccinations
   • Ensure your dog is up-to-date with vaccinations to protect against viral infections.
4. Monitor Stress
   • Create a stable routine for your dog and minimise stressors.
5. Routine Check-Ups
   • Regular veterinary check-ups can catch potential issues early before they lead to chronic digestive problems.

Conclusion

Soft poo in dogs can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from simple dietary issues to more serious health conditions. While occasional soft stools aren’t necessarily a cause for concern, chronic or severe cases should be evaluated by a vet. By taking steps to improve your dog’s diet, monitor their environment, and address any potential stressors, you can help ensure their digestive health remains in tip-top shape. Remember, as a dog owner, staying attentive to your pet’s needs and changes in behaviour is key to keeping them happy and healthy.