Dog Pooping Blood: Common Causes and What To Do
Laura Evans |
November 7, 2024
54,182
Noticing blood in your dog’s stool can be alarming and it’s easy to start thinking the worst. Sometimes, blood in your dog’s stool is nothing to be worried about, and it’s the result of a simple problem that will get better on its own in just a few days. However, in other instances, there may be a much more severe underlying problem that needs to be addressed, especially if your dog also has diarrhea, or is vomiting.
This article will help you understand why your pet has this problem, when to be concerned, and what you can do about it.
It’s normal for dog stool to have a slight red or brownish tint to it. But If you’re seeing bright red, then there’s no doubt about it, your dog has a bloody stool, and needs help.
Why Is My Dog Pooping Blood?
- Gastrointestinal
The first cause of blood in a dog’s stool is gastrointestinal blood loss. Sometimes, for reasons veterinarians cannot explain, a small amount of bleeding occurs in the upper part of the small intestine. It may be due to a minor injury or perhaps an ulcer. The bleeding causes red blood cells to pass into the feces, resulting in the bloody stool.
- Gastrointestinal Ulcer Disease
The second most common cause of blood in a dog’s feces is ulcer disease. In this condition, irritation to the lining of the stomach or small intestine causes damage, resulting in bleeding. The most common form of gastrointestinal ulcer disease is called gastric or duodenal ulcers. Dogs with this condition typically vomit, have an appetite loss, and may have abdominal pain.
- Obstruction of the Bowel
The most serious cause for blood in the stool of a dog is an obstruction of the intestine. Since feces are made up largely of digested blood, it follows that if there is no place for the digested blood to go, it will come out in a dog’s stool. Obstruction of the bowel is a surgical emergency as the dog’s life is at risk.
Decoding Blood Types in Dog Stool and Their Implications
Bloody stools can have different appearances. The color aids in vividly determining the part of the dog’s tract where the blood is popping from. There are two types of appearances: melena and hematochezia.
- Melena:
Black, tarry color, digested blood is difficult for bile to change. In other words, the dog’s feces is black and looks like mud or tar. The blood comes from the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. This is generally due to ulcer disease in these two areas, but it could also be due to cancer or another serious disease.
- Hematochezia:
Red, fresh blood is free from bile and comes from the lower part of the intestine. This is generally due to a gastrointestinal ulcer or obstruction, such as an intestinal stricture or foreign body.
What does your dog’s stool look like?
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What Other Signs is Your Dog Showing?
When did the symptoms start?
What to Do When Your Dog is Pooping Blood?
⚠️ The first thing you should do if you find blood in your dog’s stool, whether the stool is formed or loose (like diarrhea), is to call your veterinarian, or out of hours, a 24/7 Pet Helpline. In some cases, a conversation over the phone or by chat can help determine whether your dog needs to be examined immediately. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
If you notice blood in your dog’s stool, it’s essential to take immediate action to ensure their health and well-being. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:
1. Observe and Document
- Take Note of Symptoms: Record any additional symptoms your dog may be experiencing, such as vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in behavior.
- Describe the Stool: Note the color, consistency, and amount of blood in the stool. Determine if the blood appears as melena (black, tarry stool) or hematochezia (bright red blood).
2. Check for Immediate Hazards
- Remove Potential Toxins: Ensure your dog hasn’t ingested any toxic substances, such as chemicals, plants, or spoiled food.
- Inspect Environment: Check for any foreign objects your dog might have swallowed, which could cause internal bleeding or obstruction.
3. Maintain Hydration
- Offer Water: Ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water. Blood loss can lead to dehydration, so keeping your dog hydrated is crucial.
- Electrolyte Solutions: Consider offering an electrolyte solution suitable for dogs to help maintain their hydration levels.
4. Withhold Food Temporarily
- Fasting: Temporarily withhold food for 12-24 hours to give your dog’s digestive system a chance to rest. This can help if the bleeding is due to gastrointestinal irritation or inflammation.
- Introduce a Bland Diet: After the fasting period, gradually reintroduce a bland diet, such as boiled chicken and rice, to see if the symptoms improve.
5. Monitor Behavior and Symptoms
- Watch for Changes: Keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior and any changes in their condition. Note if the blood in the stool persists or worsens.
- Track Frequency: Monitor how often your dog is passing blood in their stool and any changes in frequency.
6. Seek Veterinary Care
- Contact Your Veterinarian: If you notice blood in your dog’s stool, contact your veterinarian immediately. Provide them with detailed information about your observations.
- Emergency Care: If your dog is showing signs of severe distress, such as continuous vomiting, extreme lethargy, or a bloated abdomen, seek emergency veterinary care right away.
7. Follow Veterinary Advice
- Diagnostic Tests: Your veterinarian may recommend diagnostic tests, such as blood work, stool analysis, X-rays, or ultrasounds, to determine the underlying cause of the bleeding.
- Medication and Treatment: Follow any prescribed treatment plans, including medications, dietary changes, or surgical interventions if necessary.
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What if Your Dog Also Has Diarrhea or Is Vomiting?
If your dog is also vomiting or has diarrhea, it may be hemorrhagic gastroenteritis. This serious condition is most common in small and toy breed dogs (Young Miniature Poodles, Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, Dachshunds, and Maltese seem to be more commonly affected) and requires prompt veterinary care.
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis is a life-threatening disease. Dogs with this condition will appear severely ill and, if left untreated, may die. If your dog has this condition, it will need to be hospitalized and go under intensive treatment. If you are unsure, it’s strongly recommended to call your vet or, out of hours, a 24/7 telehealth helpline, they will guide you step by step.
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Can My Dog Die From Pooping Blood?
Well, it depends on the situation. Bloody stool in your dog may just be caused by some irritation or rectal injury. However, it can be a sign of serious conditions like hemorrhagic gastroenteritis or colitis. It’s best to take your dog to the vet as soon as you notice blood in his stool, or at least talk to your vet or an online 24/7 vet service to put your mind at ease. It may be nothing. However, it can also be a symptom of serious illness. You should ensure you can take all the precautions before it’s too late.
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