One of the most telling indicators of a dog’s health is something that might not be the most pleasant to discuss: their poop. Let’s dive into the poop scoop and decipher what dog poop can tell us about our pets’ health.
The Perfect Poop is ideal, but what does that look like? Healthy dog poop should be firm, segmented and slightly moist, like a compact log. This type of stool indicates that your dog’s digestive system is functioning well and receiving a balanced diet.
What Different Dog Poop Colors Mean
White, Chalky Poop often indicates a diet that’s too high in calcium or an excess of bone in their food. This is common in dogs that are on a raw food diet with a lot of bones. While calcium is essential, too much can lead to constipation and other digestive issues. It’s crucial to balance your dog’s diet and ensure they’re getting the proper nutrients in the correct proportions.
Soft, Mushy Poop can be a sign of a few different issues. Often, it’s a sign of dietary indiscretion – perhaps your dog got into the trash or ate something that didn’t agree with them. It can also indicate a food intolerance or a sudden change in diet. Consistently soft stools may be a sign of a gastrointestinal issue. If you notice this over several days, it’s best to consult your vet.
Green Poop can be alarming, but it’s not always a cause for panic. If your dog’s poop is green, it could mean that they’ve been eating a lot of grass, which some dogs do to help themselves vomit or because they like the taste. However, green poop can also indicate a gallbladder issue or that your dog’s food is moving too quickly through their intestines, preventing bile from breaking down completely.
Yellow or Orange Poop can indicate a biliary or liver issue, especially if the poop is greasy. It could also be a sign that your dog is having difficulty digesting fats or has a blockage in their digestive system. This colour change signals that it’s time for a vet visit to check for underlying health problems.
Black, Tarry Poop is a red flag that should not be ignored. This type of stool indicates the presence of digested blood. It can be a sign of internal bleeding, often in the stomach or upper small intestine. This is a serious condition and warrants an immediate trip to the veterinarian.
Bloody Poop is understandably alarming. Bright red blood typically indicates bleeding in the lower digestive tract, such as the colon or rectum. This can be caused by various issues, including infections, allergies, or even more severe conditions like cancer. Again, seeing blood in your dog’s stool is a clear sign to seek veterinary attention promptly.
So, the next time you’re out on a walk with your pup, take a moment to consider what their poop might be telling you. It’s a simple but powerful tool for maintaining their health and longevity.
Source: Outward Hound
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