How long is it OK for my puppy to have diarrhea?

When the furry puppy at home suddenly starts to excrete soft and watery feces frequently, the owner's heart often tightens. The pair of lively eyes that were once bright and lively become dim, and the lively little body curls up in the corner. The discomfort caused by diarrhea makes this little life that has just entered the world suffer unspeakable pain. For puppy owners, in addition to heartache, they are more eager to know: How long is it normal for a puppy to have diarrhea? The answer to this question is hidden in the complex causes and the fragile physiological mechanism of puppies. ​

The digestive system of puppies is like a sophisticated instrument that is still being debugged. Their gastrointestinal mucosa is tender, the intestinal flora has not yet fully established a balance, and the secretion of digestive enzymes is not stable enough. This makes them extremely sensitive to changes in food and environmental stimulation. Ordinary dietary adjustments, such as suddenly changing the brand of dog food and feeding too many snacks, may break the delicate balance of the stomach and intestines and cause diarrhea. This kind of diarrhea caused by improper diet will usually be relieved within 1-2 days if the diet is adjusted in time. The owner watched the little guy gradually regain his vitality, and his heart was relieved. ​

However, the reasons behind diarrhea are far more than just diet. The invasion of viruses and bacteria often causes the fragile gastrointestinal defenses of puppies to collapse instantly. The initial symptoms of virulent infectious diseases such as canine distemper and parvovirus are often diarrhea. These viruses are like cunning enemies, not only attacking the intestines, but also destroying the immune system of puppies. Puppies infected with such viruses may have diarrhea for days or even weeks, accompanied by vomiting, fever, and mental depression. When the owner sees the little guy lying weakly in the nest, and even his favorite toys are not interested, his heart is full of anxiety and helplessness, and he wishes he could bear the pain for them. ​

Parasites are also "invisible killers" that plague puppies. Parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and coccidia live in the intestines, robbing nutrients and damaging the intestinal wall, causing diarrhea in puppies. The duration of this type of diarrhea varies depending on the number of worms and the degree of infection. If deworming is not done in time, diarrhea may be intermittent, sometimes good and sometimes bad. Every time the owner cleans the puppies' excrement, he hopes to find a solution as soon as possible to free the little guy from the torture of parasites. ​

In addition to disease factors, changes in the environment can also make the puppies' stomachs "emotional". When puppies leave their familiar mother dogs and siblings and enter a new family, unfamiliar smells, sounds, and temperatures will put pressure on them. This stress response may cause diarrhea, which generally improves gradually within 1-3 days after the puppies adapt to the new environment. But if environmental stimulation persists, diarrhea will also linger.

From a professional point of view, it is normal for healthy puppies to occasionally have mild diarrhea and return to normal within 1-2 days after adjusting their diet and taking proper rest. But if diarrhea lasts for more than 2 days, or is accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting, blood in the stool, fever, and depression, no matter how long it lasts, it must be taken to the pet hospital immediately. Because this may mean that the puppy is under the threat of serious illness, and delayed treatment may be life-threatening.

In the face of puppy diarrhea, the owner's careful care is crucial. During diarrhea, proper fasting can give the stomach and intestines a rest, but ensure adequate drinking water to prevent dehydration. When the puppy gradually regains its appetite, it should choose easily digestible food and follow the principle of eating small and frequent meals to help the stomach and intestines slowly restore their functions. Every feeding and every caress is the owner's affectionate protection of the puppy.

There is no absolute standard answer to how long it is normal for a puppy to have diarrhea. It requires the owner's keen observation and scientific judgment. In the days with the puppy, diarrhea may be just a small bump on the road of growth, but the owner's love and responsibility can turn into sunshine to dispel the haze. When you see the little guy jumping around again, wagging his tail and jumping into your arms, all the worries and efforts become worthwhile, because this little life has long become an indispensable warm existence in our lives.