I’m a Pet Nutritionist- Here’s What Your Dog’s Poop Says About Their Health
For most dog owners, scooping poop is simply part of the daily routine.
And while many owners may not give a second thought to this rather unenjoyable task, experts say there is a lot you can find out about your dog's health just by taking a quick look at their stool.
Veterinary specialists at Pure Pet Food are encouraging owners to pay attention to any changes or abnormalities in their dog's stool, as discarding it could provide vital clues about their digestive health.
"While you don't need to dig around in your dog's poop, knowing what's normal for your dog makes it easier to spot when something's off.
"A change in their stool may be the first sign that their food isn't agreeing with them, or even that they are experiencing a health issue.
"Since many dogs happily eat whatever is put in front of them, these symptoms can be the only clue that their diet is not agreeing with them and that a change is needed."
With search interest in 'best dog food for sensitive stomach' increasing by 26% over the past three months, Pure Pet Food's Emma Passman has shared four key signs when cleaning up after your dog that it might be time to change their food.
-
Shape and consistency
A healthy stool should be firm, sausage-shaped, and easy to pick up in one piece. If it's too soft, crumbly, or constantly changing from one day to the next, it could be a sign your pooch's gut isn't happy.
This type of inconsistency is often associated with sensitive stomachs and may be triggered by rich, fatty, or overly processed foods. Switching to a simpler, natural diet will help bring things back into balance.
-
Colour
A dog's stool should typically be a deep brown. But if it regularly appears pale brown, yellow, orange, or black, it could indicate an underlying issue.
Pale stools may suggest fat digestion problems, while black ones could point to internal bleeding. Yellow or greasy-looking waste might mean your dog's stomach isn't absorbing nutrients properly.
If you spot any of these changes, it's worth reviewing their diet and consulting a vet.
-
Strong smells
All dog poo has a scent, but a dramatic change in odour, especially if it's sharp or sour, can mean something in your dog's diet isn't sitting well with them.
Strong odours may be caused by poor-quality ingredients or excess fat in their meals. Choosing a food made with fresh, natural ingredients will reduce digestive strain and lead to less offensive clean-ups.
-
Slime or mucus
Occasionally, you may notice mucus or a shiny coating on your dog's stool. This can be a sign of digestive tract inflammation, often caused by food intolerances or infections.
While not always a serious concern, repeated occurrences should be noted. A hypoallergenic diet may help calm the irritation and improve your dog's gut health.
To explore more about dogs' gut health, visit the Pure Pet Food blog or head to their site to discover tailored plans for sensitive stomachs.
