Dog treats are a wonderful way to reward your furry friend, but they can also cause unexpected digestive issues, including diarrhea. Understanding the link between treats and digestive health is essential to keeping your pet comfortable.
In this article, we’ll explore how dog treats can cause diarrhea, review some helpful products from Under the Weather, and offer guidance on maintaining your dog’s digestive health.
Does your furry friend suddenly have loose stools after enjoying their favorite chew? You’re not alone in this messy situation! As a dog owner myself, I’ve definitely experienced the unpleasant surprise of cleaning up diarrhea after giving my pup a new chew treat.
The short answer is: Yes, dog chews can absolutely cause diarrhea – and there are several reasons why this happens. In this article, I’ll break down everything you need to know about this common problem, how to prevent it, and what to do if your pup already has the runs.
Why Dog Chews Can Lead to Digestive Upset
Dog chews, like other treats, can disrupt your dog’s digestive system for several reasons. Here are the main culprits behind those messy stools:
1. Overindulgence: The Too-Much-of-a-Good-Thing Problem
Just like us humans can get stomach upset from eating too much junk food, dogs can experience diarrhea when they consume too many chews. Remember that dog chews aren’t designed to be nutritionally complete – they’re meant as occasional rewards.
Most veterinarians and pet nutritionists recommend following the 10% rule treats (including chews) should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake The rest should come from their regular, balanced diet
When this balance gets thrown off, your dog’s digestive system rebels – often in the form of loose, watery stools.
2. Low-Quality Ingredients and Fillers
Not all dog chews are created equal! Many cheaper options contain fillers like:
- Corn
- Soy
- Wheat
- Various artificial additives
Dogs aren’t naturally equipped to process these ingredients efficiently. Their digestive systems often struggle with these fillers, which can lead to diarrhea when consumed in large amounts.
As one veterinarian quoted in the Vet Explains Pets article notes: “Pet owners should be mindful of the ingredients in the treats they give their dogs, as certain additives and fillers can be irritating to their digestive systems.”
3. Too Much Fat Content
Many dog chews (especially rawhides and certain natural chews) contain significant amounts of fat While fat makes these chews irresistibly tasty to your pup, it can also wreak havoc on their digestive tract
Fat should only make up between 10-15% of your dog’s total daily diet. When chews with high fat content are added to an already adequate diet, it can overwhelm their system, resulting in oily, loose stools or full-blown diarrhea.
4. Expired or Spoiled Chews
This one might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning! Just like other dog treats, chews have a best-by date. Using chews past their expiration date can lead to what’s sometimes called “garbage gut” or garbage toxicosis.
This is particularly important with certain types of chews like those containing raw meat components, which can harbor bacteria if not fresh.
5. Allergic Reactions to New Proteins
Dogs can develop allergies to certain proteins, with beef, chicken, and lamb being common culprits. If you’ve introduced a new chew with a protein your dog hasn’t experienced before, they might have an allergic reaction that manifests as diarrhea.
Dogs thrive on routine, and their digestive systems get accustomed to processing the same foods. When you suddenly introduce a new type of chew with different ingredients, it can shock their system.
As the Daily Dog Stuff article explains, “a sudden influx of new treats is a whole different story. It throws off their system and makes it difficult to process the new ingredients.”
What To Do If Your Dog Has Diarrhea From Chews
If your furry friend is experiencing diarrhea and you suspect their chews are the cause, here’s what you can do:
1. Keep Your Dog Hydrated & Consider a Brief Fast
Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water available. For healthy adult dogs, veterinarians sometimes recommend a brief fasting period of 6-12 hours (but no longer than that).
Important: Never fast puppies, elderly dogs, or dogs with existing health conditions without consulting your vet first!
2. Stick to Bland Foods During Recovery
Once the fasting period is over, start reintroducing food gradually with bland options like:
- Plain cooked white rice
- Boiled chicken (no seasonings)
- Canned pumpkin (pure pumpkin, not pie filling)
Offer these in small amounts more frequently than their regular meal schedule to be gentler on their recovering digestive system.
3. Consult Your Veterinarian if Symptoms Persist
If the diarrhea continues for more than 24-48 hours, or if you notice other concerning symptoms (vomiting, lethargy, blood in stool), it’s time to call the vet. As the Vet Explains Pets article states, “chronic or severe diarrhea can indicate a more serious underlying health issue and should be addressed by a veterinarian.”
Tips for Avoiding Diarrhea from Dog Chews
Prevention is always better than dealing with the messy aftermath! Here are some practical tips to prevent chew-related diarrhea:
1. Start With Small Amounts
When introducing a new chew, start with a fraction of the recommended amount to see how your dog’s stomach handles it. This is especially important with rich or high-protein chews.
The PierrePark article suggests “half the recommended daily amount at first to see how their stomach reacts, making sure to give them plenty of time afterward to let the treats digest.”
2. Check Ingredient Lists Carefully
Take time to review what’s in your dog’s chews. Look for options with:
- Simple, recognizable ingredients
- No artificial preservatives or colors
- Limited fillers like corn, wheat, and soy
Single-ingredient chews, like those made from sweet potato or dehydrated meat, are often gentler on sensitive stomachs.
3. Consider Your Dog’s Specific Needs
Not all dogs process chews the same way. Factors to consider include:
- Size and breed
- Age
- Activity level
- Existing health conditions
Smaller dogs, for example, may experience digestive upset more quickly from rich chews than larger breeds.
4. Make Sure Chews Are Fresh
Always check the expiration date before giving your dog a chew. Store them properly according to package instructions to prevent spoilage or staleness.
5. Maintain Proper Hydration
Ensure your dog drinks plenty of water, especially when enjoying harder chews like bully sticks or dental chews. Adequate hydration helps their digestive system process these treats more effectively.
The Best Types of Chews for Sensitive Stomachs
If your dog tends to get diarrhea easily, these chew options might be gentler on their system:
- Single-ingredient dehydrated veggie chews – Sweet potato or pumpkin chews are often well-tolerated
- Dental chews specifically formulated for sensitive stomachs
- Limited-ingredient natural chews without added preservatives or colors
- Freeze-dried meat chews without added ingredients
When to Worry About Diarrhea
While occasional loose stools after a new chew isn’t usually cause for major concern, be on the lookout for these warning signs that indicate you should call your vet:
- Diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours
- Blood or mucus in the stool
- Vomiting alongside diarrhea
- Lethargy or decreased appetite
- Signs of pain or discomfort
- Fever
My Experience with Chew-Related Diarrhea
I’ve been there, trust me! My dog Luna once had terrible diarrhea after I gave her a new type of bully stick. I was cleaning up messes for two days before I realized the connection. Now I’m much more careful about introducing new chews gradually and checking ingredients lists.
What I’ve learned is that even “natural” chews can cause problems if they’re introduced too quickly or contain ingredients your dog isn’t used to processing.
Dog chews can absolutely cause diarrhea when given in excess, when they contain problematic ingredients, or when introduced too suddenly to your dog’s diet. The good news is that with some mindful choices and moderation, your pup can still enjoy their favorite chews without digestive upset.
Remember the 10% rule, introduce new chews gradually, and pay attention to how your individual dog responds to different types of chews. Your dog’s digestive system (and your carpets!) will thank you for taking these precautions.
Have you experienced chew-related diarrhea with your dog? What solutions worked for you? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Disclaimer: While I’ve researched this topic thoroughly and drawn from veterinary sources, I’m not a veterinarian. This article is meant for informational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your vet about your dog’s specific health needs, especially when dealing with ongoing digestive issues.
Ready Cal High-Calorie Supplement
When your dog is dealing with reduced appetite due to diarrhea, the Ready Cal High-Calorie Supplement can provide essential calories in an easy-to-administer gel. This supplement contains fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to ensure your dog maintains their weight and energy levels even when they aren’t eating as much as usual. It’s a highly beneficial product for pets recovering from digestive issues.
Can Dog Treats Cause Diarrhea? Get Some Help
The Chicken & Rice Bland Diet from Under the Weather is designed to soothe your dog’s digestive system, particularly when they are experiencing diarrhea. This freeze-dried blend of easily digestible chicken and rice helps calm the stomach and promotes hydration, which is critical when diarrhea leads to fluid loss. It’s made from cage-free chicken and contains no artificial flavors or preservatives, making it a simple and safe option for dogs with digestive upset.
Diarrhea in Dogs: How To Quickly Treat At Home
FAQ
Do dog treats cause diarrhea?
One of the messiest and most uncomfortable is diarrhea. The added flavors and unique ingredients used in many commercial dog treats can wreak havoc on your dog’s digestive tract. In moderation, treats will pass through their system with no problem. However, when your dog consumes large quantities, they’ll have to pay the price.
Why does my dog have diarrhea?
There are a number of reasons why an abundance of treats may cause your dog to experience diarrhea. Typically, diarrhea can be remedied quickly by simply by removing the irritant. Unfortunately, most owners don’t know what causes the stomach condition. Here are some common treat-related factors that can disrupt your pup’s digestive system.
What happens if a dog eats too many treats?
Like humans, dogs can experience unwanted side-effects after eating too many treats. One of the messiest and most uncomfortable is diarrhea. The added flavors and unique ingredients used in many commercial dog treats can wreak havoc on your dog’s digestive tract. In moderation, treats will pass through their system with no problem.
Can dog food cause diarrhea?
Protein level is one possible factor that could cause diarrhea in a dog’s food. However, other ingredients such as gluten and dairy could also be the culprits. If you suspect an allergy, contact your vet to get your dog tested.
Can dogs eat cheese to help with diarrhea?
Yes, dogs can eat cheese to help with diarrhea. Even dogs with lactose intolerance can eat small portions of cottage cheese. The fermentation process in the making of cottage cheese gets rid of almost all the lactose.
Can a dog eat fillers if he has diarrhea?
Typically, diarrhea can be remedied quickly by simply by removing the irritant. Unfortunately, most owners don’t know what causes the stomach condition. Here are some common treat-related factors that can disrupt your pup’s digestive system. As the name implies, fillers are designed to help your dog feel full and satisfied after eating a treat.
What dog treats cause diarrhea?
Can chew sticks cause diarrhea in dogs?
What are the worst dental chews for dogs?
What is the most common cause of diarrhea in dogs?
The most common causes of diarrhea in dogs include dietary indiscretion (eating something they shouldn’t have), sudden diet changes, stress, intestinal parasites like roundworms or Giardia, and bacterial or viral infections. While mild cases can resolve with a temporary bland diet, it’s crucial to contact a veterinarian if your dog shows signs of a more serious illness, such as lethargy, vomiting, or blood in their stool.