Wondering how healthy your dog is? The proof is in the poop. The below infographic shows how the shape, size, content, color, and consistency of a dog’s poop can give clues into any internal problems you and your vet may have missed or may need to investigate.
For instance, watery stools may indicate an intestinal problem, while small pellet-like poops can mean your dog is dehydrated. More serious issues that warrant a veterinary visit include mucus (possible inflamed colon), blood, white bits (may be tapeworm), or black, coffee-like stool (possible internal bleeding.)
Also, look at the color. Shades that may be problematic include orange/yellow (possibly caused by biliary or liver problem), green (possibly caused by a gall bladder issue or eating grass), or gray or greasy (possibly caused by a pancreas or biliary problem).
So what’s a perfect poop? It should be brown, solid but a bit squishy, in one log-like piece, and sized proportionate to the amount of food your dog ate.
That’s why although everyone poops, including your dog, taking a closer look at what comes out can give you insight into your dog’s health.
And remember, if you notice any changes in your dog’s elimination schedule and you haven’t changed his food recently, it may be worth contacting your veterinarian to rule out any potential problems.
Learn what to do if your dog is eating his poop (a habit that’s called coprophagia.)
Have a non-urgent question for a veterinarian? AKC Vetline is a live, 24/7 service staffed by licensed veterinary staff and pet professionals. Get unlimited access to answers about your pet’s health and wellness whenever and wherever you need it from a source you know you can trust.
This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.