Finding blood in your dog’s poo can be alarming. Having blood in the poo is a very non-specific symptom in dogs; there are many possible causes. Many conditions that cause blood in the poo are easily treatable and some may even clear without medication. However, there are a few situations where it can turn into a life-threatening emergency. Speak to a vet as soon as possible if you notice blood in your dog’s poo. 

Fresh red blood in the poo is known as haematochezia. This symptom is associated with bleeding in the lower digestive tract (from the small intestine to the rectum). Black, tarry stools are also a sign of blood; this is known as melaena or digested blood. This usually originates in the upper digestive tract (from the mouth to the stomach). Colitis is a term often used in combination with blood in the poo; it means inflammation of the large intestine.

 

What to do

Blood in your dog’s poo: what to do

If your dog is also vomiting blood, weak, has pale gums, or is having breathing difficulties, you need to make an emergency vet appointment.

If your dog is less than 2-3 months old, speak to a vet straight away. Young puppies can become seriously ill much quicker than adults.

If you notice blood in your dog’s poo, follow these steps:

• Check if the stool is firm, soft or watery. The appearance of the blood and poo can help your vet with the diagnosis. A few spots of fresh red blood might just be from straining.
• Monitor your dog for any other signs of illness. Such as drinking more than normal, vomiting, straining or reduced appetite.
• Some foods or medications, such as activated charcoal, may make your dog’s poo to look like it has blood in it when it doesn’t.

Most causes of blood in the poo are straightforward to treat and clear quickly. However, there are some less common causes that are more severe. We recommend always speaking to a vet if your dog has blood in the poo.

 

Our Joii vets are available 24 hours a day for advice.

 

Causes

Most common causes of blood in your dog’s poo

• Infections: bacterial, viral, parasites
• Eating things they shouldn’t
• Blockages in the digestive tract
• Food reactions: including allergies, sudden diet changes and IBD
• Toxins: including rat poison, xylitol, blue-green algae, ibuprofen or aspirin
• Anal gland disease
• Pancreatitis
• Kidney and liver disease
• Stress

Haemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE) also known as acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome (AHDS) can be a life-threatening condition in dogs. The main symptoms are a sudden onset of severe vomiting and diarrhoea, both with blood. The cause is currently unknown. Speak to a vet right away if your dog shows these symptoms.

 

When to worry

When to worry about blood in your dog’s poo

Emergency treatment is advised if:

• Your dog has pale gums, breathing difficulties or collapse
• Your dog has sudden onset excessive vomiting and diarrhoea with blood

Call your vet if:

• Your dog has black, tarry poo
• Your dog is in pain and has bloody diarrhoea

Call us and speak to one of our Joii Vets if:

• You’ve noticed a few spots of blood in your dog’s poo but they are otherwise well
• You have any questions about parasite preventatives for dogs
• You need any diet advice for your dog

 

Prevention

Tips on how to prevent blood in your dog’s poo

• Keep your dog up to date with vet-recommended parasite prevention and yearly vaccinations
• Make sure they are on a high-quality and complete diet
• Avoid sudden diet changes. Gradually transition over 5-7 days or longer.
• Muzzle train your dog and use the muzzle on walks if they constantly scavenge. Make sure your household bin is secure; and never leave food, medications or other toxins lying around.
• Avoid stressful situations for your dog.

 

Diagnosis

What tests are needed when there is blood in your dog’s poo?

A physical exam may be all that is needed. This is important to check your dog’s tummy for pain and to assess if they have a fever. If the symptoms are not responding to treatment or are particularly severe, your vet may recommend the following tests:

• Stool tests to check for bacteria, virus and parasites
• Blood and urine tests
• Imaging: x-rays, ultrasound, and/or endoscopy
• Biopsy of the digestive tract

 

Home treatment

How to help at home if there is blood in your dog’s poo

Speak to a vet if your dog has blood in the poo. Home treatment may be recommended.

This usually involves:

• Giving probiotics
• Allowing them to rest and recover in a quiet, warm environment with access to fresh water
• Giving a special diet: this may be bland food for 24-48 hours. Or, if needed for longer, a highly digestible commercial food, such as Hills Prescription Diet i/d.
• Avoiding any treats or chews until the symptoms have resolved.

 

Vet treatment

Vet treatment when there is blood in your dog’s poo

Some cases will resolve with an appropriate diet and probiotics. If the symptoms are severe or recurring, your vet may recommend the following:

• Antibiotics
• Parasite treatment
• Tummy protectants
• Fluid therapy
• Blood transfusions

Other treatments may be necessary, depending on the underlying cause. For example, surgery for a foreign body or vitamin K for rat bait poisonings.

 

Risk

Are some dogs more at risk of developing blood in their poo?

• Dogs that are unvaccinated and or not routinely wormed
• Dogs that scavenge
• Dogs with anxiety or stress
• Dogs with allergies

AHDS is more commonly diagnosed in: Labradors, Maltese and Yorkshire Terriers, Miniature Pinschers, Miniature Schnauzers, and Miniature Poodles.

Other causes of blood in the poo

• Lungworm
• Viral: parvovirus, distemper
• Bacterial: salmonella, campylobacter
• Stomach ulcers
• Rectal growths
• Clotting disorders
• Auto-immune disorders: IMHA, IMTP
• Injuries from sharp objects
• Cancer