{"id":12630,"date":"2024-01-31T11:48:50","date_gmt":"2024-01-31T19:48:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/osfbl01.justfoodfordogs.com\/?p=12630"},"modified":"2026-09-30T11:00:46","modified_gmt":"2026-09-30T18:00:46","slug":"how-to-firm-up-dog-poop","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-to-firm-up-dog-poop","title":{"rendered":"How to Firm Up Dog Poop"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"12630\" class=\"elementor elementor-12630\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2c4e908c e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"2c4e908c\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-47021dc elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"47021dc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"178\" data-end=\"413\"><strong>TL;LR: How to Firm up Dog Poop:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"119\" data-end=\"470\">\n<li data-start=\"119\" data-end=\"180\">\n<p data-start=\"121\" data-end=\"180\"><strong data-start=\"121\" data-end=\"139\">Know the 4 C\u2019s<\/strong>: color, consistency, content, coating.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"181\" data-end=\"252\">\n<p data-start=\"183\" data-end=\"252\"><strong data-start=\"183\" data-end=\"193\">Causes<\/strong>: diet changes, stress, infections, or poor-quality food.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"253\" data-end=\"353\">\n<p data-start=\"255\" data-end=\"353\"><strong data-start=\"255\" data-end=\"264\">Fixes<\/strong>: hydration, bland diet (chicken, rice, pumpkin), probiotics, and high-quality protein.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"354\" data-end=\"417\">\n<p data-start=\"356\" data-end=\"417\"><strong data-start=\"356\" data-end=\"365\">Avoid<\/strong>: fatty foods, dairy, and human meds like Imodium.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"418\" data-end=\"470\">\n<p data-start=\"420\" data-end=\"470\"><strong data-start=\"420\" data-end=\"433\">See a vet<\/strong> if loose stools persist or worsen.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"472\" data-end=\"588\">The full post dives deeper into safe home remedies, foods to avoid, and red flags every dog parent should know.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7409c9bb elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7409c9bb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Experts in human medicine are constantly learning more about how important the gastrointestinal tract is for overall health. That\u2019s also true of your dog\u2019s digestive system. Your dog\u2019s gut, just like your own, is a critical part of his health and well-being. Before learning how to firm up dog poop, it&#8217;s important to learn more about <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/dog-microbiome.html\">how the gut works<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Sometimes, dietary changes, new food, stress, and conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, bacterial infections, and parasites, among other problems, can have a dramatic impact on your dog\u2019s health. Among the first symptoms you might see in that case is your dog\u2019s loose stools.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>You might be wondering just how you can firm up your dog\u2019s stool since digestive health is so important. You also might want to know what your dog\u2019s poop is supposed to look like and what you can do to help with soft stools. Let\u2019s take a look at your pooch\u2019s digestive health, what loose stools mean, and the steps you can take to firm up dog stools.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<h2>What Does \u201cSoft Dog Poop\u201d Really Mean?<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:image {\"id\":13585,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\",\"align\":\"center\"} --><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osfbl01.justfoodfordogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Poop-Image_Blog-1024x421.jpg\" alt=\"cleaning up dog poop\"><\/figure>\n<p><!-- \/wp:image --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>First of all, it\u2019s important to understand that there is a difference between diarrhea and soft stools. Soft stools still have some form, and you can pick them up to dispose of them. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/dog-diarrhea-what-does-it-mean.html\">Diarrhea is runnier<\/a>, and you\u2019re not going to be able to pick it up.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Diarrhea can be caused by numerous health issues, including a bacterial infection, a viral infection, or a parasitic infection. There are also some chronic health problems, like inflammatory bowel disease, that can cause diarrhea.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Diarrhea can also be caused by:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:list --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul role=\"presentation\"><!-- wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>garbage consumption<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>dietary indiscretions (a few too many treats or human food consumption)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>fatty foods<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>intestinal parasites<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>diet change<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>a weak immune system<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>food intolerances<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>certain medications that can affect the normal bacteria living in your dog\u2019s gut.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>You can consider that your dog has diarrhea if he has abnormal bowel movements of loose, watery stool three or more times a day. If it lasts for more than one or two days, it\u2019s time to call the vet.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Soft Stools<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Soft stools, on the other hand, often indicate dietary insufficiencies, or in other words, a diet lacking in certain nutrients, usually protein and fiber. Food intolerances can also cause soft stools, as can chronic stress. In fact, stress <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/colitis-in-dogs.html\">colitis<\/a> is one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/vcahospitals.com\/know-your-pet\/colitis-in-dogs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-describedby=\"audioeye_new_window_message\">most common causes of diarrhea in dogs<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Both diarrhea and soft stools, if left untreated, can cause bigger health issues down the road. They can result in dehydration and metabolic imbalances, which is why you want to monitor your dog\u2019s poop to ensure the issue gets resolved.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>If you do notice either diarrhea or soft stools, try to identify any changes you\u2019ve made recently to your dog\u2019s routine. For example, did you change to a new dog food? Has your dog recently gotten into something he shouldn&#8217;t have, like the garbage? Is your dog getting enough protein and fiber? It is essential to report any such changes, digestive issues, or deficiencies to your veterinarian.<\/p>\n<h2>What Should Your Dog\u2019s Poop Look Like?<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:image {\"id\":13222,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\",\"align\":\"center\"} --><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osfbl01.justfoodfordogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/blood-in-dog-poop-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"how many times a day should a dog poop\"><\/figure>\n<p><!-- \/wp:image --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>The digestive system is responsible for numerous important functions, including:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:list --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul role=\"presentation\"><!-- wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>processing food<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>absorbing (and even producing) certain vitamins and other nutrients<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>eliminating waste in the form of feces<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>When compared with humans,the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-long-does-it-take-for-a-dog-to-digest-food.html\">dog\u2019s digestive<\/a> tract is shorter. This means a healthy dog will digest their meals in approximately one-third of the time it takes a human to digest their food.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Dogs also have different digestive enzymes in their stomachs and saliva. That is why they can eat and digest certain foods that humans cannot. Because of the role the gastrointestinal tract plays in your best friend\u2019s health, his bowel movements are going to be a good indicator of his gut health.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>When it comes to how your best friend\u2019s poop should look, consider the four C\u2019s: color, consistency, content, and coating.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Color<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Normally, dog stool is chocolate-brown in color. The color is affected by the pigment bilirubin, which is released in bile by the gallbladder. The color can vary and still be normal, but some abnormal colors that you want to pay attention to include the following:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:list --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul role=\"presentation\"><!-- wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Black Stools:<\/strong> This indicates bleeding high up in the digestive tract. The stool can appear kind of like tar if this is happening.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Red Streaks in the Stool:<\/strong> Bright red in the stool indicates bleeding in the lower digestive tract.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Grey or Yellow Stools: <\/strong>These colors can indicate broader health problems involving the pancreas, liver, or gallbladder.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s important to remember that stool color can be off every now and again. If an abnormal color persists for more than two bowel movements, however, it\u2019s time for a checkup.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Consistency<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Your veterinarian will use a numerical score for evaluating your dog\u2019s stool consistency. <a href=\"https:\/\/vhc.missouri.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/Nestle-Purina-Fecal-Scoring-System.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-describedby=\"audioeye_new_window_message\">The scoring system<\/a> they use is a 7-point system where 1 is rock hard (too hard), and 7 is a puddle of poop (too soft).<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Ideally, your dog\u2019s poop should score a 2; that is, it should be firm, segmented, and shaped like a caterpillar. When you press on it, it feels like Play-Doh, and it holds its shape.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>If your dog\u2019s stool is too soft and runny, it means that the large intestine is not reabsorbing water as it should. If it\u2019s too hard, it can indicate dehydration and other types of problems.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Content<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s also important to look at what is actually in your dog\u2019s feces. The inside should look the same as the rest of the stool. If it doesn\u2019t, that can indicate a problem.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>What kind of things might you see? If your buddy has a bad parasitic infection, you might see worms in his poop. Roundworms are long and skinny, but you might also see just parts of parasites. For example, tapeworms shed egg-containing sacs that look like rice in your dog\u2019s poop.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>You might also see evidence your buddy has been snacking on things he shouldn\u2019t have been ingesting, like sock pieces, plastic, or even rocks. You might also see lots of fur. This can indicate a problem associated with overgrooming, such as allergies, boredom, or even a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-to-help-your-dog-with-itchy-skin.html\">skin disease<\/a> of some kind.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Coating<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Basically, your pooch\u2019s poop should not have any coating or film on it. It shouldn\u2019t leave any kind of trail behind when you pick it up off the grass. If it does have a coating of mucous, that could indicate inflammation in the large intestines, and that is associated with diarrhea.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<h2>How to Firm Up Soft Dog Poop<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:image {\"id\":13223,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\",\"align\":\"center\"} --><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osfbl01.justfoodfordogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/cleaning-up-dog-poop-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"dog watching human pick up his poop\"><\/figure>\n<p><!-- \/wp:image --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>There are several things you can do to help firm up your dog\u2019s stools if they are soft. Here are a few things you can try that may help.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>1. Water, Water, and More Water<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Hydration supports healthy digestion. Your dog should always have access to clean, fresh water for drinking, but it\u2019s particularly important if your dog&#8217;s poo is soft or diarrhea.<\/p>\n<p>As mentioned, the main role of the large intestine is to resorb water as waste moves through. When your dog has diarrhea, the waste is moving too quickly through the intestinal tract, and it\u2019s not able to sufficiently resorb water.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>That means your dog is losing water and can easily become dehydrated. Dehydration can quickly become lethal if it\u2019s not treated. What\u2019s more, water is important for binding fiber in the gut. So when pet parents provide their puppy with plentiful drinking water, you\u2019re helping to firm up their stool.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>2. Electrolyte Replacement<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s also important to realize that dog diarrhea disrupts the electrolyte balance in your buddy\u2019s system. To address that problem, you can give your furry friend over-the-counter oral rehydration solutions (ORS) by mixing them in with his drinking water.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>If you don\u2019t happen to have access to an ORS, you can easily make one by mixing 8 teaspoons of sugar and one teaspoon of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/is-salt-bad-for-dogs.html\">salt<\/a> in a liter of water. That will help to rebalance his system and keep him from going downhill quickly.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>3. Fasting<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Fasting for 12 to 24 hours can help slow acute cases of dog diarrhea. Especially if the culprit is dry kibble or something else not agreeing with them. That can often be enough time to allow the digestive tract to settle down. If it seems to help, you can then introduce some small portions of food to see if the diarrhea resumes.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>4. Bland Diet<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/product\/balanced-remedy\/FBS10040208.html\">bland diet<\/a> may also help to firm up your dog\u2019s stools. This might be something like chicken and rice recipes, or you could also give him pureed pumpkin or bananas. Those have higher levels of fiber, which help to firm up his stool. Your vet might recommend giving him some fiber supplements like Metamucil.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>5. High-Quality, High-Protein Diet<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>For normal, healthy bowel movements, dogs need sufficient levels of digestible protein. Chicken and turkey are probably better choices as opposed to beef or other types of protein sources.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s also a good idea to limit foods containing a lot of preservatives as well as pat\u00e9 style dog foods. Choose dog foods with natural ingredients and transparent nutritional labels. If you\u2019re preparing something at home, consider giving white rice instead of other types of carbohydrates.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>6. No Dairy<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Dairy is a common cause of soft stools in dogs, so it\u2019s best to remove that from your pet\u2019s diet altogether. It\u2019s normal for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/B9780323960182000316\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-describedby=\"audioeye_new_window_message\">many mammals to become lactose intolerant<\/a> after they are weaned. Humans are an interesting exception. Humans consuming the milk of domesticated animals resulted in genetic changes allowing some to tolerate lactose after weaning.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>For your pooch, however, it remains something that is difficult for them to digest. If your pooch suffers from chronic soft stools, removing dairy from his diet may make all the difference.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>7. Minimize Fatty Foods<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Fatty foods are also a common cause of diarrhea or soft stools. Blander, milder foods can be a relatively easy way to firm up your doggie\u2019s bowel movements. It\u2019s important, however, to realize that it might take some time to see an improvement. You should also avoid any food that is fried in oil, as those are very difficult for your dog to digest.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>8. Probiotic Supplements<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Just as with humans, there are good bacteria living in your dog\u2019s intestinal tract. Bacteria in the gut produce necessary vitamins, like vitamin K, which is essential for clotting, and they help with digesting food.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Unlike humans, however, the bacteria in a dog\u2019s gut is different from ours. That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to make sure you are giving <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/product\/probiotic-chews-for-dogs\/50020178.html\">probiotic supplements designed for dogs<\/a> and not for humans. Those designed for humans can actually make your dog\u2019s loose stool worse. Fortiflora is one probiotic that is specifically made for dogs. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>9. Fiber Is Fine!<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:image {\"id\":14003,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} --><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osfbl01.justfoodfordogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Pumpkin_Puree-1024x961.jpg\" alt=\"pumpkin puree\"><\/figure>\n<p><!-- \/wp:image --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Finally, adding fiber to your dog\u2019s diet is a great way to firm up his poop. Fiber helps absorb extra fluid in the digestive tract. It helps your dog feel fuller, and it aids in digestion. Canned pumpkin or sweet potato is a great addition to your dog\u2019s diet for this purpose, as is white rice.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>It can also help to give your dog some raw fruit and uncooked carrots for extra fiber. Avoid canned vegetables and other processed foods since they tend to have excessive sodium.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<h2>What Should You NOT Do for Doggie Diarrhea?<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>While there are some over-the-counter supplements and medications that can be helpful for your dog\u2019s diarrhea or soft stools, you have to be very careful with them. That\u2019s why it\u2019s best to avoid <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/human-medications-that-are-toxic-to-dogs.html\">certain medications<\/a> you can buy at the store for humans.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>This is particularly true if you don\u2019t know for sure what is causing your dog\u2019s problem. Some medications can actually do more harm than good. For example, Pepto Bismol and Kaopectate both have bismuth subsalicylate as an active ingredient. It\u2019s a derivative of aspirin (salicylic acid). If your dog gets the wrong dose of that, it can be toxic.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Additionally, if your dog has an underlying condition that\u2019s responsible for his diarrhea, like intestinal bleeding, for example, certain medications can make that worse. They can affect the clotting functions and times, which can lead to weakness as a result of anemia or potentially worse symptoms.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Imodium is one medication that you have to be particularly careful with because it is a synthetic opioid that can cause constipation. It works by slowing down the normal movement of the gut, called peristalsis. But too much of a good thing is a bad thing, and if the dose isn\u2019t just right, it can cause constipation, bloating, sedation, and even pancreatitis.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Additionally, some dog breeds, like herding dogs (Shelties, Australian Shepherds, and Collies, for example), carry a mutant form of a specific gene that can limit their ability to break down drugs like Imodium. So, you don\u2019t want to give it to those breeds.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Finally, some of the human medications you might give, like tablet anti-inflammatory medications, can appear as metal on an X-ray, which could be misleading for your veterinarian.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<h2>Always Talk to Your Veterinarian First<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:image {\"id\":13752,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\",\"align\":\"center\"} --><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osfbl01.justfoodfordogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/vet-weiner-dog.jpg\" alt=\"what toxins cause pancreatitis in dogs\"><\/figure>\n<p><!-- \/wp:image --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Before giving your dog any kind of medication or other home remedies, it\u2019s vital that you talk to your veterinarian first. It\u2019s also a good idea to get your pup a checkup for diarrhea or soft stools since the underlying cause might be something like a parasite that requires treatment.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Giardia, for example, is a very common water-borne parasite that causes diarrhea. The treatment for it is a drug called Metronidazole, which helps firm up stools. But you need to have a veterinarian check for that or other possible underlying causes before you give anything to your pooch or change his routine.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Just check with your vet before you change anything or give your best friend something you think will help. You might also want to collect a stool sample for your vet to test.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<h2>Healthy Recipes for Digestive Health<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for a good dog food for your best furry friend&#8217;s sensitive tummy, explore fresh, whole ingredients that deliver human-grade nutrition.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<h2>Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-114f155 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"114f155\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-464d30f elementor-widget elementor-widget-n-accordion\" data-id=\"464d30f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;default_state&quot;:&quot;expanded&quot;,&quot;max_items_expended&quot;:&quot;one&quot;,&quot;n_accordion_animation_duration&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;ms&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:400,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"nested-accordion.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-n-accordion\" aria-label=\"Accordion. Open links with Enter or Space, close with Escape, and navigate with Arrow Keys\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-7370\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" open>\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"1\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-7370\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><div class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> Am I feeding my dog too much? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-7370\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-76d5f88 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"76d5f88\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-316f5ab elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"316f5ab\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>That&#8217;s ultimately for your vet to determine, but if your dog shows signs like weight gain or reduced energy, overfeeding could potentially be the culprit.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-7371\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" >\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"2\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-7371\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><div class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> Can feeding too often cause soft poop? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-7371\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c9ab213 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"c9ab213\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0885c41 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"0885c41\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Yes, feeding too much\/too often may cause soft poop or diarrhea.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-7372\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" >\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"3\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-7372\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><div class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> Could my dog be eating something outside that\u2019s causing loose stools? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-7372\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e4fdd2e e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"e4fdd2e\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a108ba8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a108ba8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Yes. Dogs who eat something they shouldn&#8217;t from outside, like squirrel poop, geese droppings, leaves, grass, etc., may be the cause of its loose stools.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Am I feeding my dog too much?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"That&#8217;s ultimately for your vet to determine, but if your dog shows signs like weight gain or reduced energy, overfeeding could potentially be the culprit.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can feeding too often cause soft poop?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes, feeding too much\\\/too often may cause soft poop or diarrhea.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Could my dog be eating something outside that\\u2019s causing loose stools?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. Dogs who eat something they shouldn&#8217;t from outside, like squirrel poop, geese droppings, leaves, grass, etc., may be the cause of its loose stools.\"}}]}<\/script>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-05c0eaf elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"05c0eaf\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><em>This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and\/or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and\/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>TL;LR: How to Firm up Dog Poop: Know the 4 C\u2019s: color, consistency, content, coating. Causes: diet changes, stress, infections, or poor-quality food. Fixes: hydration, bland diet (chicken, rice, pumpkin), probiotics, and high-quality protein. Avoid: fatty foods, dairy, and human meds like Imodium. See a vet if loose stools persist or worsen. The full post [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":13224,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","_jffd_show_updated":"1","footnotes":"","_ppma_block_editor_authors":"{\"authors\":[280,289],\"author_categories\":{\"280\":\"1\",\"289\":\"3\"},\"fallback_author_user\":\"14\",\"ppma_author_box_select\":\"\",\"selected_authors\":[{\"id\":280,\"display_name\":\"JustFoodForDogs\",\"is_guest\":0,\"category_id\":\"1\"},{\"id\":289,\"display_name\":\"Angela Beal, DVM\",\"is_guest\":0,\"category_id\":\"3\"}]}"},"categories":[80],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[280,289],"class_list":["post-12630","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-wellbeing"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v28.8 (Yoast SEO v28.8) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Firm Up Dog Poop<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Find out the causes of soft poop and learn how to firm up your dog\u2019s stool with safe home remedies and key vet warning signs to support gut health.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-to-firm-up-dog-poop\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Firm Up Dog Poop\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Find out the causes of soft poop and learn how to firm up your dog\u2019s stool with safe home remedies and key vet warning signs to support gut health.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" 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