Finding blood in your dog’s poop can be scary, but it doesn’t always mean an emergency. From something as mild as a diet change to more serious causes like parasites or infection, it’s important to know what to watch for and when to call your vet.
What Causes Blood in Dog Stool?
There are many possible reasons for blood in a dog’s stool. Some are mild and pass on their own, while others need veterinary attention. Here are the most common causes:
1. Parasites
Worms like hookworms, whipworms, or giardia can cause bleeding in the intestines, especially in puppies or dogs who haven’t had regular deworming.
2. Dietary Indiscretion
Dogs who eat trash, spoiled food, or something hard to digest may irritate their gut. This can lead to inflammation and sometimes bleeding.
3. Stress or Anxiety
Believe it or not, dogs can develop digestive issues from stress—like after boarding, moving, or being left alone for long periods.
4. Constipation
Straining to poop can cause small tears in the rectum, which can result in bright red blood on the stool or tissue.
5. Infections
Bacterial or viral infections (like parvovirus in unvaccinated pups) may cause bloody diarrhea and serious illness.
6. Trauma
Dogs that chew on sharp bones or swallow foreign objects may injure their digestive tract.
7. Cancer or Growths
Tumors in the GI tract, while less common, can cause internal bleeding or blood in the stool, especially in older dogs.
What Does Blood in Dog Stool Look Like?
Blood in poop can appear in different ways, and each tells you something about where the bleeding may be coming from:
1. Bright Red Blood (Hematochezia)
This usually comes from the lower digestive tract (like the colon or rectum). It can look like streaks of red on the outside of the stool or drops on the ground afterward.
2. Dark, Tarry Stool (Melena)
This indicates digested blood, meaning the bleeding happened higher up in the stomach or small intestines. It often looks black, sticky, and has a strong smell.
3. Mucus with Blood
A slimy, jelly-like coating with red streaks is often linked to colitis or inflammation in the colon.
If you're unsure, take a picture or bring a sample to your vet—they’ll be able to test it.
When to Worry About Blood in Dog Stool
Not all cases are emergencies, but these signs mean it’s time to call the vet:
- Large amounts of blood
- Ongoing diarrhea or vomiting
- Lethargy or signs of pain
- Pale gums or fast breathing
- Blood with vomiting, or blood with diarrhea
- You see this more than once in a short time
If your dog is still playful, eating, and acting normal after a single episode, monitor them. But if you’re unsure—trust your gut and call the vet.
Can Blood in Dog Stool Go Away On Its Own?
Sometimes, yes. If it’s from a small irritation (like eating something unusual or stress), it may stop after a day or two.
But if you see:
- Blood for more than 48 hours
- Increasing frequency
- Blood with other symptoms (vomiting, loss of appetite)
…then a vet visit is needed.
How Vets Diagnose the Cause
Depending on the symptoms, your vet may:
- Do a fecal test to check for parasites or bacteria
- Suggest a diet trial or switch to a bland diet
- Order bloodwork to check organ health
- Use X-rays or ultrasound if they suspect a blockage or growth
Treatment may include:
- Deworming medications
- Antibiotics or probiotics
- IV fluids (for dehydration)
- A prescription diet
Home Care Tips (While You Wait or After Vet Visit)
- Offer small portions of bland food (boiled chicken and rice)
- Keep fresh water available at all times
- Avoid treats, rawhide, bones, or fatty foods
- Track how often your dog poops and what it looks like
If symptoms get worse or don’t improve, follow up with your vet.
FAQs About Blood in Dog Stool
Is blood in dog stool always bad?
Not always—but it’s always worth paying attention to. Mild cases may pass quickly, but repeated or severe bleeding can signal serious issues.
Can worms cause blood in dog stool?
Yes. Hookworms, whipworms, and other parasites are common causes, especially in puppies.
What if there's blood and vomiting?
This combination is more serious. It could mean infection, toxin ingestion, or something obstructing the gut. See a vet right away.
Could it be cancer?
In older dogs, blood in the stool could be a sign of cancer, especially if it's persistent or comes with weight loss and fatigue. Your vet can help rule this out.
Can it be from eating something unusual?
Absolutely. Many cases come from dogs eating garbage, spicy foods, or foreign objects.
Final Thoughts
Your dog can’t tell you when something hurts—but their poop can. Spotting blood is a signal to pause, observe, and maybe get some expert help. Trust your instincts, and remember: when in doubt, call your vet.
Need more help or have questions about your dog’s health? Our team at Pawsportal is always here to make biology and behavior simple and actionable for dog parents like you.
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