What does the colour of the feces say about your dog?

As dog owners, we always want the best for our four-legged friends. We ensure that they are well fed, get enough exercise and visit the vet regularly for check-ups. But there is one aspect of our dogs' health that is often overlooked - the colour of their stool.

It may not be the most appealing topic to talk about, but the colour of your dog's stool can tell a lot about his overall health. So let's delve deeper into this topic and find out what different colours of stool can mean.

Brown stools

Brown stools are often the normal colour, which indicates that the digestive process and nutrient absorption are going well. The colour of the stool is often brown due to the presence of oxidized blood from the intestinal wall. This is a natural reaction of the body and usually indicates healthy intestinal flora. However, it is important to know that certain foods can affect the colour of the stool, such as yellow corn or beetroot, which can turn the stool yellow or red, for example.

In addition to the colour, the texture of the feces also plays a role in assessing a dog's health. Healthy texture is usually characterized by firm, well-formed stools. This means that the stool is not too hard or too dry, but also not too soft or too thin. Correct texture indicates proper functioning of the digestive system and indicates that the dog is absorbing nutrients properly. It is therefore important to regularly check both the colour and texture of a dog's feces in order to notice any abnormalities in a timely manner and to take action if necessary.

Black stools

If you notice black stools in your dog, this may indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract, such as stomach bleeding. This can be caused by a number of factors, including stomach ulcers or internal bleeding. It is important to contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe black feces.

In some cases, black stools in your dog have other causes and may not be anything serious. If your dog has eaten certain foods rich in iron or other minerals, the feces may turn black.

Red or purple stools

Red or purple stools in a dog may indicate bleeding in the lower digestive tract, such as the colon or rectum. This can be caused by conditions such as intestinal parasites, inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract or tumors.

Food can also play a role in the red colour of the stool. Raw vegetables or red fruits can turn the stool red. Therefore, a red colour does not always have to be serious. However, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian to be sure.

Gray stools

Gray stools may indicate a problem with your dog's gallbladder, liver or pancreas. It may also mean that your dog is not absorbing enough fats from his diet. If you notice gray stools in your dog, it is important to have this examined by a professional. As with the above colours, gray stools can be caused by certain foods, for example when the food contains a high level of iron or nutritional supplements.

Green stools

Although green stool can sometimes occur after eating certain foods, it can also indicate rapid passage of food through the digestive tract. This can happen if your dog has eaten something he shouldn't or if he is suffering from diarrhea. It is also advisable to contact your veterinarian.

White stools

If a dog has white stools, this may indicate liver or gallbladder problems. It can also indicate excess fat in the stool, which can occur with a high-fat diet or conditions that affect fat digestion. In this case it is advisable to consult the vet to determine the cause .

Orange stool

If a dog has orange stools, it could indicate an underlying health problem such as liver or gallbladder disease, or even an autoimmune disease called AIHA. AIHA is a serious condition that affects the dog's immune system. It is therefore important to go to the vet immediately to determine the cause of the orange stool.

Yellow stools

A dog with yellow stools may possibly have liver or gallbladder disease. It can also indicate excess bilirubin in the stool. Bilirubin is a substance released during the breakdown of red blood cells. Other possible causes of yellow stools may include taking certain medications or consuming foods with a yellow dye. If you are unsure what is causing your dog's yellow stool, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.

Now that we've discussed what the different stool colours can mean, we'd like to share possible solutions to common problems:

• Vet visit: If you have any concerns about the colour of your dog's feces, it is always best to contact your veterinarian for a thorough examination.
• Change the diet: If you notice that the colour of your dog's feces is different and there are no other symptoms, it may help to switch to an easily digestible diet. Talk to your vet about this to ensure you make the right choice.
• Prevent parasites: Regular treatment against worms and other parasites is essential to ensure the health of your dog. Consult your veterinarian for the appropriate treatment regimen.
• Hydration: Make sure your dog drinks enough water to prevent dehydration, especially if he is experiencing diarrhea.
• Digestive treats : Use special treats to support your dog's digestion.

By paying attention to the colour of your dog's feces, you can identify potential health problems early and take action on them quickly. Healthy digestion contributes to your dog's overall well-being, resulting in a happier and more active lifestyle. Stay alert, caring and attentive to all signals given by your four-legged friend!