What does normal dog poop look like?

Every dog owner can relate: picking up dog poop is one of the more unpleasant parts of being a dog owner. But it is important to know what is normal and what is not. A healthy bowel movement in dogs generally equals good health. So next time you pick up a pile, take a look before you put it in the bag. Dog poop gives a good picture of digestive health and general immunity in dogs.

The 4 C's of healthy dog poop

There are 4 important characteristics to look for when examining dog faeces. Below, we take a closer look at each of them.

1. Consistency

The ideal dog poop has the shape of a tree trunk and the consistency of Play-Doh. It should be crushable but hold its shape when you pick it up. Here are 3 characteristics that signal something is off: Hard stools or constipation: Possible causes are dehydration or lack of fibre in the diet. Ensure your dog drinks enough water and gets regular exercise. Increased or decreased volume: This can be caused by digestive problems, a change in diet or an intestinal infection. Hydration and activity help here too. Shapeless stools or diarrhoea: This is often linked to a change in diet, a food allergy or an infection. Drinking lots of water, feeding hypoallergenic dog food, or adding a probiotic supplement to the meal are all worth trying.

2. Colour

The perfect dog poop should be chocolate brown. If the colour deviates from this, consult your veterinarian. Here are some indications of what different colours can mean: Yellow or orange stool: Can indicate a liver problem. Consult your vet soon. Green poop: May indicate a gallbladder problem, or may be the result of eating grass. Grey poop: A possible cause is a problem with the pancreas. Black poop: Usually a sign of bleeding in the upper intestinal tract. Should be investigated promptly.

3. Contents

To know exactly what is in your dog's poop, you need a microscope. But sometimes you can see things yourself with the naked eye. If you notice any of the following, visit your vet: Red streaks in the stool: May indicate blood. If the consistency is otherwise normal, it could also be a small tear near the anus. White, rice-like spots: Watch out for tapeworm. Get a faecal exam first, and use an anthelmintic if the exam confirms tapeworm segments. Grass or other unknown matter: Dogs occasionally eat random things. This is usually harmless, but if you suspect an intestinal blockage, have a vet examine the stool. Fur in the stool: Eating their own hair can be a sign of stress, anxiety or allergy. An anti-stress supplement can sometimes make a real difference.

4. Coating

Ideally, healthy dog poop should not contain any mucus or slippery coating. A very thin, occasional layer is normal. Constant mucus, however, is a sign of intestinal inflammation and can be caused by parasites or bacterial infections. If the cause is food intolerances, dietary changes and probiotics may be all that is needed. In more severe cases, antibiotics may be necessary.

What does healthy dog poop look like?

A brief summary of the main points:

• Diet and lifestyle are the most important factors in keeping bowel movements healthy. A probiotic supplement can be a good addition on top of a balanced diet.
• Use the four C's to monitor your dog's poop regularly.
• A stress-free environment and a hypoallergenic diet are important for dogs with sensitive stomachs. An anti-stress supplement can make a real difference.
• Don't worry if the texture changes from time to time. This is normal, especially after a new food or snack.
• Contact your veterinarian early in case of doubt.