Why is my chihuahua pooping black, tarry stool and losing weight?

I'm so sorry to hear that Chi Chi isn't feeling well. She may have one problem that is causing all her signs or she may have 2 separate problems. I see that she is a Dachshund, and I'm sure you know that they are known for having back problems. So, she may be having back pain that is causing her to not want to jump and not be able to do the stairs normally. Back problems in Dachshunds can be very serious, so I would recommend keeping her rested and having her veterinarian examine her to see if they can find any back pain or abnormalities on her neurological examination. Our biggest fear about black tarry stools is that they can be be due to bleeding in the stomach. If you have given Chi Chi any medications that are not prescribed by your veterinarian, be sure to stop those right away. Bleeding into the stomach can be serious, so I would recommend Chi Chi seeing a veterinarian ASAP. Good luck! I hope that was helpful and that Chi Chi feels better soon. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I would recommend Charlie be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. The tar like appearance to his stool is likely due to digested blood, indicating bleeding in the GI tract of some kind (a growth, an ulcer, secondary to toxin ingestion, etc.). I would have him seen, have any necessary testing done (X-rays, bloodwork), and get started on treatment to resolve his issues (GI protectant, anti-nausea medication, anti-diarrheal, antacids, for example). Good luck!

I am sorry to hear about Lilly. Unfortunately these are very serious and concerning symptoms. Dark tarry stool can indicate bleeding in the GI tract, which could be from an ulcer, a tumor, and more. Unfortunately there is not any over the counter treatment we can offer since we aren't certain of the cause of her symptoms. I would look into whether or not there is a low-cost clinic in your area. Sometimes the humane society or APA will have one. Other options can include seeing if the clinic offers payments (some do and others work with outside companies such as Care Credit to offer payments), or even asking a family member for a loan. You can find more ideas on how to help with the cost of vet care at http://m.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Weight loss and possibly bloody stools could be the result of a lot conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, parasites, among many other possibilities. I recommend that you check in with a veterinarian who can diagnose the issue and start therapy for Lucy as needed. Best of luck!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I highly recommend that you have Nico evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible for further assessment and treatment. Black tarry stools can be observed with upper gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding. Things like parvovirus, gastrointestinal ulcers or parasites, among other possibilities can cause that. Good luck!

Oh no, poor Pixee! It's very concerning that she is passing feces that have blood in it. If she is pooping a lot, she could have diarrhea. She really needs to see a vet as soon as possible because blood in the feces can have some very serious causes including eating something toxic, a foreign body, trauma to the GI tract, or GI tumors. I would take Pixee into a vet immediately to diagnose the cause of her bloody feces and the vet can discuss treatment options.

Based on what you seeing, having a fecal sample brought in to your veterinarian for analysis would be a great plan. He or she will be able to tell you if there are any intestinal parasites present. This is one of the most common reasons for blood in the stool, and weight loss despite a normal appetite. If you can not get to the veterinarian, treatment with a dewormer and/or drug to kill coccidia might be warranted. These can be obtained at most pet stores or tractor supply.