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My dog's poop is a strange color and loose. Is it blood or illness?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 8 months old

Is this color of his potty is ok or it has blood or what? Ian attaching photos and he is active in playing and eating and in all way so why he has this kinda color of poopwhat does this indicate?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 22nd, 2017

From the picture it does not look like there is blood in Bruno's stool. The stool does look a little loose/unformed which could indicate colitis. Colitis is an inflammation of the colon and could be caused by many different things such as intestinal parasites, inflammatory bowel disease or a food allergy/intolerance. Severe diarrhea can cause weight loss, malnutrition and dehydration. I would recommend having a fecal performed at your vet to rule out intestinal parasites. If the diarrhea becomes worse then you may need to bring Bruno in to be evaluated. He may need a diet change or antibiotics or probiotics to help clear up the soft stools.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 2nd, 2017
Yes, that appears to be a tinge of blood. I would not consider this life threatening or an emergency however, I think you should have him checked out by your vet in the next week or two. They need to do a thorough exam including a rectal exam and fecal test. The most common cause for blood in the stool in a young dog like Bruno would be parasites. That being said, it could also be dietary related, an allergy or any number of things that I think may be less likely in a dog his age. Here is a link to an article regarding this issue:

http://www.petplace.com/article/dogs/diseases-conditions-of-dogs/symptoms/hematochezia-blood-in-stool-in-dogs

I hope this helps. Best wishes!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 29th, 2018
Hello, sorry to hear about Bruno. You may attach a picture if you'd like, however, the majority of times gas and abnormal stools may be associated with some form of dietary indiscretion. Meaning, they may have ate something that caused their GI tract to become upset.

The signs you are describing are very mild and thus, no immediate need to see your veterinarian is warranted. However, if Bruno has any active vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or decreased appetite then he should be seen by his veterinarian.

Other causes of GI signs may include a parasite or viral infection, inflammation of the bowel and ingestion of foreign material. Hope this helps and best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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