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Why is my dog restless at night with diarrhea but still eating?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 1 year old | 67 lbs

My 65 lb mixed breed dog has had diarrhea for 2 days and seems to have a bit of gastric distress as she has been restless the past 2 nights during bedtime...jumping up on bed all night and not in normal sleep routine. But, she has an appetite and is not lethargic. Normal behavior outside of being restless at night. What could it be?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Ann Dion, DVM

Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 16th, 2019

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Gastric upset, or gastroenteritis, can be caused by many different things including toxins, raw meat, bones, bacterial infections, viral infections, or simply a food that doesn't agree with the body. Other possible causes include IBD, food allergies, and cancers in the gut.

If she has a bit of diarrhea and GI upset, but is otherwise normal, eating/drinking well, and has good energy, then she likely just ate something that upset her stomach.

I recommend that you feed her a bland diet of boiled/boneless/skinless chicken breast and boiled rice, in small frequent meals for the next 3 days. After this re-introduce a good quality kibble.

If the diarrhea gets bloody, she stops eating, is vomiting, or weak and lethargic, then bring her to the vet for bloodwork and x-rays.

Best of luck with Daisy! I hope she feels better soon!
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