My dog has diarrhea, straining, ate paper towels. Should I worry?
HI, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Lacey!
If she is eating and not vomiting and is passing stool (despite the straining and it being loose) then I wouldn't be too concerned. Hopefully she is just dealing with diarrhea.
The diarrhea can be from stress of moving, ate something gross that is upsetting her tummy, a virus or bacterial infection, parasites, the paper towels could be causing a blockage, pancreatitis, toxin ingestion, food allergy/ sensitivity.
Since she is waking up overnight I would fast her for 12-24 hours to rest the intestinal tract then restart feeding as a bland diet of boiled chicken or hamburger with rice. Feed 1 cup per 20 lbs per day until 2 days of normal stools.
If the stool hasn't improved in 2-3 days, she stops eating, starts vomiting or becomes lethargic I would have her examined by a Vet.
I hope this helps and I wish Lacey a speedy recovery!
Updated on September 23rd, 2025