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Why is my puppy's urine dark after changing his dog food?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | 2 months and 14 days old | 6 lbs

hello I recently change my puppy dogfood his urine has become dark. is it from his food?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on April 30th, 2018

One of the most common reasons that urine becomes darker is if a puppy is dehydrated. If Loki is not drinking normally, that may be a concern. Food change should not cause a change in the color of the urine unless you changed from a wet food to a dry food and they are not drinking enough water to compensate for that change. Other reasons for urine color to become darker include problems with red blood cells or muscle cells. So, if Loki does not seem to be acting normal in any way, I would certainly recommend having a veterinarian examine him.
Good luck! I hope that was helpful and answered your question. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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