Especially when they’re in heat, their hormones can go into overdrive and cause them to experience all sorts of changes – one of which is diarrhea. If your dog is experiencing bouts of diarrhea during her heat cycle.
it’s not necessarily anything to worry about, but it’s important to be aware of the phenomenon and what you can do to help your pup feel better. In this blog post, we’ll explore why do dogs have diarrhea when in heat.
What Is Diarrhea:
First, it’s important to understand what diarrhea is. Diarrhea is defined as watery, soft, or liquid stools. It can also be accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal cramping, bloating, and gas. In short, it’s not pleasant for anyone involved.
What Is Heat Cycle In Dog Breeds:
The dog heat cycle is the process that leads up to a female dog’s ovulation. It generally lasts about six weeks and occurs twice yearly.
What Factor Affected Dogs To Do Dogs Have Diarrhea When In Heat:
There are a few different factors that can contribute to diarrhea during a dog’s heat cycle. the factors include.
1. Hormonal Changes:
As we mentioned, the dog heat cycle is controlled by hormones. When a dog’s hormone levels fluctuate, it can cause all sorts of changes in their body – including diarrhea.
2. Stress:
The dog heat cycle can be a stressful time for some dogs. The changes in their hormones and body can cause them to feel anxious or stressed. This can sometimes lead to diarrhea.
3. Change in Diet:
A dog’s appetite can change during its heat cycle. They may eat more or less than usual. This can sometimes cause upset stomach and diarrhea.
4. Exercise:
Exercise can also contribute to diarrhea during a dog’s heat cycle. especially if your dog is not used to exercising regularly.
5. Environmental Changes:
Changes in temperature or humidity can also cause diarrhea. If it’s particularly hot or cold outside, or if there’s a sudden change in the weather, it could trigger an episode of diarrhea.
How To Help Your Dog If She Has Diarrhea:
If your dog is experiencing diarrhea during her heat cycle, there are a few things you can do to help. Such as
1. Offer Small Meals More Frequently:
Large meals can be hard to digest when your dog’s stomach is already upset. Try offering smaller meals more often instead.
2. Stick To A Bland Diet:
During this time, it’s best to stick to a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice. Avoid anything that could further upset your dog’s stomach.
3. Add Probiotics To Their Food:
Probiotics can help to settle an upset stomach and ease diarrhea. You can find them in powder form at most pet stores.
4. Keep Up With Their Hydration:
Diarrhea can cause dehydration, so it’s important to make sure your dog is getting enough fluids. Offer water frequently and keep an eye out for signs of dehydration, such as excessive panting or lethargy.
5. Avoid Strenuous Activity:
During a dog’s heat cycle, it’s best to avoid any strenuous activity or exercise. This can further upset their stomach and make diarrhea worse.
By following these tips, you can help your dog feel better and ease her diarrhea during her heat cycle.
Risk Associated With Dog Has Diarrhea When In Heat:
While diarrhea during a dog’s heat cycle is usually nothing to worry about, there are a few risks associated with it.
1. Dehydration:
Diarrhea can cause dehydration, especially if it’s severe or prolonged. Signs of dehydration include excessive panting, lethargy, and dry gums. If your dog is displaying any of these signs, it’s important to see a vet right away.
2. Weight Loss:
If your dog is not eating or drinking enough, it may lose weight. This can be especially dangerous for puppies who are still growing.
3. Infection:
In some rare cases, diarrhea during a dog’s heat cycle can be a sign of infection. If your dog has a fever, is vomiting, or has diarrhea that lasts for more than a few days, it’s important to see a vet.
4. Stress:
As we mentioned, the dog heat cycle can be a stressful time for some dogs. If your dog is displaying signs of stress, such as excessive panting or whining, it’s important to seek help from a professional.
5. Anal Gland Problems:
If your dog’s diarrhea is accompanied by scooting or licking their back end, it could be a sign of anal gland problems. This is something that should be checked out by a vet right away.
Conclusion:
Dogs experience diarrhea when they are in heat for a variety of reasons. Most commonly, this is due to changes in their digestive system as a result of the hormonal changes that are happening inside their bodies.
There are some things you can do to help your dog through this uncomfortable time, and most dogs will eventually recover without any long-term problems.
FAQs:
1. I’ve heard that dogs get diarrhea when they’re in heat – is this true?
Answer: Yes, it’s true that dogs can get diarrhea when they’re in heat. This is because their bodies are going through a lot of changes and they may not be able to digest their food as well.
2. Why do dogs get diarrhea when they’re in heat?
Answer: All of these extra hormones can sometimes cause digestive problems like diarrhea. Another potential reason for diarrhea during the heat is an increase in the motility of the intestine.
3. What can be done to help prevent dogs from getting diarrhea when they’re in heat?
Answer: There are a few things that can be done to help prevent dogs from getting diarrhea when they’re in heat. One is to increase the dog’s water intake. Another is to feed them a diet that is high in soluble fiber.
