Digestive upset in puppies

puppies

 

Bellyache

Did you know that digestive upset is common in puppies?  Mouthy behaviour and an immune system that is still developing all put a puppy at increased risk of an upset tummy.  In addition, rapid dietary change and the stress associated with moving to a new home, plus other causes such as infectious agents, can lead to loose faeces, diarrhoea or vomiting. 

Avoid milk

Once puppies are weaned from their mother, they no longer require milk as part of their diet.  The feeding of cow’s milk to puppies can lead to digestive upset, and should be avoided.  Lactose-free pet milk is an option, but a complete and balanced puppy diet will supply all the essential nutrition your puppy needs. 

dogs

How can I avoid my puppy getting an upset tummy?

  • Ensure that your puppy's vaccinations and worming treatments are up to date
  • Don't let your puppy drink from puddles when out on walks  
  • Avoid access to food scraps and garbage
  • Offer small, frequent meals
  • Make any diet changes gradual, over a period of 7 days.  Add a small proportion of the new diet to the puppy’s regular diet on the first day.  The proportion of the new diet should be gradually increased each day, so that it makes up half of the puppy’s food on day 4 and the whole meal by day 7.

When to call the Vet

If your puppy is experiencing diarrhoea, vomiting or lethargy be sure to take them for a check-up at the Vet.  Dehydration can occur quickly in youngsters.  Signs of dehydration include dry skin that lacks elasticity such as neck skin that stays tented when gently pinched, lethargy, increased heart rate, high fever and a dry mouth.

By feeding a high quality, highly digestible puppy food you will reduce the chance of an upset tummy in your puppy.