Chronic Diarrhea in Golden Puppy

by Kathy
(Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario)

My 3 month old male pup has had diarrhea since we picked him up a month ago. He has been to the vet and had all the tests and all have come back negative. He is playful, alert and gaining weight (10lbs since we got him).
His food has changed a couple of times as the first he didn't like and wouldn't eat enough of. So we have him on Nutrience all natural (no wheat) medium breed puppy formula and he likes it and eats it but still we have the diarrhea. Imodium works for the day but as soon as he has a movement again it's back to pudding. I am at a loss to get this guy to have a normal poop. HELP Please.

Thanks.


Response from Golden Retriever Magic:

Your puppy seems to be very young and is therefore at a vulnerable stage. Diarrhea can be caused by many things (see the diarrhea page in the health section).

It could definitely be that he is not absorbing his food well and changing foods judiciously should be considered (see the dog food section).

Also, infections can be possible. I'm glad that you went to the vet. But, if the diarrhea is persisting, you should call the vet again. Many times diarrhea resolves on its own or with changes in the puppy's food, so vets may not run all the stool tests that may be needed. If your vet knows that despite your attempts the diarrhea is persisting, (s)he may order some other more unusual tests that might get to the bottom of your puppy's problem.