Diarrhea is one of the most common problems beagle owners face. The two most common causes of diarrhea in dogs are eating junk and parasites. Also many infectious diseases, like parvo, can also cause diarrhea as well.
Causes of Diarrhea in Dogs
In dogs, it takes about 8 hours for food to pass through the small intestine. During food’s transit through the gastrointestinal tract, 80% of the water should be removed from it forming a nice firm stool. If food travels through the gut too fast, not enough water can be removed before it hits the colon and you get diarrhea. This is how most diarrhea cases develop in dogs.
Eating Junk
This is one of the prime culprits of diarrhea in dogs. Dogs seem to eat almost anything, junk, dead animals, strange substances, which all can contribute to diarrhea.
Food Intolerance
Another cause of diarrhea in beagles is food intolerance. Food intolerance is another major source of diarrhea.
Intestinal Parasites
These are a leading cause of diarrhea in dogs. Parasites like roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, threadworms, and giardia all cause diarrhea.
Medications
Medications can also cause diarrhea. Antibiotics, aspirin, and some dewormers can cause diarrhea.
Stress
Stress is also a big cause of diarrhea. Excitement or a strange environment like a vet clinic or a dog show can bring on diarrhea.
Chronic or Acute Diarrhea
Most cases of diarrhea are acute (short) versus chronic (persistent diarrhea). In cases where diarrhea persists over a long time make sure you see your veterinarian.
Diarrhea Treatment
The first step is to withhold food for 24 hours, but still allow them to drink clean fresh water. Almost all cases of acute diarrhea will resolve quickly this way. When you start your beagle back on food, try giving some bland boiled rice and cooked hamburger. Anything easy to get them off to their first meal back.
Other treatments that could be tried include:
- Pepto-Bismol: 0.5 to 1.5ml per pound orally (every 12 hours) Get on Amazon
- Kaopectate: 1 to 2 teaspoons per 10 pounds (every 4 hours) Get on Amazon
Wrapping Up
Almost all cases of diarrhea in dogs resolved quickly. In cases of persistent diarrhea see your veterinarian. Remember beagle puppies can become dehydrated quickly when they have diarrhea.
