Why Is My Dog Pooping Blood? Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and When to See a Vet

Discovering blood in your dog's stool can be startling and worrisome. While it can signal a health issue, it isn't always a cause for panic. Identifying whether the blood is bright red or dark and noting any other symptoms can help you assess the situation and provide your veterinarian with important details for an accurate diagnosis.

What Does Blood in My Dog’s Poop Mean?

Blood in your dog's stool can appear in different forms, and recognizing the type can help determine the underlying issue.

Why is my dog pooping blood? A sad Labrador lies on the floor, looking unwell

Bright Red Blood in Your Dog’s Stool

Bright red blood, also known as hematochezia, often indicates an issue in the lower digestive tract. This may be caused by:

  • Irritated intestines due to dietary changes or stress

  • Viral and Bacterial infections that affect the colon

  • Parasitic infections such as hookworms or whipworms

  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

  • Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, which can cause severe bloody diarrhea

  • Trauma or rectal injuries from foreign body ingestion or hard chew toys

If you’ve noticed blood in your pet’s stool, monitor their other symptoms, such as vomiting, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. These signs could indicate a more serious issue requiring immediate attention.

Dark, Tarry Stools

Dark, tarry poop, known as melena, suggests digested blood from the upper digestive tract, including the stomach, small intestine, or even the esophagus. Possible causes include:

  • Stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding

  • Liver cancer or other cancers affecting the digestive system

  • Foreign body ingestion leading to an abdominal obstruction

  • Rat poison toxicity or any other toxins causing internal bleeding

  • Post-surgery complications or dental disease resulting in swallowed blood

Dark, tarry poop should be evaluated by a veterinarian immediately, as it may indicate life-threatening internal bleeding.

What Should I Do if My Dog is Pooping Blood?

If you notice blood in your dog’s feces, take the following steps:

  1. Assess their overall condition – Are they eating, drinking, and behaving normally? If your dog seems unwell, weak or has severe bloody diarrhea, seek veterinary care immediately.

  2. Examine the stool – Determine whether the blood is bright red (fresh blood) or dark and tarry (digested blood).

  3. Check for other symptoms – Vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, or lack of appetite may indicate an underlying issue.

  4. Collect a stool sample – Your vet may need a stool sample to test for parasites, bacteria, or other causes.

  5. Contact your veterinarian – If your dog’s condition worsens or persists, visit the nearest emergency vet.

Why is my dog pooping blood? A concerned dog in winter gear on a walk

Sparkpaws Dog Jacket Coat

How Can I Tell If It’s Actually Blood?

Sometimes, what looks like blood in your dog’s stool might not be blood at all. Red dyes from food, treats, or medication can tint your pet’s stool. A skin test or stool examination by a vet can confirm whether it’s truly blood.

Is Blood in a Dog’s Stool an Emergency?

Mild cases of bright red blood due to dietary upset or minor irritation may resolve on their own. However, bloody diarrhea in dogs or ongoing pooping blood requires veterinary attention to prevent dehydration and further complications.

Visit the nearest emergency vet if your dog has:

  • Severe bloody diarrhea

  • Signs of blood loss, such as pale gums or weakness

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Persistent vomiting

  • Tarry poop, indicating upper digestive tract bleeding

How Do Veterinarians Diagnose Bloody Stool Causes?

To determine the underlying cause, vets use routine diagnostic procedures, which may include:

  • Physical examination and medical history review

  • Stool sample analysis for parasites or bacterial infections

  • Blood tests to check for infections, anemia, or liver issues

  • X-rays or ultrasounds to detect abdominal obstructions

  • Endoscopy or biopsy for inflammatory bowel disease or cancers

How Are Dogs with Bloody Stools Treated?

Treatment depends on the accurate diagnosis and severity of the condition. Common treatment options include:

  • Bland diet – Easily digestible food can soothe a sensitive digestive tract.

  • Fluid therapies – Helps prevent dehydration from severe diarrhea.

  • Antibiotic therapy – Prescribed if bacterial infections are present.

  • Deworming treatments – If intestinal parasites are the cause.

  • Surgical remedies – For intestinal blockages or tumors.

  • Medications – To manage inflammatory bowel disease or stomach ulcers.

Anal Sac Infections or Impactions

Dogs have small anal sacs on either side of their bum that help with scent marking. If these sacs become infected or impacted, they can cause discomfort, swelling, and even bright red blood in your dog’s stool. Signs of anal sac issues include:

  • Scooting or dragging their rear on the ground

  • Excessive licking or biting at the anus

  • Straining or yelping while pooping

  • A foul, fishy smell from the rear

If left untreated, impacted anal sacs can lead to painful abscesses. Your vet may express the sacs manually, prescribe antibiotics, or recommend dietary changes to promote healthy bowel movements.

Why is my dog pooping blood? A concerned dog in winter pajamas standing in the snow

Sparkpaws Dog Pajamas Onesies

How to Prevent Bloody Stools in Dogs

  1. Balanced Diet and Hydration: Ensure your dog consumes a well-balanced diet and has constant access to clean, fresh water to maintain a healthy digestive system.

  2. Regular Vet Check-Ups and Deworming: Routine veterinary visits and regular deworming help detect and prevent health issues, including internal parasites that can cause bloody stools.

  3. Avoid Harmful Substances and Monitor Environment: Keep toxic substances and harmful objects out of reach and closely monitor your dog's environment to prevent accidental ingestion of dangerous items.

Cleaning Up After a Dog with Bloody Stool

If your dog is experiencing bloody stool, it’s crucial to clean up properly to prevent the spread of bacteria or parasites. Use a Dog Poop Bag Holder for a hygienic and convenient way to dispose of your pet’s waste while on walks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Hookworms, and What are the Signs and Symptoms

Hookworms are intestinal parasites that attach to a dog’s intestinal lining and feed on their blood, potentially causing anemia. Symptoms include:

  • Bloody or tarry stools

  • Diarrhea

  • Weight loss

  • Lethargy

  • Pale gums

Treatment typically involves deworming medication prescribed by a veterinarian. Preventative measures include regular parasite control and keeping your dog’s environment clean.

Why Do Dogs Look at You When They Poop?

Dogs may lock eyes with their pet parents while pooping due to instincts and emotional connection. Reasons include:

  • Seeking reassurance – Pooping is a vulnerable moment; they trust you to watch their back.

  • Pack behavior – Dogs rely on their pack (you) for protection.

  • Learning from past experiences – If they’ve been praised or scolded in the past, they may watch for your reaction.

For more insights on this behavior, check out the Blog on Why Dogs Look at You When They Poop.

Final Thoughts

Blood in a dog’s poop can be alarming, but knowing what to look for and when to see a vet can make all the difference. Whether it’s bright red blood from the lower digestive tract or tarry poop indicating upper digestive tract bleeding, an accurate diagnosis is key to finding the appropriate treatment.

Your dog’s well-being is a priority, so always seek veterinary advice if you notice blood in their stool. With routine diagnostic procedures and preventative care, you can help ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy.