9 Causes of Pug Diarrhea and Vomiting [Useful Tips]

Let’s talk about pug diarrhea and vomiting! We know that our furry friends can sometimes experience tummy troubles, and it’s not always pleasant to deal with.

If you’re a pug owner, you might have noticed that your pup is more prone to diarrhea and vomiting than other breeds. Don’t worry, you’re not alone, and we’re here to help!

In this blog post, we’ll talk about the common causes of pug diarrhea and vomiting, as well as the best ways to manage it and get your pup feeling better in no time. So, let’s dive in!

Recognizing the symptoms of pug diarrhea and vomiting

Identifying the symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting in pugs is crucial for timely intervention.

Some common signs include:

1. Loose stools or watery diarrhea
2. Frequent vomiting or retching
3. Loss of appetite
4. Lethargy or weakness
5. Abdominal discomfort or pain
6. Dehydration

Learn more about common pug stomach problems.

Causes of Pug Diarrhea and Vomiting

The following are some of the most common causes of pug diarrhea and vomiting:

1. Dietary Indiscretion

Imagine this: When your Pug’s perceptive eyes spot something intriguing on the floor, they quickly eat it. This might include trash, plants, or even table scraps or spoiled food.

The most common cause of vomiting and diarrhea in Pugs is dietary indiscretion, also referred to as “garbage gut.”

Their delicate stomachs may become upset, and a mess may result. Never forget to keep a close eye on anything your Pug gets their paws on!

2. Sudden Diet Change

Like many other dogs, pugs thrive on routine. Their digestive system can suffer greatly from a sudden diet change, resulting in vomiting and diarrhea.

If you choose to switch your Pug’s diet, be sure to do so gradually by combining the new and old foods over the course of several days.

This lessens the likelihood of stomach issues by allowing their stomach to adjust.

3. Food Allergies or Sensitivities

Like humans, pugs can become allergic to or sensitive to specific food ingredients. Dairy, poultry, beef, and grains are frequent offenders.

It might be worthwhile to investigate a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet if your Pug frequently experiences vomiting or diarrhea. To decide the best course of action, speak with your veterinarian.

4. Gastrointestinal Infections

Your Pug may experience digestive distress if bacterial or viral infections enter the digestive tract.

Fever, sluggishness, and appetite loss are additional symptoms that are frequently present with these infections.

You must seek veterinary care if you suspect an infection. They can make an accurate diagnosis, recommend the proper medications to treat the infection, and lessen your Pug’s suffering.

Learn more about pug shaking.

5. Intestinal parasites

Roundworms, hookworms, and giardia are common intestinal parasites in dogs, including Pugs.

There may be weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea due to these pests. To keep your Pug parasite-free, regular deworming, and preventative measures are imperative.

For the proper deworming regimen and medications, consult your veterinarian.

Learn more about dog deworming and diarrhea.

6. Stress and Anxiety

Due to their sensitive nature, pugs can become stressed and anxious when their routine or environment changes.

Like us, they too can experience diarrhea and vomiting when these emotions have an impact on their digestive system.

It might be a good idea to give your Pug extra love, comfort, and stability during these transitional times if you recently moved, had visitors, or got a new pet.

7. Pancreatic Issues

Due to its ability to produce enzymes and insulin, the pancreas is essential for digestion.

Pugs occasionally experience pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas that can result in excruciating stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Veterinary treatment for pancreatitis is frequently necessary and may involve medication, dietary adjustments, and occasionally hospitalization.

Learn more about why your pug is not eating.

8. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Chronic IBD causes inflammation in the lining of the digestive tract. IBD in pugs can cause weight loss, decreased appetite, and sporadic vomiting and diarrhea.

A veterinarian can identify IBD and suggest a personalized treatment regimen that might involve dietary changes and medication.

9. Medications and Toxins

Certain medications, human foods, plants, or household chemicals can be toxic to Pugs.

Ingestion of these substances can lead to diarrhea and vomiting, among other symptoms.

It’s crucial to keep medications and hazardous substances out of your Pug’s reach and to be mindful of what you expose them to.

Learn more about identifying a sick pug.

When to consult a veterinarian over Pug diarrhea and vomiting

While mild cases of diarrhea and vomiting may resolve on their own with home care, there are instances when it is essential to consult a veterinarian.

Seek veterinary care if:

1. The symptoms persist for more than 24–48 hours.
2. Blood is present in the vomit or stool.
3. Your pug appears extremely lethargic or weak.
4. There is a sudden change in behavior.
5. Your pug refuses to drink water or shows signs of dehydration.

Learn more about why your dog is not drinking water.

Diagnosis of pug diarrhea and vomiting

The diagnosis of pug diarrhea and vomiting typically involves:

A. Veterinary examination and medical history review

The first step in diagnosing pug diarrhea and vomiting is to conduct a thorough veterinary examination and review the animal’s medical history. The veterinarian will perform a physical examination of the pug to check for signs of dehydration, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and other symptoms. The veterinarian may also ask about the dog’s diet, exposure to toxins or infectious agents, and any recent changes in behavior.

B. Diagnostic tests

If the veterinary examination and medical history review do not provide a definitive diagnosis, additional diagnostic tests may be necessary. The following are the most commonly used diagnostic tests for pug diarrhea and vomiting:

1. Fecal examination: This involves analyzing the contents of the dog’s feces to look for signs of infection, parasites, or other abnormalities.
2. Blood tests: A complete blood count (CBC) and serum biochemistry profile can provide important information about organ function and check for signs of anemia, dehydration, and infection.
3. Imaging studies (X-rays, ultrasound): These tests can help identify abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract, such as blockages or foreign bodies, as well as identify abnormalities in other organs that may be contributing to diarrhea and vomiting.
4. Endoscopy or biopsy (if necessary): These tests may be necessary to obtain a more detailed view of the gastrointestinal tract and to collect tissue samples for further analysis.

Treatment and management of pug diarrhea and vomiting

Here is an overview of the treatment and management options for pug diarrhea and vomiting.

Addressing Dietary Factors

1. Gradual transitions in food changes – If you plan to change your pug’s diet, it is important to do so gradually. Sudden changes in food can cause digestive upset and worsen diarrhea and vomiting.

2. High-quality and easily digestible diets – Pugs are known to have sensitive stomachs, so it is important to feed them high-quality and easily digestible diets. Look for food that is made from natural ingredients and does not contain fillers, additives, or artificial preservatives.

Medications and Therapies

1. Anti-diarrheal medications – Anti-diarrheal medications can be used to treat diarrhea in pugs. These medications work by slowing down the movement of the digestive system, allowing the body to absorb more water and nutrients.

2. Probiotics and prebiotics – Probiotics and prebiotics can help to restore the balance of bacteria in the digestive system, which can be disrupted by diarrhea or vomiting. These supplements can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall digestive health.

3. Fluid therapy to prevent dehydration – Diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, so it is important to provide your pug with enough fluids. Offer water frequently, and consider using electrolyte solutions or other fluids recommended by your vet.

Treating Underlying Medical Conditions

1. Antibiotics for bacterial infections – If your pug has diarrhea or vomiting caused by a bacterial infection, your vet may prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection.

2. Anti-parasitic medications – If your pug has diarrhea or vomiting caused by parasites such as worms, your vet may prescribe anti-parasitic medications to help eliminate the parasites.

3. Management of gastrointestinal disorders – If your pug has a gastrointestinal disorder such as inflammatory bowel disease, your vet may recommend a range of treatments including dietary changes, medication, and supplements to manage the condition.

Learn more about caring for your pug.

Home Care for Pugs with Diarrhea and Vomiting

When dealing with mild cases of diarrhea and vomiting in pugs, home care can be effective.

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Temporary fasting: Withhold food for 12–24 hours to allow the gastrointestinal tract to rest.
2. Offer small, frequent meals: After the fasting period, introduce easily digestible food such as boiled chicken and rice in small portions.
3. Probiotics: Consult your veterinarian about giving probiotics to support your pug’s gut health.
4. Hydration: Ensure your pug has access to fresh water at all times to prevent dehydration.
5. Avoid feeding human food: Steer clear of giving table scraps or foods that may upset your pug’s stomach.
6. Monitor bowel movements: Keep an eye on your pug’s stool consistency and frequency, noting any improvements or worsening.

Preventing pug diarrhea and vomiting

Although not all cases of diarrhea and vomiting can be prevented, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk. These include:

1. Gradual diet changes: Avoid sudden dietary transitions and introduce new food gradually.
2. Proper food storage: Ensure dog food is stored correctly to prevent spoilage.
3. Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene by regularly cleaning food and water bowls, as well as your pug’s living area.
4. Parasite prevention: Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for regular parasite prevention treatments.
5. Stress management: Minimize stress and provide a calm environment for your pug.

Learn more about keeping your dog healthy.

What to feed a pug with diarrhea

If your pug has diarrhea, it is important to feed them bland, easily digestible foods that can help stabilize their stools.

Here are some foods and supplements that can help:

Plain Rice: Rice is easy for dogs to digest and can help stabilize their stools. Use white rice and make sure it’s plain.

Boiled and Mashed Carrots: Carrots are high in dietary fiber, which can help bulk out your dog’s fecal matter. Boil and mash them before feeding them to your pug.

Pumpkin Purée: Pumpkin is rich in fiber and can help firm up stools. Make sure to use 100% organic pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling.

Prebiotic Supplements: Prebiotic supplements can help promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in your pug’s gut, which can aid in digestion and reduce diarrhea. Slippery elm, chia seeds, and plantains are all forms of prebiotics that can be given to your pug.

Boiled Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Meat: Chicken is a good source of protein and can be easily digested by dogs. Make sure to remove any bones and skin before feeding your pug.

It is important to note that you should always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pug’s diet, especially if they are experiencing diarrhea.

Learn more about pug health concerns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it’s crucial to understand that diarrhea and vomiting are common issues that could happen to any pug.

As a pug parent, it’s essential to keep an eye on your furry friend’s diet, hydration, and overall well-being. If you notice any unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian for professional guidance.

Remember, taking care of your pug’s health is a significant part of being a responsible and loving pet owner.