Let’s be honest most dog owners in the UK have dealt with soft stools at some point. Whether it’s occasional mess or ongoing dog diarrhoea, sloppy poos are often dismissed as “just one of those things.”
But if your dog regularly has loose stools, it’s usually a sign something isn’t quite right in their digestive system.
The good news? In most cases, it’s fixable.
What Healthy Dog Poo Should Look Like
Your dog’s poo is one of the clearest indicators of their gut health—and understanding what’s normal (and what isn’t) is the first step towards firmer, healthier stools.
So what does "normal" look like?
- Firm but not hard
- Easy to pick up
- Well-formed (log shaped)
- Chocolate brown in colour
- Passing regularly without straining
If you dog's stools are consistently soft, loose or unpredictable, it's a sign their digestive system may be out of balance.
Natural Support for Dog Diarrhoea & Gut Health
For many dogs, targeted digestive support can make a significant difference—especially alongside diet and routine improvements.
Firmapoo - Fast Relief for Loose Stools
Designed for sudden diarrhoea or sloppy poos, Firmapoo helps:
- Firm stools quickly
- Support hydration
- Restore gut balance
Ideal for:
- Sudden tummy upsets
- Stress-related diarrhoea
- Diet changes
Gut Balance - Long-Term Digestive Support
For dogs with recurring loose stools or sensitive stomachs, Gut Balance works at a deeper level to:
- Support the gut microbiome
- Improve nutrient absorption
- Strengthen the gut lining
Ideal for:
- Chronic soft stools
- Post-antibiotic recovery
- Sensitive digestive systems
Why Does My Dog Have Loose Stools?
There isn’t just one cause of dog diarrhoea. Most cases come are usually a sign that your dog’s digestion might need some extra support.
Here are some of the most common underlying reasons:
Gut Imbalance
Your dog’s gut contains trillions of bacteria. When this balance is disrupted, digestion suffers. Common triggers include:
- Antibiotics
- Sudden diet changes
- Stress
- Low-quality or unsuitable food
Signs often include loose stools, gas, and food sensitivity.
Diet Issues
Not all dog foods suit every dog. While true food allergies are rare, intolerances are common.
Even a good-quality food can cause issues if:
- It doesn’t match your dog’s needs
- It’s changed too quickly
- It contains ingredients your dog struggles to digest
It is recommended to always transition foods gradually over 7–10 days.
Poor Absorption
Sometimes the issue isn’t what your dog eats—but what they absorb. If the gut lining is inflamed or damaged, this can lead to:
- Loose stools
- Larger poo volume
- Weight loss despite good appetite
Conditions like Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) or chronic gut inflammation may be involved.
Parasites
Worms, giardia, and other pathogens are a common cause of ongoing diarrhoea.
Regular worming and good hygiene are essential—especially for dogs with adventurous eating habits!
Stress and the Gut-Brain Axis
Dogs are more emotionally sensitive than we often realise. Changes like:
- Moving house
- Kennel stays
- New pets or babies
- Travel or routine disruption
…can all trigger digestive upset. This is because the gut and brain are closely connected (often referred to as the gut-brain axis), meaning emotional stress can quickly show up as loose stools or digestive sensitivity.
Supporting your dog during stressful periods can make a real difference. In addition to maintaining routine and reassurance, targeted calming support such as Calm & Settle can help reduce stress-related digestive upset by promoting a more relaxed nervous system.
Why Soft Stools in Dogs Shouldn’t Be Ignored
It might seem minor, but chronic loose stools can affect your dog’s overall health.
Nutritional Impact
If digestion isn’t working properly, your dog isn’t getting full value from their food.
Immune System Health
Around 70% of the immune system is linked to the gut.
Long-Term Gut Issues
Small imbalances can develop into chronic digestive problems over time.
Quality of Life
Messy clean-ups, frequent toileting, and ongoing worry take a toll for both of you.
How to Firm Up Your Dog’s Poop
The good news is that in most cases of soft stools can improve with the right approach
Step 1 - Review the Diet
- Check portion sizes and recommended feeding rates
- Reduce treats and access to human food
- Identify potential triggers and exclude them where possible
Step 2 - Feed Consistently
- Stick to regular mealtimes
- Avoid sudden changes
- Keep any treats consistent
Dogs thrive on routine and so does their gut.
Step 3 - Rule Out Underlying Issues
If diarrhoea persists beyond 48 hours or gets any worse speak with your vet as soon as possible as they may recommend:
- Feacal testing
- Blood tests
- Diet trials
Final Thoughts
Sloppy poos might be common, but they’re not something you should have to put up with.
They’re your dog’s way of telling you something isn’t quite right.
By supporting gut health, feeding consistently, and using targeted digestive support, you can help your dog feel better from the inside out.
And when their digestion improves, you’ll often see the difference everywhere, from energy levels to mood to those everyday moments you love most.
Because when your dog feels good, life gets lived properly.
As Dog As A Dog Can Be.
