Diarrhea in dogs is a common issue that can range from mild and temporary to severe and life-threatening. If your Shih Tzu is experiencing diarrhea, it’s important to understand the possible causes, how to treat it at home, when to see a vet, and how to prevent future episodes. While occasional loose stools may not be a cause for concern, persistent or severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration and other complications, requiring immediate attention.
Shih Tzus are a small breed with a sensitive digestive system, making them more prone to gastrointestinal upset. Factors such as dietary indiscretion, infections, stress, or underlying medical conditions can all contribute to diarrhea. Knowing what steps to take when your dog has diarrhea will help ensure a quick recovery and prevent further health issues.
Common Causes of Diarrhea in Shih Tzus
Several factors can cause diarrhea in dogs, ranging from minor dietary issues to serious health concerns. Identifying the root cause is the first step in determining the best treatment.
1. Dietary Indiscretion (Eating Something They Shouldn’t)
Shih Tzus are known for their curious nature, and sometimes they eat things that are not safe for them. Common dietary causes include:
- Eating spoiled food or garbage
- Sudden changes in diet or switching dog food brands too quickly
- Consuming table scraps, fatty foods, or dairy (many dogs are lactose intolerant)
- Eating toxic foods such as chocolate, onions, grapes, or artificial sweeteners like xylitol
2. Food Allergies or Intolerances
Some Shih Tzus may have food sensitivities or allergies to ingredients like chicken, beef, grains, or artificial additives. If diarrhea occurs after eating a specific food, an allergy or intolerance may be the cause.
3. Stress or Anxiety
Shih Tzus are emotional and sensitive dogs, and changes in their routine, environment, or separation from their owner can cause stress-induced diarrhea. Common stress triggers include:
- Moving to a new home
- Introduction of a new pet or family member
- Loud noises (fireworks, thunderstorms)
- Being left alone for long periods (separation anxiety)
4. Infections and Parasites
Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can cause severe diarrhea, often accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, fever, or lethargy. Common infections include:
- Parvovirus (a life-threatening viral infection, especially in unvaccinated puppies)
- Giardia (a parasite found in contaminated water)
- Salmonella or E. coli (from eating raw or spoiled food)
- Worms (hookworms, roundworms, or whipworms)
5. Medications and Vaccinations
Some medications, such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs, can disrupt gut bacteria and lead to diarrhea. Certain vaccinations may also cause mild digestive upset as a temporary side effect.
6. Underlying Medical Conditions
Chronic or recurring diarrhea may indicate an underlying health issue, such as:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by fatty foods)
- Kidney or liver disease
- Tumors or gastrointestinal disorders
Symptoms That Indicate a More Serious Problem
While mild diarrhea may resolve on its own, certain warning signs indicate that your Shih Tzu may need immediate veterinary care. Seek medical attention if your dog shows any of the following symptoms:
- Diarrhea lasting more than 24–48 hours
- Blood in the stool (red or dark, tar-like stool)
- Frequent vomiting along with diarrhea
- Severe dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy)
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Loss of appetite and extreme weakness
- Fever or noticeable weight loss
If your Shih Tzu exhibits these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately, as severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration and other life-threatening complications.
Home Remedies and Treatment for Mild Diarrhea
If your Shih Tzu has mild diarrhea but is still active, eating, and not showing other concerning symptoms, you can try some home remedies to help ease their digestive upset.
1. Fasting for 12–24 Hours
Giving your dog’s stomach a break by withholding food for 12 to 24 hours allows the digestive system to recover. However, never withhold water, as hydration is essential.
Important: Fasting should only be done for adult dogs. Puppies under six months should not fast, as they need frequent nutrition to maintain their energy levels.
2. Offer Bland Food
After fasting, introduce a bland diet to help soothe the stomach. The best bland food options include:
- Boiled chicken (without skin or seasoning) and white rice
- Plain boiled turkey or lean ground beef with rice
- Pumpkin puree (100% pure, no sugar or spices) – Helps firm up stools
- Plain boiled sweet potatoes
Feed small portions and gradually transition back to their regular food once diarrhea improves.
3. Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Diarrhea can lead to rapid dehydration, so ensure your Shih Tzu has access to fresh water at all times. If your dog is not drinking enough, try:
- Offering ice cubes to lick
- Giving unsalted chicken broth for flavor
- Using electrolyte solutions (like Pedialyte, but consult your vet first)
4. Use Probiotics to Restore Gut Health
Probiotics help balance good bacteria in the gut and speed up recovery. Options include:
- Dog-specific probiotic supplements (available at pet stores)
- Plain, unsweetened yogurt (contains natural probiotics)
5. Avoid Dairy, Fatty Foods, and Treats
Avoid milk, cheese, fatty meats, processed treats, and anything with artificial additives, as these can worsen diarrhea.
When to Take Your Shih Tzu to the Vet
If your dog’s diarrhea does not improve within 24–48 hours, or if they show severe symptoms, a vet visit is necessary. Your veterinarian may:
- Conduct stool tests to check for parasites or infections
- Perform blood tests to identify underlying conditions
- Prescribe medications such as anti-diarrheal drugs or antibiotics if needed
- Administer IV fluids if your dog is severely dehydrated
How to Prevent Diarrhea in Your Shih Tzu
Preventing diarrhea is easier than treating it. Here are some tips to keep your Shih Tzu’s digestive system healthy:
- Feed a consistent, high-quality diet – Avoid sudden food changes.
- Limit treats and avoid human food – Many human foods can upset a dog’s stomach.
- Keep garbage and harmful objects out of reach – Prevent accidental ingestion.
- Ensure clean drinking water – Avoid letting them drink from dirty sources.
- Regular deworming and vet checkups – Prevent parasites and catch health issues early.
- Minimize stress and anxiety – Provide a stable environment to prevent stress-related digestive issues.
Final Thoughts
Diarrhea in Shih Tzus can be caused by diet, infections, stress, or medical conditions. While mild cases can often be treated at home with a bland diet, hydration, and rest, persistent or severe diarrhea requires immediate veterinary attention. By understanding the causes, treatment options, and prevention strategies, you can help keep your Shih Tzu’s digestive health in check and ensure they stay happy and healthy.