4-5 week puppy has diarrhea

by Krissy
(Deerfield, OH, USA)

I got a puppy 2 days ago. He is a St. Bernard and shepherd mix. His first poop was a little solid, however all day yesterday they have been more runny, not pure liquid, but runny. It does seem to have a mucus in it at times now.

When I got to his crate he had went in it and it was more mucusy (?) with almost a pink tint. He has seemed to be eating somewhat, not a lot, but attempting. Should I be giving him milk at all? I did give him milk yesterday morning because it seemed he wasn't eating much food, just licking it. drinking ok.

We also got a brother so he would not be lonely. He is pooping solid. I've been reading other questions, and just not sure whether it could be the relocating, and stress or if it's something more serious and I need to get him to a vet. I am just worried and want to take care of him.
Thank you!


Hi Krissy
It's a difficult call for me to make from here, in terms of being able to advise people as to whether or not the diarrhea etc. is something that needs attention right away or not. Especially when the puppy has just come home with them.

Generally the stress of leaving his mom and siblings, and probably a change of diet as well, results in diarrhea to some degree. Loss of appetite and sleeping a lot are also common for the first few days or so.

Mucus or blood streaks in the feces indicate irritation of the colon (colitis) and this can be due to stress, bacteria, a virus or just a bad bout of diarrhea itself can cause this kind of irritation and lead to a chronic problem.

If your puppy has periods of playful activity, and seems generally happy at these times, if he can eat and drink and keep it down, and if the diarrhea is not continually worsening you can probably afford to wait 24 hours or so to see if it settles down.

BUT, if your puppy seems absolutely exhausted, has no interest in anything or anyone, won't play, can't keep down food or water and is suffering from constant diarrhea he needs to see a vet right away. You can read about the diagnosis and symptoms of most of the most common diseases on my Dog Illnesses page and about Parvo too. The best advice is - if in doubt, seek veterinary help, it could make all the difference.

Don't give him milk though, that will almost certainly lead to diarrhea and make the problem worse. Dogs don't tolerate milk well at all. Special puppy formula is okay, but isn't necessary at your pups age.

I hope this helps some and wish you the best of luck with both your puppies!