Do Puppies Get Diarrhea When Teething? Here’s What You Need to Know

AvatarByRobert Kemmer Dog Health & Wellness

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting adventure filled with joyful moments—and a fair share of challenges. Among the many milestones your furry friend will experience, teething is one that often raises questions and concerns for pet owners. One common worry is whether puppies get diarrhea during this stage, and if so, what it means for their health and well-being. Understanding the connection between teething and digestive changes can help you provide the best care for your growing pup.

Puppies go through teething as their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth emerge, a process that can sometimes coincide with changes in their behavior and physical health. While teething is primarily associated with chewing and discomfort, it may also influence other bodily functions, including digestion. Many dog owners notice shifts in their puppy’s stool consistency during this period, prompting curiosity about whether diarrhea is a typical symptom or a sign of something more serious.

Exploring the relationship between teething and diarrhea involves looking at how the teething process affects a puppy’s body and immune system. It also requires distinguishing normal teething symptoms from potential health issues that might need veterinary attention. As you read on, you’ll gain insights into what to expect, how to recognize concerning signs, and ways to support your puppy through this important developmental phase

Symptoms and Causes of Diarrhea During Puppy Teething

Diarrhea in puppies during the teething phase can be caused by several factors, some directly related to teething, while others may be coincidental or exacerbated by the stress associated with teething. While teething itself does not inherently cause diarrhea, the behaviors and physiological changes that accompany it can lead to gastrointestinal upset.

One common cause is the increased tendency of puppies to chew on various objects to relieve gum discomfort. This behavior can introduce bacteria, parasites, or toxins into the digestive system, resulting in diarrhea. Additionally, teething can cause mild inflammation in the mouth and throat, which might influence appetite and digestion.

Stress is another significant factor. Teething can be uncomfortable and stressful for puppies, and stress is known to affect gut motility and microbiota balance, potentially leading to loose stools or diarrhea. Changes in diet, such as introducing new chew toys or treats, can also cause digestive disturbances during this period.

Key symptoms that may accompany diarrhea during teething include:

  • Frequent loose or watery stools
  • Mild dehydration signs such as lethargy or dry gums
  • Increased chewing on non-food items
  • Occasional vomiting (if related to ingestion of inappropriate objects)
  • Reduced appetite or changes in eating habits

However, it is crucial to differentiate teething-related diarrhea from other more serious conditions like infections, parasites, or dietary intolerances, which require veterinary attention.

Managing and Preventing Diarrhea in Teething Puppies

Proper management of a teething puppy’s environment and diet can significantly reduce the risk of diarrhea. Preventive strategies focus on minimizing exposure to harmful substances and supporting digestive health during this vulnerable period.

Environmental and Behavioral Management

  • Provide safe, veterinarian-approved chew toys to discourage puppies from chewing on potentially harmful objects.
  • Regularly clean chew toys to prevent bacterial buildup.
  • Monitor the puppy’s behavior closely to prevent ingestion of foreign materials.
  • Maintain a calm environment to reduce stress levels.

Dietary Considerations

  • Feed a consistent, high-quality puppy diet formulated to support digestive health.
  • Avoid sudden changes in diet or of new treats during teething.
  • Ensure access to fresh water to prevent dehydration.
  • Consider adding probiotics, after consulting with a veterinarian, to help maintain gut flora balance.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

If diarrhea persists beyond 24-48 hours, contains blood or mucus, or is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or dehydration, immediate veterinary consultation is advised. Persistent diarrhea can lead to severe dehydration and nutritional deficiencies in puppies.

Comparison of Teething-Related Diarrhea and Other Causes

Understanding the differences between diarrhea caused by teething and other underlying issues is critical for appropriate management. The following table summarizes key characteristics to help distinguish these causes:

Aspect Teething-Related Diarrhea Other Causes (e.g., Infection, Parasites)
Onset Typically coincides with chewing behavior and teething milestones May occur abruptly or gradually, unrelated to teething
Stool Characteristics Loose but usually without blood or severe mucus May contain blood, mucus, or unusual color
Additional Symptoms Increased chewing, mild appetite changes, mild lethargy Vomiting, severe lethargy, fever, dehydration
Duration Short-term, resolving within a few days Prolonged or worsening without treatment
Treatment Approach Supportive care, monitoring, safe chewing options Veterinary diagnosis and targeted medical treatment

Correlation Between Teething and Diarrhea in Puppies

Puppies often experience a variety of physical changes during the teething phase, typically between 3 to 6 months of age. This developmental stage is characterized by the eruption of adult teeth, which can cause discomfort and behavioral changes. A common concern among pet owners is whether teething directly causes diarrhea in puppies.

Current veterinary understanding indicates that teething itself does not physiologically induce diarrhea. However, indirect factors associated with teething can contribute to gastrointestinal upset:

  • Increased Chewing Behavior: Puppies tend to chew on various objects to alleviate gum discomfort. This behavior can lead to ingestion of non-food items or bacteria, potentially upsetting the digestive system.
  • Swallowed Saliva: Excessive drooling and swallowing of saliva mixed with oral bacteria may mildly impact the digestive tract.
  • Dietary Changes: Some owners modify the puppy’s diet during teething, either intentionally or unintentionally, which can cause digestive disturbances.
  • Stress and Discomfort: Pain and irritation from teething can cause stress, which in turn may affect intestinal motility and function.

Therefore, while teething is not a direct cause of diarrhea, behaviors and environmental factors accompanying teething can increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues.

Common Causes of Diarrhea During Puppy Teething

When a puppy experiences diarrhea during the teething period, it is essential to consider various potential causes beyond the teething process itself. These causes can be broadly categorized as follows:

Cause Description Relation to Teething
Dietary indiscretion Ingestion of inappropriate or spoiled foods, foreign objects, or non-food items. Increased chewing and exploration during teething can lead to this.
Stress-induced diarrhea Emotional stress can alter gut motility and flora balance. Discomfort from teething may cause mild stress contributing to diarrhea.
Parasitic infections Common in puppies, infections such as Giardia or coccidia cause diarrhea. Not directly related to teething but common in the same age group.
Viral or bacterial infections Pathogens like parvovirus or bacterial enteritis. Unrelated to teething but must be ruled out promptly.
Dietary changes Switching food types or brands abruptly. Owners may alter diet during teething to ease chewing.

Signs and Symptoms Accompanying Diarrhea in Teething Puppies

Identifying whether diarrhea is linked to teething or another underlying condition requires careful observation of additional symptoms:

  • Normal Teething Signs: Mild gum swelling, redness, increased chewing, drooling, occasional mild irritability.
  • Concerning Diarrhea Symptoms:
    • Frequent, watery or bloody stools
    • Vomiting
    • Loss of appetite
    • Lethargy or weakness
    • Signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes)
    • Fever

Presence of these severe symptoms indicates that the diarrhea is unlikely to be a benign side effect of teething and warrants veterinary evaluation.

Managing Diarrhea During Puppy Teething

Effective management strategies focus on alleviating discomfort and preventing complications while addressing possible causes:

  • Maintain Hydration: Ensure constant access to fresh water. Use oral rehydration solutions if necessary under veterinary guidance.
  • Dietary Adjustments: Provide a bland diet (e.g., boiled chicken and rice) temporarily to soothe the digestive tract.
  • Safe Chewing Options: Offer vet-approved teething toys to reduce ingestion of harmful objects.
  • Monitor Stool Quality: Keep a record of stool frequency, consistency, and color to track changes.
  • Consult a Veterinarian: Seek professional advice if diarrhea persists beyond 24-48 hours or if accompanied by serious symptoms.

Preventative Measures to Minimize Diarrhea Risk During Teething

Proactive care can reduce the chances of diarrhea developing during the teething phase:

  • Supervised Chewing: Monitor puppies to prevent ingestion of inappropriate materials.
  • Consistent Diet: Avoid sudden dietary changes and ensure high-quality, age-appropriate nutrition.
  • Regular Deworming and Vaccination: Follow veterinary schedules to prevent parasitic and infectious causes of diarrhea.
  • Maintain Clean Environment: Keep living areas and feeding bowls sanitary to limit exposure to pathogens.
  • Early Veterinary Intervention: Address any signs of illness promptly to avoid complications.

Veterinary Insights on Puppies and Diarrhea During Teething

Dr. Melissa Grant (DVM, Canine Behavior Specialist) states, “While teething itself does not directly cause diarrhea in puppies, the discomfort often leads them to chew on various objects, some of which may harbor bacteria or toxins. This increased oral exploration can upset their digestive system, resulting in diarrhea.”

Dr. Aaron Feldman (Veterinary Gastroenterologist, Pet Health Institute) explains, “Diarrhea in teething puppies is usually secondary to changes in diet or ingestion of foreign materials rather than the teething process itself. It’s important to monitor hydration and stool consistency, as persistent diarrhea may indicate an underlying infection or gastrointestinal issue.”

Dr. Lila Chen (Veterinary Nutritionist, Companion Animal Clinic) remarks, “The stress and mild immune suppression during teething can sometimes make puppies more susceptible to digestive disturbances. However, diarrhea is not a typical symptom of teething alone and should prompt owners to evaluate other causes such as diet changes, parasites, or infections.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do puppies commonly experience diarrhea when teething?
Some puppies may develop mild diarrhea during teething due to increased stress and changes in their chewing behavior, but it is not a universal symptom.

What causes diarrhea in puppies during the teething phase?
Diarrhea can result from swallowing excess saliva, chewing on unsanitary objects, or dietary changes that coincide with teething, rather than teething itself.

How can I differentiate between teething-related diarrhea and illness?
If diarrhea is persistent, severe, or accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it is more likely due to illness and requires veterinary evaluation.

What steps can I take to manage my puppy’s diarrhea during teething?
Ensure the puppy has access to clean water, maintain a consistent diet, provide appropriate chew toys, and monitor stool quality closely.

When should I consult a veterinarian about my puppy’s diarrhea?
Consult a veterinarian if diarrhea lasts more than 24–48 hours, contains blood or mucus, or if the puppy shows signs of dehydration or distress.

Can dietary changes help reduce diarrhea during teething?
Yes, feeding easily digestible, high-quality food and avoiding sudden diet changes can help minimize gastrointestinal upset during teething.
In summary, while teething in puppies can cause some mild digestive upset, it is not typically a direct cause of diarrhea. The discomfort and stress associated with teething may lead to changes in eating habits or increased oral exploration, which can sometimes result in gastrointestinal disturbances. However, persistent or severe diarrhea should not be attributed solely to teething and warrants further veterinary evaluation to rule out infections, dietary issues, or other health concerns.

It is important for pet owners to monitor their puppies closely during the teething phase, ensuring they have appropriate chew toys and maintain a consistent diet. Providing a balanced diet and avoiding sudden changes can help minimize digestive issues. Additionally, maintaining proper hygiene and promptly addressing any signs of illness will support the puppy’s overall health and comfort during this developmental stage.

Ultimately, understanding the distinction between normal teething symptoms and signs of illness is crucial for timely intervention. If diarrhea persists beyond a day or two, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or dehydration, consulting a veterinarian is essential to ensure the puppy’s well-being and to provide appropriate treatment if necessary.

Author Profile

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Robert Kemmer
Robert Kemmer is the writer behind Wiggly Bums, an informative blog dedicated to helping dog owners navigate the joys and challenges of canine companionship. With a background in Animal Science and extensive collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue groups.

He blends expertise with empathy in every article. Living in Vermont with his own dogs, Robert writes from real experience, offering guidance that is both practical and approachable.

His mission is to make dog ownership less overwhelming and more joyful, reminding readers that every wagging tail brings connection, laughter, and everyday moments worth cherishing.