Dog poop: it’s not glamorous, but it’s an important window into your dog’s health. Paying attention to what comes out the other end can help you catch potential problems early.
If you’ve noticed that your dog’s poop is black and tarry, it could be a sign of something serious. This type of stool is called “melena” and it usually means there’s bleeding in the upper part of your dog’s digestive tract. This is different from fresh, red blood (called “hematochezia”), which usually indicates a problem in the lower digestive tract.
Finding out the answer to “why is my dog’s poop black?” is important. If you see black stool, it’s crucial to take your dog to the vet right away to figure out what’s going on and get them the care they need.
What causes black dog poop?
Black, tarry stool, also known as melena, usually means there’s blood in your dog’s upper digestive tract. But it’s not always that simple. Here are some of the possible causes:
Gastrointestinal bleeding
Bleeding in the stomach or small intestine can result in melena. This may be caused by ulcers, which can be the result of a reaction to medication or possibly stress.
Tumors in the upper digestive tract can also bleed, causing melena. These tumors may bleed slowly over time, leading to chronic melena.
Dietary factors and ingested substances
It’s possible that the black color isn’t blood at all, but something your dog ingested. Foods with charcoal or blood can cause dark stool, as can certain medications. Iron supplements or bismuth subsalicylate, the active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol, are common culprits.
Parasitic infections
Hookworms and whipworms can cause gastrointestinal bleeding. These parasites attach themselves to the lining of the intestine and feed on blood. Severe infestations can lead to significant blood loss and melena.
Other medical conditions
Liver disease can affect blood clotting and lead to gastrointestinal bleeding, as can kidney disease. Coagulopathies, or blood clotting disorders, can also result in bleeding in the digestive tract.
Recognizing accompanying symptoms
Sometimes dogs with melena will act like nothing’s wrong, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a serious problem. If you notice black stool, watch out for other symptoms, such as:
- Vomiting (especially if there’s blood in it)
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Pale gums (a sign of anemia)
- Collapse
- Dehydration
The more symptoms your dog shows, and the more severe those symptoms are, the more urgent the situation. Make a note of anything else you observe, such as collapse, extreme tiredness, or vomiting, and tell your vet.
Veterinary diagnosis: What to expect
If you see black stool, or melena, it’s best to take your dog to the vet to get a diagnosis and start treatment as soon as possible. Here’s what you can expect at your vet appointment.
Physical examination and history
First, the vet will give your dog a thorough physical exam. They’ll also want to know your dog’s medical history, what your dog usually eats, and any medications or supplements your dog is taking.
Diagnostic testing
To figure out what’s causing the black stool, your vet may order some tests, including:
- Blood tests. Blood tests are crucial for checking organ function and detecting anemia. A complete blood count (CBC) can tell the vet if your dog has a normal number of red blood cells. A biochemistry profile can provide information about the health of your dog’s liver and kidneys. Coagulation tests assess your dog’s blood’s ability to clot.
- Fecal analysis. This test can help the vet determine whether your dog has a parasite.
- Urinalysis. This test can give the vet information about your dog’s kidney function.
- Imaging. The vet may use X-rays to look for foreign objects or other abnormalities. Ultrasound can be used to examine your dog’s abdominal organs.
- Endoscopy. In some cases, the vet may need to use an endoscope to see inside your dog’s upper digestive tract and take a sample for biopsy.
The importance of information
When you talk with the vet, be sure to mention any medications or supplements your dog is taking, and give the vet as many details as you can about your dog’s diet. Also, let the vet know if your dog has recently traveled or could have been exposed to toxins.
How do vets treat black dog poop?
Treatment depends on what’s causing the problem. Your vet will run tests to figure out what’s wrong and then recommend a course of action. Some common approaches include:
- Dietary changes. Your vet may suggest a special diet that’s easier to digest or that avoids certain ingredients.
- Medication. Depending on the cause, your dog may need antibiotics, anti-ulcer drugs, or medication to kill parasites.
- Fluid therapy. If your dog is dehydrated, the vet will give them fluids through an IV.
- Blood transfusions. If your dog has lost a lot of blood, they may need a transfusion.
- Surgery. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove tumors or foreign objects.
In severe cases, your vet may recommend keeping your dog at the hospital for intensive care and monitoring.
Key Takeaways
Checking your dog’s poop is an essential part of pet parenting. If you notice black, tarry stools, take a picture to show your vet and collect a fecal sample to bring to your appointment.
Good parasite control is crucial, so be sure to give your dog the parasite prevention treatments recommended by your veterinarian.
Feed your dog a balanced diet, provide access to fresh water at all times, and monitor their poop regularly. When you spot a change in their stool, contact your veterinarian right away.