Compared to us, dogs seem to have stomachs of steel. They’ll gobble up stray crumbs, munch on grass and carry on as if nothing happened. But their digestive systems aren’t quite as invincible as they make them look.
One day their poo is perfectly firm – the next it’s soft dog poop out of nowhere. Changes in diet, stress or even mild tummy upsets can all play a part. The good news? Most cases of soft stools aren’t serious and can be managed with a few simple tweaks - such as using probiotics for dogs.
In this guide we’ll break down the common causes, how to firm up your dog’s stools and when it’s worth checking in with your vet. For more insights into gut health, take a look at our guide to dog digestive problems.
What should ‘healthy’ dog poo look like?
Generally speaking, the same rules apply to healthy dog poo as they do to human poo. It should be firm but not rock-solid, hold its shape and have an even consistency. A well-balanced diet and a healthy gastrointestinal tract play a big role in keeping your dog’s stools in this ideal condition.
But not all dog poo is created equal. If it’s too dry and crumbly, your dog could be dehydrated or lacking fibre. If it’s soft dog poop that loses its shape when picked up, it might indicate a minor tummy upset or a dog’s diet that’s too rich or low in fibre.
What does soft dog poo look like?
Soft stools in dogs can vary from slightly squishy to a loose, shapeless mess. It may still have some form but won’t hold its shape well. In some cases, it might appear sticky, contain mucus in dog poo or be difficult to pick up.
If your dog’s stool is soft for a couple of days but they’re otherwise well, it’s often nothing to worry about. However, persistent soft bowel movements in dogs could be a sign that something in their dog’s food isn’t agreeing with them.
Next, let’s take a closer look at the common causes of soft stools and what you can do to help.
Dog poo chart
Having trouble visualising it? No problem! Here’s our handy YuMOVE Dog Poop Chart to let you know at a glance if your dog’s digestive system is in great condition.
Reasons why your dog’s poo may be soft
There are plenty of reasons why your dog’s stool is soft. Some are harmless and temporary, while others may signal a deeper concern that needs attention.
Here’s a look at the most common causes of soft dog poop and what might be going on in your dog’s digestive system.
Your dog may be stressed
Even though a dog’s life is usually full of fun, happiness and excitement, stress can sometimes creep in. And when it does, it can take a toll on their digestive system.
Puppies, for example, may feel unsettled when they leave their litter to join a new family. Even adult dogs can experience stress from changes in routine, loud noises or unfamiliar environments.
One of the ways stress affects dogs is through their digestion, often leading to soft stools or inconsistent bowel movements. If your dog has soft stool and stress seems to be the trigger, identifying and addressing the cause should be the first step. You could also consider calming supplements for dogs to help support calm behaviour.
For more signs to look out for, check out our guide to signs of stress in dogs.
Sudden dietary changes
Suddenly changing your dog’s food can lead to soft stools and excess wind. This is often just a sign that their digestive system is adjusting to a new diet.
To help avoid tummy troubles, introduce dietary changes gradually. Try adding a little of the new food to their bowl each day while slowly reducing the old one. Over the course of a couple of days to a week, their gastrointestinal tract will have time to adapt, reducing the risk of soft dog poop or an unsettled stomach.
Your dog’s diet may not suit them
Just like us, dogs can have sensitivities to certain foods. Some may struggle to digest ingredients like chicken, beef or dairy, which can lead to soft stools or changes in their bowel movements.
If your dog’s stool is soft after eating a certain type of food, it may be worth switching to a different protein source or a bland diet for a few days to see if things improve. Some pet owners find that adding fibre-rich foods like sweet potato can help firm up your dog’s stools. If you’re unsure, your vet can offer guidance on the best diet for your dog.
How do I firm up my dog’s soft poo and support their gut health?
The first and most important step in helping firm up your dog’s stools and supporting their digestive system is to feed your dog a balanced diet that promotes healthy dog poo. Fibre-rich ingredients and high-quality nutrients can help make a difference.
Beyond this, there are a few other ways to help maintain healthy bowel movements:
- Consult your vet – If your dog has soft stools and you’re unsure why, checking in with a professional is always a good idea.
- Make dietary changes gradually – Sudden shifts in your dog’s diet can cause soft stools. Ease them into a new food by mixing it in bit by bit over a couple of days to a week.
- YuMOVE Digestive Care Probiotic & Fibre – packed with natural fibre to help support healthy anal glands and aid stool consistency, while probiotics and prebiotics help support the natural balance of the gut. Each pouch contains 12 billion CFUs of probiotic bacteria, along with prebiotics to support the natural balance of healthy bacteria in the gut.
Takeaway: When should I worry about my dog’s soft stools?
There are many reasons why your dog’s stool is soft. Some are harmless and temporary but still need attention, while others may require extra support. If your dog has soft stools for more than a couple of days or seems unwell, it’s always best to check with your vet.
Supporting good digestive health starts with a nutritious, balanced diet. For some additional support, consider adding YuMOVE Digestive Care Probiotic & Fibre. With a great combination of probiotic and prebiotic fibre, it supports the natural balance of healthy bacteria in the gut while helping maintain the natural emptying of anal glands.
