What To Do If You Spot Black Dog Poop

When it comes to your dog’s health, one of the simplest ways to monitor their well-being is by paying attention to their stool. While it might not be the most pleasant topic, changes in your dog’s poop color and consistency can provide valuable clues about what’s happening inside their body.
 

What Does Black Dog Poop Mean?

Black or tarry stool (known as melena) often indicates that blood has entered your dog’s digestive tract and has been digested, causing it to darken. This typically points to bleeding somewhere in the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as the stomach or small intestine.
 

Some potential causes include:
 

•          Stomach ulcers from medications like NSAIDs or steroids

•          Internal bleeding caused by trauma or ingesting foreign objects

•          Tumors or cancer within the digestive system

•          Toxin ingestion, such as rat poison or spoiled food

•          Severe infections or inflammation of the GI tract
 

Occasionally, black stool can result from your dog eating something with dark pigment - like charcoal, dirt, or certain foods - but it’s always better to rule out medical causes first.
 

What To Do If You Notice Black Poop

If your dog’s stool is black and tar-like, treat it as an urgent matter. This appearance can indicate internal bleeding or other serious health problems, so it’s important to take action right away.
 

Start by contacting your veterinarian immediately. Black stool often means there’s bleeding in the digestive tract, which can be life-threatening. Call your vet as soon as possible to discuss your dog’s symptoms and determine the next steps.
 

If possible, bring a stool sample with you to the appointment. Collect a small amount in a sealed plastic bag so your veterinarian can test it for blood, parasites, or other abnormalities. Having this sample on hand can help speed up diagnosis and treatment.

Be ready to provide your vet with background details about your dog’s recent health and behavior. Note any other symptoms, such as vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or weight loss, and mention if your dog has recently taken medications or eaten something unusual. These details can help your veterinarian pinpoint the underlying cause.
 

Finally, follow your vet’s treatment plan closely. Depending on the diagnosis, your dog may need medication, fluid therapy, dietary adjustments, or even hospitalization. Prompt and thorough care gives your pet the best chance for a full recovery.
 

When It Might Not Be an Emergency

If your dog recently ate something that could color their stool (like blueberries or charcoal), observe them closely for 24 hours. If they seem normal otherwise and their stool returns to a healthy brown, it’s likely not a cause for concern. However, if black stool persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, schedule a vet visit right away.
 

Reach Out to Our Veterinary Experts

Black dog poop is not something to ignore - it can indicate serious internal bleeding or gastrointestinal issues. While certain foods can darken stool temporarily, the safest course of action is to have your pet examined by a veterinarian to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment.
 

If you’ve noticed black stool or other unusual changes in your dog’s health, contact Connecticut Veterinary Center for prompt diagnosis and care to keep your pet healthy. Visit our office in West Hartford, Kensington, or Windsor, Connecticut. Call (860) 233-8564, (860) 229-8960, or (860) 688-2026 today.