Do Bully Sticks Cause Diarrhea: The Dangerous Truth

do bully sticks cause diarrhea

Bully sticks, as dog treats derived from bull penis, rarely result in diarrhea in dogs when consumed moderately.

Overindulgence: If a dog consumes more than enough bully sticks or too large pieces, the high protein content can sometimes result in digestive upset and diarrhea.

Individual sensitivity: There is a possibility that some dogs are allergic or sensitive to the protein or compound inside the bully stick which could result in diarrhea or other digestive problems.

Contamination: If bully sticks are overstocked, unhygienic conditions can emerge and bacteria like Salmonella can flourish, causing diarrhea when eaten.

Obstructions: The possibility of an intestinal obstruction can occur if the dog swallows big bully sticks before they get properly chewed, and the result is vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.

To minimize the risk of diarrhea, it’s recommended to:

Be around your dog while they are eating so that you know when they are overeating.

Look for your bully sticks in reliable stores that follow the right storage and handling procedures.

Go for the bully sticks proportioned to your dog’s chewing habits.

Similarly, if you observe your dog have diarrhea after eating the bully sticks, you should stop giving them and contact your vet, especially if the diarrhea is severe or accompanied by other signs of concern.

What to Do If Your Dog Has Diarrhea

Managing dogs with diarrhea is concerning. Here, you will find the immediate steps to take and the guidelines on when to go to the vet:

Immediate Steps to Take

Assess the Severity

Pay attention to the frequency, color, and form of the diarrhea. Such kind of information can be of great help for a vet if you need the kinds of professional assistance.

Withhold Food

Initially fast for 10-20 hours to leave the digestive system of your dog an opportunity to recuperate. Make sure they are given enough water that is fresh to avoid dehydration. 

Hydration 

Try to persuade your dog to drink water. Providing an electrolyte solution for pets in your store might be an option to avoid dehydration.

Reintroduce Food Gradually 

Subsequently, introduce a bland diet. Ordinary choices can be boiled chicken without skin and bones plain white rice or canned pumpkin without pie filling. Feed small bits to begin with and then slowly increase the amount.

Monitor Your Dog 

Watch over your dog’s behavioral and physical well-being. Recording additional symptoms like vomiting, weakness, or changes in appetite.

When to See a Vet

Persistent Diarrhea

If the diarrhea goes on for more than 24-48 hours despite fasting and a bland diet, we need to contact a vet.

Additional Symptoms

When your dog is vomiting, suffering from severe lethargy, fever, red blood stools, or severe stomach pain, rush them to the nearest veterinary clinic.

 Puppies and Senior Dogs 

Pups, old dogs, or dogs with health problems are more prone to these conditions. In case they are having diarrhea, you need to consult a vet immediately.

Signs of Dehydration

Dehydration is the most significant problem. Features include withering gums, fatigue, sunken eyes, and tight skin. In case you recognize these symptoms, visit a vet immediately.

Chronic or Recurrent Diarrhea

Prolonged or recurring diarrhea in dogs can be a sign of an existing health problem that may require veterinary examination and cure.

Foreign Objects or Toxic Ingestion.

If you have the slightest suspicion that your dog has eaten foreign objects or something toxic, take him/her to a veterinary clinic at once.

Conclusion

On the other hand, though home care and monitoring are usually effective in mild cases of diarrhea in dogs, you are still required to understand when it is necessary to seek veterinary consultation to ensure your dog’s health and safety. Attention to severe or persistent signs could be the distinguishing factor in successful treatment of your pet.