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Lab Puppy With Some Firm and Some Soft Stools

by Heather
(Alabama)

Reader Question
My dog has very inconsistent bowel movements. He will have approximately two solid bowel movements per day and approximately two very soft bowel movements a day. He usually goes about the same times every day, but what kind of stool he has at those times will vary. What could possibly cause him to have stools like this? He is a 7-month old lab and we feed him 4health Lamb and Rice Puppy food and he eats about 4 cups per day (as per the guide on the bag) split into 3 meals per day.


Answer from Our Team

A mix of firm and soft stools is common in growing large-breed puppies. Often the first stool of the day is firmer and later ones softer. Depending on the food's calories and his size, 4 cups a day may be more than he needs, and overfeeding is a common reason for soft stools in puppies. Feeding guides on the bag are a starting point, not a rule.

Ask your vet to check his body condition and help you adjust the amount. You should be able to feel his ribs easily. Keep treats to a minimum, and ask for a stool test for parasites such as Giardia and whipworms if the soft stools continue. Call your vet sooner if the stools become watery, contain mucus or blood, or he seems unwell.

See our dog poop chart for the fecal score chart.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.

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