How to Firm Up Dog Poop? - What You Need To Know
The only thing worse than cleaning up your dog’s soft or loose stools is the lingering concern that it could be a sign of a more serious issue.
Although dogs are happy to gobble down anything they can get their paws on, their stomachs are far from steel. A dog’s digestive system can also be very sensitive. So, while they say occasional soft stools are common among dogs, this doesn’t mean they’re not sometimes a cause for alarm.
That’s why we believe understanding your dog’s bowel movement and digestive health is the first step to solving the issue of loose stools.
So, before we delve into the proven ways to firm up your dog’s poop, let us first look into understanding what you should expect when it comes to your dog’s poop and the reasons why it isn’t firm.
From squishy to solid—here’s what you should know about your furry friend’s poop!
What Does Soft Dog Poop Look Like?
Dogs’ soft stools can vary from squishy or loose and shapeless to completely watery (diarrhea). Different types of soft stools can mean different things. So, aside from their consistency (i.e., how squishy or watery they are), you should also consider things like their color and smell.
We all know poop obviously doesn’t have a pleasant smell. But if your dog’s poop is more pungent and foul than usual, it could be a sign of a digestive issue or upset stomach.
Similarly, if your dog’s stool is yellow diarrhea, for example, it could be a sign of liver or pancreas issues or hypermotility of the intestine. The yellow stool could also be a result of feeding your dog a bland diet like rice and chicken, which is a great fix for an upset tummy, and usually not a cause for concern.
Seeing blood or mucus in your dog’s soft stool could also point to underlying conditions like Colitis, which is the inflammation of the colon.
For more insight, also read: Why is my dog pooping blood?
What Should Healthy Poop Look Like?
Ideally, a healthy dog’s stool should be smooth, soft, and slightly mushy, but with a firm sausage or log-like shape. If your dog’s poo is too hard, it could point towards constipation. On the other hand, if it is partially watery with small soft lumps or completely loose and shapeless, it could point to an upset stomach or a more serious condition.
Usually, if the loose stools are the concern and your fur baby is otherwise happy and healthy, then there is no need to be too concerned. Still, it wouldn’t hurt to consult a vet just to be sure. However, you should visit a vet clinic if the soft stools are prolonged, if you notice other symptoms like blood and mucus in the stool, or if your dog is tired, lacks appetite, or is vomiting.
Also, read “Dog throwing up white foam” for more insights on concerning symptoms related to a dog’s digestive health.
Why is Your Dog’s Poop Not Firm?
Several reasons can affect the consistency of your dog’s stool. But let’s start with the most obvious one—food. 
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Understanding the Role of Nutrition in Your Dog’s Stool Quality.
Your dog’s diet is crucial to ensuring its overall health, especially its gut health. To begin with, a well-balanced diet ensures your dog is receiving the right nutrients that not only support your dog’s digestive health but also contribute to firmer stools. That’s why the quality of dog food you use matters.
It should be high-quality dog food that meets your dog’s dietary requirements based on its age, size, breed, etc.
But it is also important to note that what your dog eats and how you feed can also be a cause of soft or loose stools. Overfeeding your dog or feeding them too frequently doesn’t give the digestive tract enough time to digest the food, and therefore may result in soft stools.
If you also suddenly change your dog’s diet, it may affect your dog’s normal bowel movements and lead to soft stools. But this could just be because your dog’s digestive system is still trying to adapt to the new diet.
Your dog could also be allergic or experience food intolerance to certain foods, like fatty foods or dairy. It depends on the individual dog, but if you notice your dog has an upset tummy or soft stools after eating a certain type of food, it’s best to stop giving it to them. They are likely unable to digest that particular food, and it may hurt your dog’s digestive system in the long run.
It’s also vital that you strictly monitor what your dog eats. Most dogs tend to chow on anything they can find, from toys and clothes to rocks and grass, or even toxic plants, foods, and chemicals.
Any of this stuff could irritate the digestive tract and induce diarrhea or soft stools. It is crucial to see a vet immediately in cases where your dog ingests something toxic or an indigestible foreign object like a rock.
Non-food Reasons why Your Dog’s Poo Is Not Firm.
Here are other not so obvious but common reasons your dog’s poo is soft or loose:
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Stress
Yes, dogs get stressed too, and for various reasons. It could be because of a strange or unfamiliar environment, loud noises, sudden changes to their routine, or anxiety issues, among others. Stress can mess with your dog’s digestive health by causing inconsistent bowel movements or even conditions like stress colitis that result in soft stools or diarrhea.
Infections
Viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections are also common causes of chronic soft stools. A few common parasites known to cause diarrhea and soft stool in dogs include roundworms, ringworms, and hookworms, among others. Your dog’s stool being soft could also be a sign of underlying conditions like Giardia and Parvovirus.
Medication side effects
If your dog’s stool has started being loose or soft while under treatment, the medication is likely affecting their digestive system. If the loose stool persists or seems to cause significant digestive discomfort, seek veterinary advice on the best way to proceed.
How to Firm Up Your Dog’s Poop.
Now that we’re clear on what soft dog poop means and why it happens, here are the best proven ways you can help firm up your dog’s stool:
Try a dog fast
Fasting is usually a great first line of defense, especially when your dog has diarrhea. It gives the stomach time to settle, allows any inflammation in your dog’s gut to subside, and takes the pressure off the digestive tract.
Fasting is especially useful in cases where you suspect the soft stool or stomach upset was caused by food. It takes away the irritant or allergen, so your dog is no longer affected. But while useful, fasting will depend on your dog’s health. It’s important to consult with a vet on whether or not your dog can fast and the best duration for the fast.
Bland diet
If fasting doesn’t work or as an additional measure, you can gradually introduce your dog to a bland diet. A bland diet basically consists of mild and simple foods like boiled chicken and rice. The bland food will be easier for your dog to digest as their stomach settles. It also prevents further irritation to your dog’s digestive tract while still providing the necessary nutrients.
But keep in mind that your dog can’t live off a bland diet forever. So, it’s best to find out from a vet the best duration and the exact type of bland foods you can add to your dog’s diet.
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Probiotics
Like us, dogs also rely on healthy bacteria in their guts to help digest food. But increased unhealthy bacteria in the gut, usually due to a lack of a balanced diet, can affect your dog’s digestion and stool consistency.
Adding probiotics to your dog’s food introduces healthy gut bacteria to promote a healthy gut microbiome, as well as enhance your dog’s immunity. However, our gut bacteria are not similar to our dogs’; therefore, do not make the mistake of giving your dog human-suited probiotics. It could only aggravate the digestive issues. Find out from a qualified dog expert the best natural and supplement probiotics tailored for dogs.
High-protein and fiber diet
A balanced diet rich in protein not only promotes your dog’s muscle health but also provides the necessary amino acids and nutrients to support healthy digestion.
Opt for lean white meat like chicken and turkey, which are more digestible compared to red meat. There are also easily digestible plant-based proteins like lentils and chickpeas that would be great, inexpensive alternatives.
As for fiber, it helps absorb the excess liquid in your digestive tract, which helps harden the stool. Gradually incorporating more fiber in your dog’s food will help regulate bowel movements and promote a firmer stool consistency.
Great sources of fiber include oats, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, carrots, and other veggies. You can also switch from wet to dry dog food, like dry kibble, which has more fiber.
But avoid giving your dog too much fiber, otherwise they’ll be dealing with constipation. You can ask your vet what the right fiber intake is for your dog. Also, use fresh vegetables and ingredients in your dog food. Avoid overly processed or canned products to ensure the best quality.
Additional Tips To Improve Your Dog’s Gut Health.
Aside from firming up your dog’s poo, here are other tips to help improve your dog’s gut health and promote healthy digestion:
Avoid fatty foods and dairy products.
Fatty food and dairy products are usually difficult for dogs to digest. They could lead to digestive issues, so it’s best to avoid them, especially if your dog is significantly intolerant.
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Avoid sudden changes to the diet.
Your dog needs time to adapt to new foods or any changes to their normal diet. So, gradually introduce any changes or new diets to give their digestive system enough time to adjust.
Keep your dog hydrated.
Water is essential for your dog’s general health, but especially when they're experiencing diarrhea. Read more on why dog hydration matters for more insight.
Conclusion
Soft poop doesn’t always have to be a major concern in dogs and firming it up is easier than you think. But always consult a vet before taking any steps, including the tips we’ve shared here. For extra support, you can also check out Spark Paws for wellness essentials your dog will love!