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Dogs, Healthcare

What Does White Dog Poop Mean?

The Paw Print

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Although it’s definitely not our favorite job as dog owners, it is an important one: doody duty. It’s true; as dog owners, we spend a lot of time dealing with poop. By now, you’ve probably become accustomed to your dog’s typical bowel movements; you know what color, shape, and size to expect. Generally speaking, there is little drama to be found in cleaning up after your pooch, that is, unless you notice something alarmingly different… such as white dog poop.

Our dogs’ excrement provides us with an invaluable window into their health, so it’s important to pay attention to any sudden changes. Luckily, white dog poop is typically not cause for concern. Your dog’s bowel movements can fall on a wide spectrum of sizes, shapes, and colors (yes, even white), and still be considered healthy. Want the full scoop? Keep reading to learn more about the causes and treatments for white dog poop.

What causes white dog poop?

If you notice your dog’s poop is white rather than the typical brown, it can certainly raise some questions. White dog poop results from a few different things.

High-calcium diets

Diet is the most common reason for a dog to have white poop, specifically diets high in calcium. This is common in pups who consume a raw food diet, as they consume whole parts of animals, including the calcium-rich bones. High calcium diets can also result in constipation. If you notice your dog struggling to have a bowel movement or going to the bathroom less, it could be a sign of constipation.

Non-food items

If your pooch has a penchant for getting into things he or she shouldn’t, that could be the cause of white stools. If eaten in a large enough quantity, items like paper (think toilet paper, facial tissue, paper towels, etc.) can lighten the color of your dog’s poop, making it appear white. Dogs often eat inappropriate items out of boredom. Check out our 5 tips for destructive pets.

What should I do if my dog’s poop is white?

If your dog is having white stools, the first thing you should do is limit their calcium. This may mean switching to a different formula or limiting the amount of bone you add if you make their food at home. You can also try adding pumpkin to their diet (1 tsp per 10 lbs of weight) to alleviate symptoms of constipation.

What if my dog has grey poop?

While white dog poop is typically nothing to be concerned about, grey stools are a different story. According to Vet Street, grey poop can be a sign of liver, gallbladder, or pancreas problems. They can range in color from grey or clay-colored to nearly white. If your dog is having grey bowel movements, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your vet.

What does healthy dog poop look like?

A healthy bowel movement for a dog should be brown, firm, and easy to pick up. Size will depend on the size of your dog and the amount he or she eats. Runny stools could be a sign that your pup is having mild upset stomach, or that he or she ate something that didn’t sit well.

If at any point your dog’s stools raise red flags, it’s a good idea to chat with your vet to rule out any potential issues. Scooping poop isn’t the most glamorous job, but it’s a great way to monitor your dog’s health.

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