Mushy Stools and Diet

Question:

I have a Boxer, 2 years old, adopted 4 months ago. He has formed stools but they fall apart to mush when I try to pick it up with poop bag.  I've tried two weeks on Gastriplex with no change. I've also tried adding carrots to his dog food with no change. (He eats dried dog food only -lamb and rice variety -- Kirkland brand).  Should I just accept it as normal for him?  He is healthy and well otherwise, gets a run in the morning and a walk in the evening.

Response:

Hello Sophia,
Thank you for your inquiry to Holistic Pet Info. Your boxer’s stool should be solid and firm and it’s not normal to be “mushy.” To start with, I would highly recommend considering changing his dog food. He may very well have a food allergy, which is more common than most realize. Chicken, beef, rice, corn and wheat are often very allergenic to dogs and cats.

There are many well-balanced high quality dog foods that have alternative proteins and carbohydrates including salmon or rabbit and barley or potato. These ingredients often will help the GI equilibrium due to the higher nutritional bioavailability.   

I would continue the Gastriplex or start Digestive Support by Pet Alive or Dipan-9 by Thorne while changing the food to decrease the possiblility of GI upset. You may also add some fiber to the diet such as pumpkin. Best of luck.

Sincerely,
Colleen Smith DVM, CVA