Can Puppies Get Diarrhea When Teething? Exploring the Connection

AvatarByWilliam Warren Dog Health & Wellness

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting adventure filled with joyful milestones—and a few unexpected challenges. One common concern many new puppy owners face is digestive upset, particularly diarrhea, during the teething phase. As your furry friend navigates this crucial stage of growth, you might notice changes in their bathroom habits that leave you wondering: can puppies get diarrhea when teething?

Teething is a natural process where puppies’ baby teeth fall out and adult teeth emerge, often accompanied by increased chewing and some discomfort. While this phase can bring about behavioral changes, it may also coincide with digestive disturbances. Understanding whether diarrhea is a typical part of teething or a sign of something more serious is essential for ensuring your puppy’s health and comfort.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the relationship between teething and digestive health, helping you identify what’s normal and when to seek veterinary advice. By gaining insight into this common puppy experience, you’ll be better equipped to support your pup through their teething journey with confidence and care.

Understanding the Causes of Diarrhea During Teething

When puppies are teething, their gums become sore and inflamed, prompting them to chew on various objects to alleviate discomfort. This increased mouthing behavior can inadvertently expose them to bacteria or foreign substances, which may upset their digestive system. It is important to recognize that while teething itself does not directly cause diarrhea, the behaviors and physiological changes associated with this phase can contribute to digestive upset.

Several factors can lead to diarrhea during the teething period:

  • Increased oral exploration: Puppies often chew on anything within reach, including dirt, plants, or contaminated items, increasing the risk of ingesting harmful bacteria or toxins.
  • Swallowing excess saliva: Teething stimulates saliva production, and swallowing large amounts can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation.
  • Dietary changes: Owners may introduce new toys or treats to soothe teething pain, which can cause dietary indiscretions or sensitivities.
  • Stress and immune response: The discomfort from teething can cause mild stress, potentially impacting gut motility and flora balance.

It is also critical to consider other common causes of diarrhea in puppies that may coincide with teething, such as parasites, infections, or dietary indiscretion, which should be ruled out by a veterinarian.

Symptoms to Monitor During Teething-Related Diarrhea

Not all diarrhea during the teething stage is a cause for immediate concern. However, certain symptoms warrant closer attention and possibly veterinary intervention:

  • Frequency and consistency: Frequent loose or watery stools lasting more than 24-48 hours.
  • Presence of blood or mucus: This may indicate intestinal irritation or infection.
  • Lethargy or weakness: Signs that the puppy may be dehydrated or systemically ill.
  • Vomiting: Accompanying vomiting can exacerbate dehydration and indicate a more serious issue.
  • Loss of appetite: Decreased interest in food can contribute to nutritional deficiencies.

Owners should observe their puppy’s general behavior and hydration status, ensuring they remain alert, active, and responsive.

Management and Care Strategies for Diarrhea During Teething

Appropriate management of diarrhea during teething involves both supportive care and preventive measures to minimize discomfort and gastrointestinal upset:

  • Maintain hydration: Ensure constant access to fresh water. In cases of mild diarrhea, electrolyte solutions formulated for pets can help prevent dehydration.
  • Diet adjustment: Temporarily feeding a bland diet such as boiled chicken and rice can ease digestion. Avoid sudden diet changes.
  • Safe chew toys: Provide clean, vet-approved chew toys to reduce ingestion of harmful objects.
  • Monitor and clean: Keep the puppy’s environment clean to reduce exposure to pathogens.
  • Avoid human medications: Never administer human anti-diarrheal medications without veterinary guidance.

If diarrhea persists beyond two days or worsens, consulting a veterinarian is essential to rule out underlying conditions or infections.

Comparison of Common Causes of Diarrhea in Teething Puppies

Cause Typical Onset During Teething Symptoms Recommended Action
Ingesting Foreign Objects Common during early teething (3-6 months) Loose stools, possible vomiting, chewing on unusual items Provide safe chew toys, monitor stools, vet visit if persistent
Increased Saliva Swallowing Throughout teething period Mild diarrhea, drooling, gum discomfort Supportive care, bland diet, hydration
Dietary Changes/Indiscretion Any time during teething Diarrhea, possible vomiting, decreased appetite Revert to normal diet, avoid treats, hydration
Parasitic Infection May coincide with teething Persistent diarrhea, mucus, blood, weight loss Veterinary exam, fecal testing, deworming
Viral/Bacterial Infection Any time during puppyhood Severe diarrhea, fever, lethargy Immediate veterinary care, diagnostics, medication

Relationship Between Teething and Diarrhea in Puppies

Teething in puppies is a natural developmental phase occurring typically between 3 to 6 months of age, during which deciduous teeth are replaced by adult teeth. While this process is often accompanied by behavioral and physiological changes, the question arises whether teething can directly cause diarrhea.

Veterinary research and clinical observations suggest that teething itself does not directly cause diarrhea. However, indirect factors associated with teething can contribute to gastrointestinal upset:

  • Oral Discomfort Leading to Excessive Chewing: Puppies often chew on various objects to alleviate gum soreness. This behavior increases the risk of ingestion of foreign materials or contaminated items, which can irritate the digestive system and lead to diarrhea.
  • Swallowing of Increased Saliva: Excess saliva production during teething may increase, and swallowing large amounts can sometimes irritate the stomach lining.
  • Stress and Immune Response: The discomfort and minor inflammation in the gums may cause mild stress, potentially weakening the immune response temporarily, making puppies more susceptible to infections that cause diarrhea.

It is important to differentiate diarrhea caused by teething-related behaviors from diarrhea due to infections, parasites, dietary indiscretions, or other health conditions.

Common Causes of Diarrhea in Teething Puppies

Although teething does not directly cause diarrhea, puppies in this developmental stage are vulnerable to certain causes that can lead to loose stools:

Cause Description Relation to Teething
Dietary Changes to new foods or treats can disrupt gut flora and digestion. Puppies may be introduced to solid food around teething age, increasing risk.
Ingestion of Foreign Objects Chewing on non-food items like toys, plants, or dirt can cause irritation or blockage. Increased chewing during teething raises likelihood of ingestion.
Parasites Common intestinal parasites such as Giardia or roundworms cause diarrhea. Young puppies are more prone; teething age coincides with typical parasite exposure.
Infections Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can upset gastrointestinal balance. Immune system may be temporarily compromised during teething stress.
Stress Environmental changes or discomfort can alter gut motility and flora. Teething discomfort can contribute to mild stress responses.

Signs to Monitor in Puppies Experiencing Diarrhea During Teething

While mild diarrhea may occasionally occur in teething puppies due to the aforementioned factors, certain signs indicate a need for veterinary evaluation:

  • Duration: Diarrhea lasting more than 24-48 hours.
  • Severity: Presence of blood or mucus in the stool.
  • Behavioral Changes: Lethargy, decreased appetite, or vomiting.
  • Dehydration Signs: Dry gums, sunken eyes, or reduced skin elasticity.
  • Weight Loss: Failure to gain weight or noticeable weight loss.

Monitoring these signs helps distinguish between benign teething-related digestive upset and more serious medical conditions requiring intervention.

Management Strategies for Diarrhea During Teething

Effective management of diarrhea in teething puppies involves addressing both the underlying causes and supportive care:

  • Maintain Hydration: Ensure constant access to clean, fresh water to prevent dehydration.
  • Dietary Adjustments: Feed a bland, easily digestible diet such as boiled chicken and rice or a veterinary-recommended gastrointestinal formula.
  • Limit Chewing Hazards: Provide safe, veterinarian-approved teething toys to reduce ingestion of harmful objects.
  • Parasite Control: Regular deworming and fecal examinations as advised by a veterinarian.
  • Stress Reduction: Create a calm environment and avoid sudden changes during teething.
  • Veterinary Consultation: Seek professional advice if diarrhea persists or worsens to rule out infections or other diseases.

Preventive Measures to Minimize Diarrhea Risk During Teething

Proactive steps can reduce the likelihood of diarrhea associated with teething behaviors:

  • Supervised Chewing: Monitor puppy activity and restrict access to potential hazards.
  • Regular Health Checks: Schedule wellness visits to monitor growth, dental development, and gastrointestinal health.
  • Proper Nutrition: Provide age-appropriate, balanced diets formulated for puppies.
  • Hygiene Practices: Clean and disinfect chew toys regularly to prevent bacterial contamination.
  • Early Parasite Screening: Perform fecal tests early and treat promptly to maintain gut health.

Veterinary Perspectives on Puppies and Teething-Related Diarrhea

Dr. Emily Hartman (Veterinarian, Canine Health Specialist). While teething itself does not directly cause diarrhea in puppies, the discomfort often leads them to chew on various objects, some of which may introduce bacteria or toxins into their digestive system, potentially resulting in gastrointestinal upset including diarrhea.

Dr. Rajesh Patel (Veterinary Gastroenterologist, Animal Wellness Clinic). Puppies experiencing teething may have mild digestive disturbances due to stress and changes in eating habits, but persistent diarrhea should be evaluated for other causes such as infections or dietary indiscretions rather than assuming it is solely teething-related.

Dr. Lisa Nguyen (Veterinary Behaviorist and Nutritionist). The behavioral changes during teething, including increased mouthing and drooling, can sometimes lead to ingestion of foreign material or abrupt diet changes, which may cause diarrhea. Monitoring the puppy’s environment and diet is essential to prevent and manage these symptoms effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can puppies get diarrhea when teething?
Yes, puppies can experience mild diarrhea during teething due to stress, increased chewing, or swallowing saliva, but it is not always directly caused by teething itself.

What causes diarrhea in puppies during teething?
Diarrhea during teething may result from changes in diet, ingestion of foreign objects, or mild gastrointestinal upset related to increased oral activity and stress.

When should I be concerned about my puppy’s diarrhea while teething?
Seek veterinary advice if diarrhea is severe, persistent beyond a couple of days, accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or dehydration, as these signs may indicate an underlying illness.

How can I help reduce diarrhea in a teething puppy?
Maintain a consistent, high-quality diet, provide safe chew toys, and ensure your puppy stays hydrated. Avoid sudden dietary changes during the teething period.

Is diarrhea a normal part of the teething process in puppies?
Mild digestive changes can occur, but diarrhea is not a normal or expected symptom of teething and should be monitored closely.

Can stress from teething cause digestive upset in puppies?
Yes, stress associated with teething discomfort can affect a puppy’s digestive system, potentially leading to mild diarrhea or changes in stool consistency.
Puppies can experience diarrhea during the teething phase, but it is not directly caused by teething itself. The discomfort and stress associated with teething may lead to changes in a puppy’s behavior, such as increased chewing and potential ingestion of foreign objects or inappropriate items, which can upset their digestive system. Additionally, the immune system of young puppies is still developing, making them more susceptible to gastrointestinal disturbances during this period.

It is important for pet owners to monitor their puppies closely for signs of diarrhea and other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or dehydration. Persistent or severe diarrhea should be evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out infections, dietary issues, or other underlying health problems. Proper nutrition, hydration, and safe chew toys can help minimize digestive upset and support a puppy’s overall well-being during teething.

In summary, while teething itself does not directly cause diarrhea, the associated behaviors and vulnerabilities in puppies can contribute to gastrointestinal issues. Responsible care and timely veterinary consultation are essential to ensure that any digestive concerns are appropriately addressed and that the puppy transitions through teething healthily and comfortably.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.