Poop is not one of the highlights of dog parenting, but you can think of it as a telegram from your dog’s digestive system. Paying attention to what’s left behind on your walk can give you powerful insights into your dog’s well-being. This is particularly important since dogs tend to mask health issues (an evolutionary necessity), and despite being great communicators, can’t spell out their health issues. 

1. Check the Color: It’s More Than Just Brown

Dog poop comes in a surprising range of colors and each one means something different. Use this visual guide to get a sense of what might be going on inside your pup.

Of course, if unhealthy poop colors persist, check in with your vet.

2. Poop Shape Matters More Than You Think

You might not give much thought to the shape of your dog’s business, but vets do. A healthy dog poop is log-shaped and firm enough to pick up in one tidy motion. Here are some insights into what poor consistency might be telling you:

If things firm up in a day, no worries. But if the poop softness continues more than 48 hours, it’s worth getting a medical opinion. 

3. What’s In It: Seeds, Strings & Surprises

Yes, you should take a peek inside… Undigested food, grass, plastic bits, or string could indicate dietary issues or foreign body ingestion. Worms-dead or alive-require a fast call to your vet. So does mucus, which may signal colitis.

Pro tip: If your dog is the type to raid the trash, eat socks, or "sample" things on walks, knowing their baseline poop will help you notice when something’s off.

4. Frequency is the Final Clue

Dogs are creatures of habit. If your pup usually poops twice a day and suddenly it’s five or zero something’s up.

• More frequent = maybe a new treat isn’t sitting well or your dog is easting too many table scraps
• Less frequent = constipation, dehydration, or inactivity
• Skipping altogether = watch for signs of discomfort, and if no poop for 48+ hours, get veterinary advice

Just like people, every dog’s “normal” is different but consistency is key.

Packing it all up

Carrying poop bags isn’t just polite- it’s an opportunity to keep tabs on your dog’s health. From color and shape to unexpected ingredients, your dog’s poop carries important health clues. By tuning in, you can catch small issues before they become big ones.

 

FAQ

Q: What should my dog's poop normally look like?
A: Normal dog poop should be chocolate brown, firm and log-shaped, and easy to pick up in one motion. It should hold its form without being too hard or too soft. Consistency and color can vary slightly based on diet, but these are the hallmarks of healthy dog poop.

Q: When should I be worried about my dog's poop color?
A: Contact your vet if you see red (indicating bleeding), black (upper GI bleeding), yellow (possible infection), or white spots/worms. Gray, greasy poop suggests too much fat. Occasional green or orange from diet is usually fine, but persistent unusual colors warrant a check-up.

Q: What poop consistency indicates a problem?
A: Diarrhea or watery poop lasting over 48 hours signals sickness, stress, or dehydration. Very hard, dry poop means lack of fiber or hydration. Soft and soggy suggests too many carbs or processed food. Part firm, part loose may indicate IBS or malabsorption—consult your vet if it continues.

Q: How often should my dog poop normally?
A: Most dogs poop 1-2 times daily, though frequency varies by size, age, and diet. Sudden changes matter more than the number itself. More frequent pooping may mean dietary upset or too many treats. No poop for 48+ hours suggests constipation or blockage—time to call your vet.

Q: What should I do if I notice abnormal dog poop?
A: Monitor for 24-48 hours if it's a one-time occurrence. Note color, consistency, frequency, and any behavior changes. If abnormal poop persists, your dog seems uncomfortable, or you see blood/worms, contact your vet immediately. When in doubt, it's always better to get professional advice early.