Expert: Hilary Schiavone-Brensinger - 10/27/2004

Question
I have a 14-pound Yorkie that is approximately 3 years old.  I had adopted him a little over a year ago so I do not know his exact age or medical history.  He just had his annual check up in August and the vet said he was very healthy.  This morning I had noticed that there was a brown spot (liquid) on his pee pad.  It did not smell like urine so I assumed somebody spilled something on it.  Well, my husband just got home and said that there was another brown spot on the new pad and the dog has diarrea.  The only think different that he has eaten are these new treats that I never buy (Pupperoni.)

Is this normal or should I take him to the vet?

Sincerely,

Dana Mancino

Answer
Hi Dana!  It does sound as though these little spots are due to diarrhea.  Brown urine would indicate blood in the urine which is caused by a bladder/urinary tract infection, or bladder stones.  If you notice that your dog is literally urinating brown urine, a vet visit for antibiotics is necessary.  
It does sound as though this is simply from diarrhea, which is caused by a slight tummy upset from the Pupperoni treats.  My little shih tzu gets a tummy upset from those treats too!
By feeding your dog a combination of white rice and boiled chicken (boneless and skinless) for a few days, the diarrhea should clear up very quickly.  The chicken is very bland and easy for a dog's digestive system to digest, giving that tummy a little break, but still offering some nutrients.  The rice works as a firming agent.  You should feed this bland diet for about 2 or 3 days.  On the 3rd or 4th day incorporate a bit of his normal dog food, and the next day, just feed him his normal dog food.  If you still notice diarrhea, a vet visit would be beneficial.  For now, I would definitely think the treats are the culprit and the bland diet should cure him in no time.
I hope this helps and if you have any more questions, please feel free to ask!
Sending tons of Yorkie get well kisses,
Hilary