What should my dog’s poop look like? The link between poop and a healthy gut...
The silent language of digestion: Why their poop is the key to their health
Let’s address the elephant in the poo bag.
Dog poo might not be glamorous, but it is one of the clearest, quickest and most reliable indicators of your dog’s health. UK vets consistently agree that changes in stool shape, colour, texture or frequency often point to changes in gut health - and gut health starts with nutrition.
If you’ve ever stood there mid-walk thinking,
“Is this… normal?”
You’re not alone. We’ve all been there. Bag in hand. Questions in mind.
Ever wondered what a normal dog poo is meant to look like?
Your dog’s poo gives you a daily snapshot of how well their digestive system is working. According to UK veterinary guidance, healthy digestion relies on a balanced gut microbiome - and stool quality reflects just how well that system is functioning.
Poo isn’t just waste. It’s feedback.
In fact, it’s your dog’s #1 health indicator. The shape, texture, colour, smell and frequency can all tell you something about:
- How digestible their food is
- Whether they’re getting enough fibre
- Stress levels (yes, stress affects poo)
- Food sensitivities
-
Overall gut balance
Think of it as your dog’s daily wellness report. Unfortunately, it’s delivered… on the pavement… or worse
What should healthy dog poo look like?
Healthy dog poo should be:
- Firm and log-shaped
- Easy to pick up
- Dark brown in colour
- Slightly shiny and smooth on the surface
-
Mild in smell
This is what well-digested, balanced nutrition looks like in action. If your dog’s poo looks like this most days, congratulations - their gut is doing its job. Gold star. ⭐️
When Is Dog Poo Not Normal?
If you’re thinking “you do realise that poo situation isn’t normal” - you might be right…
Common signs of poor gut health in dogs include poo that is:
- Runny or watery
- Chalky or very pale
- Yellow in colour
- Bloody or mucousy
-
Extremely smelly
According to the PDSA and The Kennel Club, these symptoms can indicate:
- Low fibre intake
- Stress
- Food sensitivities
- Sudden diet changes
- Gut microbiome imbalance
If these issues persist, veterinary advice is always recommended - your dog’s diet nutrition is often the first place professionals suggest reviewing.
What does dog poo have to do with nutrition?
Short answer? Everything.
Your dog’s digestive system responds directly to what’s in their bowl. Low-quality ingredients, cheap fillers, poor digestibility or unbalanced diets often show up as loose stools, bad smells and inconsistent bathroom habits. Equally some premium diets can be too rich for some sensitive tummies and can cause unwanted upsets.
Veterinary nutrition experts consistently highlight that digestibility matters more than volume. When food is properly digested, nutrients are absorbed - and less waste comes out the other end.
Better food in. Better poo out. Simple maths.
Caboodle: Supporting your dog’s gut health through balanced nutrition
The good news - the right balanced food with some key ingredients can make a huge difference.
Caboodle’s wet and dry food is designed to support digestion and gut balance, using ingredients chosen specifically to nourish the gut and keep your dog’s constitution stable.
Our recipes include:
- High-quality protein (minimum 60%) easier to digest, better nutrient absorption
- Fibre-rich ingredients - Including chicory root, sweet potato and vegetables to support regular stools.
- A range of fruit and vegetables - providing natural fibre and micronutrients
- Pre, pro and postbiotics - to help support a balanced gut microbiome
-
Salmon oil - supporting gut lining health and inflammation control
Because wet food naturally contains moisture and is easier to digest, many owners notice improvements in stool consistency and smell within days of transitioning. Equally Caboodle’s dry superfood crunch has added prebiotics to prevent sensitivities and improve immune systems
Yes — this means fewer “Oh No!” moments on walks.
How to improve poor gut health in dogs
If your dog’s poo isn’t quite right, UK vets generally recommend:
- Reviewing the main diet first
- Avoiding sudden food changes
- Choosing digestible, fibre-balanced meals
- Feeding consistently
-
Monitoring stool changes over time
Gradual dietary improvements often lead to noticeable changes in poo quality within 1-2 weeks. Slow changes = calm guts.
Caboodle tip: poo is your daily health check
Think of poo as your dog’s daily report card.
- Firm
- Easy to pick up
- Consistent
- Mild smell
If things go off track regularly, your dog’s diet is usually the first thing worth reassessing.
Healthy poo starts with the right food
Dog poo might not be a dinner-table topic (unless you’re us), but it’s one of the most valuable clues you have for understanding your dog’s gut health.
Choosing a high-quality wet dog food with digestible ingredients, fibre and gut-supporting nutrients can make a visible, sniff-test-approved difference.
👉 Shop Caboodle’s bestsellers for happier tummies, healthier guts and better walks.
Because life’s too short for dodgy poo.
