7 Easily Digestible Foods to Give Your Dog for Diarrhea

Diarrhea can be a common problem among dogs and can range from mild to severe. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in diet, stress, infections, or underlying health issues. It can be distressing for both the dog and the owner. But, there are several things you can do to help your dog feel better and recover from diarrhea. In this article, we will discuss what to get dogs for diarrhea and how you can manage this condition at home.

Understanding the Causes of Diarrhea in Dogs

Diarrhea in dogs is a common problem that can have many causes. Some of the most common causes of diarrhea in dogs include diet changes, intestinal parasites, viral or bacterial infections, food allergies or intolerances, and stress or anxiety. Other possible causes of diarrhea in dogs include pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain medications.

To better understand the cause of diarrhea in your dog, it is important to observe their behavior and symptoms. When you notice your dog having diarrhea, take note of how long it lasts, how frequently they have bowel movements, and if there are any other accompanying symptoms such as vomiting or loss of appetite. You should also consider any recent changes in your dog’s diet or environment.

If your dog has diarrhea for more than a day or two, or if their diarrhea is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to seek veterinary care. Your veterinarian can perform diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your dog’s diarrhea and provide appropriate treatment to help them recover.

In conclusion, diarrhea in dogs can have many causes, and understanding the underlying cause is important for proper treatment. If your dog has diarrhea, it is important to observe their symptoms and seek veterinary care if necessary.

SYMPTOMS	DESCRIPTION	VETERINARY CARE
Mild Symptoms	Loose stools, occasional vomiting, still eating and drinking normally	If symptoms persist for more than 24-48 hours, or if the dog becomes lethargic or shows signs of dehydration
Moderate Symptoms	Frequent diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, signs of dehydration	If symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, or if the dog shows signs of lethargy, weakness, or dehydration
Severe Symptoms	Bloody diarrhea, severe vomiting, inability to eat or drink, signs of dehydration, lethargy, weakness	Immediately, as this could be a sign of a serious underlying condition that requires urgent treatment

Over-the-Counter Medications for Dog Diarrhea

If your dog is suffering from diarrhea, you might be wondering what over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help. There are a few options available, but it’s important to note that not all OTC medications are safe for dogs and some may actually make the diarrhea worse. One option is to give your dog a probiotic supplement, which can help restore the good bacteria in their gut and improve digestion. Another option is to give your dog an anti-diarrheal medication like loperamide or bismuth subsalicylate, which can help slow down the digestive system and reduce diarrhea. However, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication, as they can advise you on the best course of treatment depending on the cause and severity of your dog’s diarrhea. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that your dog stays hydrated by providing plenty of fresh water and electrolyte solutions. Overall, while there are OTC medications available for treating dog diarrhea, it’s important to approach the situation with caution and seek veterinary advice before administering any medications to your furry friend.

Prescription Medications for Dog Diarrhea

Prescription medications for dog diarrhea can be a useful tool in treating this uncomfortable and often messy condition. There are several different types of medications that may be prescribed by a veterinarian, depending on the underlying cause of the diarrhea and the severity of the symptoms. Some common prescription medications for dog diarrhea include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and probiotics. Antibiotics may be prescribed if the diarrhea is caused by a bacterial infection, while anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and help alleviate symptoms of diarrhea. Probiotics, on the other hand, may be recommended as a way to restore the natural balance of healthy bacteria in a dog’s gut and promote better digestive health. While prescription medications can be effective in treating dog diarrhea, it is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment for your pet’s specific needs. Additionally, it is important to follow all instructions on the medication label carefully and to monitor your dog closely for any side effects or changes in symptoms.

MEDICATION NAME	DOSAGE	SIDE EFFECTS	PRECAUTIONS
Metronidazole	5-20 mg/kg, twice a day	Vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and lethargy	Do not administer to pregnant dogs or those with liver disease
Tylosin	5-10 mg/kg, twice a day	Vomiting, diarrhea, and inappetence	Not recommended for use in dogs with liver disease
Tetracycline	10-20 mg/kg, twice a day	Vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite	Do not administer to growing puppies, pregnant dogs, or those with liver or kidney disease
Sulfasalazine	10-20 mg/kg, twice a day	Vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia	Not recommended for use in dogs with liver or kidney disease
Amoxicillin	10-20 mg/kg, twice a day	Vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia	Do not administer to dogs with a history of allergic reactions to penicillins or cephalosporins
Azithromycin	5-10 mg/kg, once a day	Vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite	Not recommended for use in dogs with liver or kidney disease
Enrofloxacin	5-20 mg/kg, once a day	Vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia	Not recommended for use in young puppies or dogs with a history of seizures
Cephalexin	10-20 mg/kg, twice a day	Vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia	Do not administer to dogs with a history of allergic reactions to penicillins or cephalosporins
Clindamycin	10-25 mg/kg, twice a day	Vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia	Do not administer to dogs with liver or kidney disease
Probiotics	Varies depending on the product	None	None
Pepto-Bismol	0.5-1.5 ml/kg, every 6-8 hours	Darkening of the stool and tongue, vomiting, and diarrhea	Do not administer to dogs with liver or kidney disease
Imodium	0.1-0.2 mg/kg, every 8-12 hours	Vomiting, constipation, and abdominal discomfort	Do not use in dogs with liver or kidney disease, or in dogs that are pregnant or nursing
Metoclopramide	0.2-0.5 mg/kg, every 8-12 hours	Vomiting, diarrhea, and sedation	Do not administer to dogs with a history of seizures
Famotidine	0.25-0.5 mg/kg, every 12-24 hours	None	None
Omeprazole	0.5-1 mg/kg, every 24 hours	None	Do not administer to dogs with liver or kidney disease

Home Remedies for Dog Diarrhea

If your dog is experiencing diarrhea, there are a few home remedies that you can try to help alleviate their symptoms. One option is to feed your dog a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken and rice. Another remedy is to give your dog probiotics to help restore the balance of good bacteria in their gut. Additionally, you can try adding canned pumpkin or cooked sweet potato to their food, as both of these ingredients can help firm up their stool. It’s important to make sure your dog stays hydrated during this time, so make sure they have access to fresh, clean water at all times. If your dog’s diarrhea persists for more than a day or two, or if they show signs of dehydration, such as lethargy or dry gums, it’s important to take them to the vet for further treatment.

REMEDY	DOSAGE INSTRUCTIONS	INGREDIENTS	POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS	EFFECTIVENESS RATING
Canned pumpkin	1 tablespoon per 10 pounds of body weight, twice a day	Canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)	None reported	4.5/5
Boiled chicken and rice	1/4 to 1/2 cup of boiled chicken and rice, twice a day	Boneless, skinless chicken breast and white rice	None reported	4/5
Probiotics	Follow package instructions	Live bacterial supplements	None reported	3.5/5
Slippery Elm Bark	1/4 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight, twice a day	Slippery Elm Bark Powder	None reported	4/5
Activated Charcoal	Follow package instructions	Activated charcoal	May cause constipation if used for more than a few days	3/5
Fiber Supplements	Follow package instructions	Psyllium husk, methylcellulose, or other fiber supplements	May cause bloating or gas	3/5
Bland Diet	1/4 to 1/2 cup of boiled chicken and rice, twice a day	Boneless, skinless chicken breast and white rice	None reported	3.5/5
Raw Honey	1 teaspoon per 20 pounds of body weight, twice a day	Raw honey	None reported	3/5
Bentonite Clay	1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight, twice a day	Bentonite clay	May cause constipation if used for more than a few days	2.5/5
Yogurt	1-2 tablespoons per 10 pounds of body weight, twice a day	Plain, unsweetened yogurt with live cultures	May cause gas or bloating	2.5/5
Apple Cider Vinegar	1 teaspoon per 20 pounds of body weight, twice a day	Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar	May irritate throat or stomach	2/5
Coconut Oil	1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight, twice a day	Virgin coconut oil	May cause loose stools or diarrhea if given too much	2.5/5
Ginger	Small amounts mixed with food	Fresh ginger root	May cause stomach upset if given too much	2/5
Chamomile Tea	Small amounts mixed with food	Brewed chamomile tea	May cause drowsiness	1.5/5
Parsley	Small amounts mixed with food	Fresh parsley	May cause stomach upset if given too much	1.5/5

The Importance of Rehydration for Dogs with Diarrhea

Dealing with a dog with diarrhea can be a messy and stressful experience for pet owners. One of the most important things to take care of is ensuring that your furry friend stays hydrated throughout the ordeal. Dehydration can cause serious health complications, and it is crucial to keep your dog’s fluid levels up to promote healing and recovery. Some effective ways to rehydrate a dog with diarrhea include offering fresh water regularly, providing electrolyte solutions, administering a bland diet, and monitoring your dog’s water intake. Remember that rehydration is essential for the health and well-being of your furry friend, and with proper care, your pup will be back to their healthy and playful self in no time!

The Role of Probiotics in Treating Dog Diarrhea

It’s a well-known fact that dogs can be prone to all sorts of digestive issues, including diarrhea. While there are many different causes of this unpleasant condition, one potential treatment that has been gaining a lot of attention in recent years is the use of probiotics. These live bacteria and yeasts are thought to help restore balance to the gut, promoting healthy digestion and reducing the severity and duration of diarrhea. However, there is still much debate and uncertainty surrounding the effectiveness of probiotics in treating dog diarrhea. Some experts argue that they are a valuable tool in the fight against digestive issues, while others are more skeptical, citing a lack of concrete evidence to support their use. Despite this ambiguity, many pet owners continue to turn to probiotics as a potential solution for their furry friends’ digestive woes. As with any treatment, it’s important to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of using probiotics for dog diarrhea and to work closely with a veterinarian to develop a customized treatment plan that takes into account the unique needs and health status of your pet.

Natural Supplements for Dog Diarrhea

If your dog is suffering from diarrhea, natural supplements can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery. Some popular natural supplements for dog diarrhea include probiotics, slippery elm, and pumpkin. Probiotics contain beneficial bacteria that can help regulate your dog’s digestive system and improve gut health. Slippery elm is a natural herb that can soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation. Pumpkin is rich in fiber and can help bulk up stool and regulate bowel movements. Other natural supplements that may be helpful for dog diarrhea include ginger, chamomile, and activated charcoal. As with any supplement, it’s important to consult with your vet before giving them to your dog, as some supplements may interact with other medications or health conditions.

The Best Foods to Feed a Dog with Diarrhea

If your dog is experiencing diarrhea, it’s important to look for foods that are easy to digest and won’t further irritate their gastrointestinal tract. Some good options include boiled chicken, white rice, and pumpkin puree. Boiled chicken provides a source of lean protein, while white rice is bland and easy to digest. Pumpkin puree is high in fiber and can help firm up your dog’s stool. It’s important to avoid foods that are high in fat, such as dairy products, and also avoid giving your dog any human foods that are spicy or seasoned. Additionally, make sure your dog stays well-hydrated by providing plenty of fresh water. If your dog’s diarrhea persists or worsens, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.

FOOD	SERVING SIZE	BENEFITS	PRECAUTIONS
Bone Broth	1/4 cup to 1 cup depending on dog's size	Soothes digestive system, rehydrates, high in nutrients	Avoid store-bought brands with added spices or onion/garlic flavoring
Canned Pumpkin	1 tbsp to 1/2 cup depending on dog's size	High in fiber, can ease constipation and diarrhea	Make sure to use plain canned pumpkin, not pie filling with added sugar
Boiled Chicken	1/4 cup to 1 cup depending on dog's size	Easily digestible protein, can be served with rice for added benefits	Avoid seasoning with salt and spices
Boiled White Rice	1/4 cup to 1 cup depending on dog's size	Easily digestible carbohydrate, can be served with chicken for added benefits	Avoid adding any seasonings or sauces
Plain Yogurt	1 tsp to 1 tbsp depending on dog's size	Contains probiotics, helps restore healthy gut bacteria	Make sure to use plain yogurt without added sugar or artificial sweeteners
Ground Beef	1/4 cup to 1 cup depending on dog's size	High in protein, easily digestible	Use lean ground beef and avoid seasoning with salt and spices
Sweet Potato	1/4 cup to 1 cup depending on dog's size	High in fiber, soothes digestive system	Boil or bake plain sweet potato, avoid adding butter or seasonings
Boiled Eggs	1/4 to 1/2 boiled egg depending on dog's size	High in protein, easily digestible	Avoid seasoning with salt and ensure eggs are fully cooked
Cottage Cheese	1 tsp to 1 tbsp depending on dog's size	High in protein, easily digestible	Make sure to use plain cottage cheese without added salt or flavorings
White Fish	1/4 cup to 1 cup depending on dog's size	High in protein, easily digestible	Avoid seasoning with salt and ensure the fish is fully cooked
Boiled Carrots	1/4 cup to 1 cup depending on dog's size	High in fiber, soothes digestive system	Boil plain carrots, avoid adding butter or seasonings
Oatmeal	1/4 cup to 1 cup depending on dog's size	High in fiber, soothes digestive system	Make sure to use plain oatmeal without added sugar or flavorings
Applesauce	1 tsp to 1 tbsp depending on dog's size	High in fiber, soothes digestive system	Make sure to use unsweetened applesauce without added sugar or flavorings
Coconut Oil	1 tsp to 1 tbsp depending on dog's size	Soothes digestive system, contains healthy fats	Make sure to use virgin coconut oil and start with a small amount to prevent upset stomach
Blueberries	1-3 berries depending on dog's size	High in fiber, contains antioxidants	Moderation is key – too many blueberries can cause diarrhea

How to Prevent Diarrhea in Dogs

Diarrhea in dogs can be a frustrating and messy problem, but there are steps you can take to prevent it. One way to prevent diarrhea in dogs is to make sure they are on a healthy diet. This means feeding them high-quality dog food that is free from fillers and artificial ingredients. Another way to prevent diarrhea in dogs is to make sure they have access to clean water at all times. Dehydration can lead to diarrhea, so it is important to make sure your dog is drinking enough water. Additionally, you should make sure your dog gets regular exercise and is up-to-date on all their vaccinations. While it may be difficult to prevent diarrhea in dogs entirely, taking these steps can help reduce the risk of your furry friend experiencing this uncomfortable condition.

FOOD GROUP	FOOD ITEM	SERVING SIZE	NOTES
Include	Cooked white rice	1/2 cup for small dogs, 1 cup for large dogs	Provides easily digestible carbohydrates and promotes firm stools
Include	Boiled chicken	1/2 cup for small dogs, 1 cup for large dogs	Provides easily digestible protein and promotes healing
Include	Canned pumpkin (unsweetened)	1 tablespoon for small dogs, 2 tablespoons for large dogs	Provides fiber and promotes regularity
Include	Probiotics	As directed by your veterinarian	Restores healthy gut bacteria
Include	Low-fat cottage cheese	1/4 cup for small dogs, 1/2 cup for large dogs	Provides easily digestible protein
Avoid	Raw meat	N/A	May contain harmful bacteria that can cause diarrhea
Avoid	High-fat foods	N/A	Can worsen diarrhea and lead to pancreatitis
Avoid	Spicy foods	N/A	Can irritate the digestive tract and worsen diarrhea
Avoid	Dairy products	N/A	May be difficult for dogs to digest and worsen diarrhea
Avoid	Table scraps	N/A	May contain ingredients that worsen diarrhea
Include	Boiled sweet potatoes	1/4 cup for small dogs, 1/2 cup for large dogs	Provides easily digestible carbohydrates and promotes firm stools
Include	Boiled white fish	1/2 cup for small dogs, 1 cup for large dogs	Provides easily digestible protein and promotes healing
Include	Plain boiled pasta	1/2 cup for small dogs, 1 cup for large dogs	Provides easily digestible carbohydrates and promotes firm stools
Include	Boiled turkey	1/2 cup for small dogs, 1 cup for large dogs	Provides easily digestible protein and promotes healing
Include	Low-fat Greek yogurt	1 tablespoon for small dogs, 2 tablespoons for large dogs	Provides probiotics and easily digestible protein

When to See a Veterinarian for Dog Diarrhea

If your dog experiences diarrhea, it’s important to keep an eye on their condition and monitor them closely. In some cases, diarrhea may resolve on its own after a day or two. However, if your dog’s diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours or is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately. Other signs that may warrant a trip to the vet include blood or mucus in the stool, severe abdominal pain, or dehydration. While there are some home remedies and over-the-counter medications that may help to alleviate your dog’s diarrhea, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives the appropriate care and treatment for their individual needs.

SYMPTOMS	DESCRIPTION	VETERINARY CARE
Mild Symptoms	Loose stools, occasional vomiting, still eating and drinking normally	If symptoms persist for more than 24-48 hours, or if the dog becomes lethargic or shows signs of dehydration
Moderate Symptoms	Frequent diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, signs of dehydration	If symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, or if the dog shows signs of lethargy, weakness, or dehydration
Severe Symptoms	Bloody diarrhea, severe vomiting, inability to eat or drink, signs of dehydration, lethargy, weakness	Immediately, as this could be a sign of a serious underlying condition that requires urgent treatment

What should I feed my dog when they have diarrhea?

It is recommended to feed your dog a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken and rice or boiled ground beef and rice. Make sure to remove all bones, skin, and fat from the meat.

Can I give my dog any medications for their diarrhea?

It is not recommended to give your dog any over-the-counter medications without consulting a veterinarian first. They may prescribe medications such as probiotics, antibiotics, or anti-diarrheal medication if necessary.

How can I prevent my dog from getting diarrhea?

Make sure your dog is up to date on all their vaccinations, keep their living area clean, and avoid feeding them table scraps or any foods that may upset their stomach. Also, avoid giving them any non-food items to play with or chew on.

When should I take my dog to the vet for their diarrhea?

If your dog’s diarrhea lasts for more than a day, or if they show any other concerning symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or lack of appetite, it is recommended to take them to the vet for a check-up.

It is important to take care of your dog’s health and well-being. If your dog is experiencing diarrhea, there are several things you can do to help alleviate their discomfort. After consulting with your vet, you may want to consider feeding them a bland diet, providing them with plenty of water to stay hydrated, and avoiding certain foods that may exacerbate the diarrhea. Additionally, you may want to consider giving them probiotics or supplements that can aid in digestive health. Remember to always consult with your vet if your dog is experiencing any health issues, as they can provide you with the best advice and treatment options.