A Helpful Guide for Pet Parents
Diarrhea in dogs is an all-too-common issue that can be worrying for pet owners. While it often resolves on its own, what you feed your dog during this time can significantly impact their recovery. Here’s a guide to understanding what to feed a dog with diarrhea and when to seek veterinary help.
Why Does Diarrhea Happen in Dogs?
Diarrhea can result from various factors, including:
- Sudden changes in diet
- Eating something they shouldn’t have
- Stress or anxiety
- Parasites, infections, or underlying medical conditions
If your dog’s diarrhea persists for more than 24-48 hours, or if there are signs of blood, lethargy, or vomiting, consult your vet immediately.
The First Step: Fasting (for Adult Dogs)
In many cases, allowing your dog’s digestive system to rest by withholding food for 12-24 hours can help. Ensure they have constant access to fresh water to prevent dehydration. Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with medical conditions should not fast unless instructed by a vet.
What to Feed a Dog with Diarrhea
After a fasting period (if applicable), introduce a bland diet that’s gentle on their stomach:
- Boiled Chicken and Rice
- Skinless, boneless chicken breast boiled and shredded
- Plain white rice (not brown, as it’s harder to digest)
- Feed small portions and observe how your dog responds.
- Pumpkin
- Canned pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is rich in fibre, which can help firm up stools.
- Add a teaspoon for small dogs or a tablespoon for larger breeds to their food.
- Mashed Potatoes (Without Additives)
- Plain boiled potatoes can be soothing. Ensure there’s no butter, salt, or seasoning.
- Plain Yoghurt
- A small amount of plain, unsweetened yoghurt can help restore gut bacteria balance. Avoid if your dog is lactose intolerant.
- Oatmeal
- Cooked plain oatmeal is easy to digest and can help soothe an upset stomach.
Foods to Avoid
When dealing with diarrhea, avoid the following:
- Fatty or spicy foods
- Dairy (unless plain yoghurt is being used as a probiotic)
- Raw vegetables
- Grains like brown rice or quinoa
When to Reintroduce Regular Food
Gradually transition back to your dog’s regular diet over 3-4 days once their stools normalise. Start by mixing small amounts of their regular food with the bland diet, increasing the proportion of regular food daily.
Hydration Is Key
Dogs with diarrhea lose fluids and electrolytes, so ensuring proper hydration is essential. You can offer plain water or an electrolyte solution (vet-approved).
When to Call the Vet
Seek professional advice if:
- Diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours
- Your dog is vomiting, lethargic, or refusing food and water
- There’s blood in the stool
- Your dog has underlying health conditions
Preventing Future Episodes
- Keep your dog’s diet consistent.
- Avoid giving table scraps or allowing them access to trash.
- Ensure they’re up to date on deworming and vaccinations.
- Transition to new foods gradually to avoid upsetting their stomach.
Diarrhea can be uncomfortable for your furry friend, but with the right care, most dogs recover quickly. By offering a gentle diet and monitoring their condition closely, you can help them bounce back to their usual tail-wagging selves in no time!
For more tips on dog ownership and care, explore the Dog Blog at Dog Deals for valuable resources.