Gastrointestinal (GI or GIT) illness, commonly known as gastroenteritis, is a frequent ailment among dogs. This condition manifests as an upset stomach, often leading to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, or a notable change in appetite. In such instances, providing a bland diet can significantly aid your dog’s recovery at home. However, discerning when a bland diet is appropriate and when professional veterinary care is necessary can be challenging. This guide will provide essential insights into bland diets for dogs.
A bland diet serves as an easily digestible food option for dogs experiencing GI distress. The digestive system requires nutrients from food to effectively combat stomach upset symptoms, and bland diets ensure that sick pups can still consume necessary nourishment. These diets can be prepared at home or purchased commercially in kibble or wet food forms. Bland diets formulated for dogs with gastroenteritis also support better digestion. The ideal bland diet for dogs often possesses specific attributes tailored to their symptoms or underlying diagnosis.
Key Characteristics of a Bland Diet
Highly Digestible
Foods that are highly digestible allow dogs to efficiently absorb essential nutrients. Opting for high-quality ingredients and avoiding overly processed foods is paramount. Even dog kibble can be highly digestible if specifically labeled for dogs experiencing gastroenteritis, such as formulations like Hill’s® i/d Digestive Care or Royal Canin® Gastrointestinal.
Commonly used lean proteins in bland diets for dogs include chicken, turkey, cottage cheese, and lean ground beef. These proteins are generally well-tolerated by dogs with sensitive stomachs, unlike other proteins their system may not be accustomed to. Carbohydrates such as plain white rice or potato, brown rice, barley, or even whole wheat pasta are frequently incorporated. These carbohydrates not only add bulk to the diet but also help absorb excess water in the gut, which is beneficial for dogs suffering from diarrhea or loose stools. While not always essential, certain fresh vegetables like pumpkin can contribute beneficial fiber. It’s crucial that all ingredients, including vegetables, are free from added sodium or seasonings.
Low Fat
Low-fat foods are the optimal choice for dogs experiencing stomach upset due to conditions like pancreatitis or chronic gastrointestinal disease. Once a dog shows a positive response to these diets, continuing them can help prevent relapses.
High Fiber
High-fiber foods assist the digestive system in moving contents through the digestive tract. These are particularly beneficial for dogs suffering from diarrhea or other related issues.
Hypoallergenic
Hypoallergenic or novel protein diets can be instrumental for dogs experiencing stomach upset stemming from food allergies. These diets may feature a new (novel) protein source or be a hydrolyzed diet. A novel protein limited ingredient diet utilizes proteins the dog’s immune system hasn’t encountered before, often including less common meats like rabbit or venison. Examples include Hill’s d/d and Royal Canin Selective Protein.
Calorically Dense
Calorically dense (high-energy) foods are vital for dogs recovering from major illnesses, surgery, or any condition that impacts their appetite. Canned food diets like Hill’s a/d Urgent Care or Royal Canin Recovery provide sufficient energy with just a small portion, which can help reduce symptoms like vomiting.
Veterinary Diets vs. Homemade Bland Diets
Historically, homemade dog-friendly diets were the go-to choice for pet owners managing gastrointestinal illnesses in their dogs. However, advancements in veterinary nutrition have led to the development of excellent commercially available diets that effectively address upset stomachs in dogs. While feeding a homemade bland diet of chicken and rice or beef and potato remains an option, commercially available kibble or canned versions often offer greater benefits.
Compared to home-cooked chicken and rice, a prescription diet for dogs with stomach issues provides not only bland ingredients but also essential vitamins and minerals for a complete and balanced diet. These veterinary diets are also safe for long-term use, even for life, for dogs with chronic gastrointestinal issues like pancreatitis or gastroenteritis. In contrast, prolonged reliance on home-cooked diets can lead to nutritional deficiencies, potentially causing further health problems. It might also lead to food aversion when the dog recovers and needs to transition back to their regular food.
However, for short-term use (days to weeks) or to encourage a sick dog’s appetite, home-cooked bland diets are a safe choice, provided they are administered under veterinary guidance.
Best Diet for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
Dogs with sensitive stomachs can greatly benefit from a specialized diet. A sensitive stomach is often not linked to a specific medical condition; rather, these dogs are more susceptible to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or reduced appetite after consuming something new or inappropriate, such as trash. Sensitive stomachs are common in both puppies and senior dogs, whose immune systems may be weaker, but they can affect dogs of any age.
The best dog foods for sensitive stomachs typically contain highly digestible proteins and carbohydrates, supplemented with fiber and probiotics. Popular choices include specialized commercial diets designed for digestive health.
Feeding Your Dog During Recovery
When a dog is on a bland diet, they are often not feeling their best, and may require encouragement to eat. To make meals more appealing, consider these methods:
- Hand-feeding
- Feeding in a quiet, calm environment
- Soaking food in water
- Syringe-feeding
- Adding low-fat, low-sodium broth to the food
- Incorporating a lean meal topper, pumpkin, or probiotics for dogs
Always consult your veterinarian to determine the best approach for your dog. Use caution when adding anything to a bland diet, as even small additions can be too rich and exacerbate stomach upset. Your vet might also suggest feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. For home-cooked bland diets, discuss appropriate portion sizes with your veterinarian.
Duration of a Bland Diet for GI Upset
The length of time a dog needs to stay on a special bland diet depends on the underlying cause of their GI upset and their rate of recovery.
- If your dog recovers quickly, typically within 48 hours, they can usually return to their regular diet.
- If symptoms persist beyond 48 hours, contact your veterinarian. They may advise continuing the bland diet for a few days after symptoms have completely resolved.
- For dogs whose GI upset stems from a diagnosed underlying medical condition, the bland diet will likely be a long-term or even lifelong necessity.
Additional Support for Upset Stomachs
If your dog’s symptoms worsen or if they are refusing to eat, hospitalization for supportive care, including IV fluids and anti-nausea medication, may be necessary. Offering probiotics in your dog’s food can help restore beneficial bacteria in the digestive system, which are often depleted during periods of GI upset like diarrhea. A fiber supplement can also aid in firming up stool.
Ensure your dog stays adequately hydrated and consider keeping a food journal to track their intake and symptoms. This information can be invaluable if veterinary treatment becomes necessary. It is advisable to limit your dog’s food intake during this period and refrain from giving treats or table scraps, as these can aggravate their GI upset. With patience, care, and nutritional support through a bland diet, your dog should soon be feeling much better.
