Discovering your dog has diarrhea can be a concerning experience for any pet owner. This often leads to the crucial questions: Is it safe to feed a dog with diarrhea, and if so, what should they eat? This guide will provide insights into managing your dog’s digestive upset, focusing on appropriate dietary adjustments for both acute and chronic cases.
Should You Feed a Dog Experiencing Diarrhea?
The answer largely depends on the severity and accompanying symptoms. If your dog has diarrhea but is not vomiting, a bland diet is generally recommended, often supplemented with probiotics to support a healthy digestive system. Withholding food isn’t typically necessary in these non-vomiting cases, as it can discourage them from eating when you reintroduce food.
However, for very young puppies (under three months), senior dogs, or those with pre-existing health conditions, it is crucial to consult your veterinarian before considering any fasting period.
The Role of Fasting in Diarrhea Management
In some situations, a short fast, such as 12 hours, might be advised, particularly if your dog has ingested something inappropriate. Fasting can help clear the digestive system, offering it a temporary rest, akin to rebooting a computer. This can be beneficial for frequent, profuse diarrhea episodes. During a fast, ensure constant access to fresh water, but refrain from offering any treats.
Always contact your veterinarian if your dog appears unwell, is vomiting, or if diarrhea persists for more than 24 to 48 hours.
The Effectiveness of a Bland Diet for Dogs
A bland diet is highly effective for dogs experiencing diarrhea, especially after a fasting period, provided they show no further signs of illness or vomiting. This approach is vital to avoid further upsetting their sensitive digestive system. Introducing probiotics and fiber supplements, like canned pumpkin, can also be beneficial.
The combination of fasting and a bland diet is most suitable for dogs with temporary digestive upset due to dietary indiscretions, rather than for long-term health concerns.
Implementing a Bland Diet for Dogs
If your dog appears to be recovering well and does not have a chronic health condition, introduce a small portion of a bland diet. Bland foods are easily digestible and better tolerated by a sensitive stomach. Offering small meals frequently is also easier for the body to process.
A common bland diet consists of boiled lean white meat chicken or lean hamburger mixed with rice. Boiling the meat helps to remove excess fat, creating a low-fat, easily digestible meal.
Begin with a very small amount, perhaps only a tablespoon or two, to gauge your dog’s tolerance. It’s far better to offer small, frequent meals every two to three hours than a large meal all at once, even if your dog seems eager for more.
Most veterinarians recommend a bland diet for three to five days following a mild diarrhea episode, assuming your dog is otherwise active and not experiencing other symptoms. Any dog that remains ill or is vomiting requires more intensive veterinary care.
Feeding Dogs with Mild or Acute Diarrhea
Mild diarrhea is typically defined as soft or loose stools lasting less than 48–72 hours, with the dog remaining active, eating, and drinking normally. Signs of concern include lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, or the presence of blood or mucus in the stool. Acute diarrhea begins suddenly and can range from mild to severe depending on other symptoms.
When feeding a bland diet for acute diarrhea:
- Opt for a veterinarian-prescribed bland food or a home-prepared option.
- A recommended ratio is 1:1 boiled lean meat (white meat chicken or lean hamburger) to rice.
- Start with approximately 2 tablespoons of this mixture per 10 pounds of body weight, offered every two to three hours on the first day. It’s better to underfeed initially than to overfeed.
- Over the subsequent three days, gradually increase the portion size and decrease meal frequency if the diarrhea improves.
- Between days three and five, begin to reintroduce small amounts of your dog’s regular food. By day seven, most dogs should be transitioned back to their regular diet.
If your dog’s condition worsens, they begin vomiting, or show signs of illness at any point, contact your veterinarian immediately. Consistent improvement should be observed after initiating dietary changes. Any setbacks warrant prompt veterinary consultation. You might consider options like Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN.
Dietary Considerations for Dogs with Chronic Diarrhea
Chronic diarrhea, characterized by ongoing episodes over an extended period, often signifies an underlying medical condition that requires veterinary diagnosis and treatment. Diet typically forms only one part of a comprehensive management plan.
For long-term gastrointestinal issues, prescription diets specifically formulated for dogs with diarrhea, such as Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d or Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult, may be more appropriate. These diets are nutritionally complete and balanced for long-term feeding and can sometimes be given to other healthy pets in the household after veterinary consultation.
While homemade bland diets are useful for short-term relief, they can be deficient in essential nutrients for long-term canine health. Your veterinarian can help you select the most suitable prescription food based on your dog’s specific condition.
Source: PetMD
