Dealing with a dog’s upset stomach can be stressful for any pet parent. Seeing your furry friend experiencing diarrhea is not only messy but also worrisome. You’re likely wondering, “What Food To Give Dogs When They Have Diarrhea?” This guide will walk you through the best dietary options and how to get your pup back on their paws.
Understanding Why Your Dog Has Diarrhea
Before we dive into the specifics of what to feed your dog, let’s briefly explore why diarrhea occurs. It can stem from various factors, including:
- Dietary indiscretion: Eating something they shouldn’t have, like garbage or spoiled food.
- Sudden diet changes: Switching food brands too quickly can cause tummy trouble.
- Food allergies or intolerances: Specific ingredients might trigger digestive issues.
- Parasites: Intestinal worms can cause diarrhea, among other issues.
- Infections: Viruses or bacteria can disrupt the gastrointestinal tract.
- Stress: Anxiety and stress can also affect a dog’s digestive system.
Knowing the potential causes can help you prevent future incidents. Now, let’s focus on what foods can help your dog recover.
Best Foods For Dogs With Diarrhea
When your dog has diarrhea, you need to feed them easily digestible foods that are gentle on their stomach. The goal is to allow their digestive system to rest and recover. Here’s a list of recommended foods:
Bland Diet Basics
A bland diet is often the first step in managing diarrhea. These foods are low in fat, easy to digest, and unlikely to irritate the stomach.
- Plain Boiled Chicken or Turkey: Remove all skin and bones, and boil the meat until it is thoroughly cooked. Shred or chop it up for easy consumption.
- White Rice: Cook it thoroughly until it is very soft. Avoid brown rice as it can be too fibrous and harder to digest.
- Plain Pumpkin (100% Pure): Not pumpkin pie filling! Pure pumpkin is high in fiber, which can help firm up stools.
- Boiled Potatoes (no skin): Plain, mashed, and boiled potatoes can be a good source of carbohydrates.
- Bone Broth: A good source of hydration and easy to digest. Be sure it doesn’t have any added onions or garlic, which are toxic to dogs. You can also find low-sodium versions.
Foods to Avoid
When your dog has diarrhea, it’s just as important to know what not to feed them. Avoid these foods that can worsen the condition:
- Rich and Fatty Foods: Things like fried foods, butter, or greasy meats can exacerbate diarrhea.
- Dairy Products: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, and dairy can worsen symptoms.
- Seasoned Foods: Avoid anything with spices, herbs, or sauces, as these can irritate their stomach.
- Table Scraps: Resist the urge to share your meals as they are often too rich or salty for dogs.
- Certain Human Foods: Remember, there are some specific human foods that dogs can’t have, which you should avoid entirely.
“When dealing with a dog experiencing diarrhea, keeping their diet bland and straightforward is key to their recovery. Focus on simple, easily digestible options to allow their digestive system to rest. It’s crucial to steer clear of rich, fatty, and seasoned foods which could intensify symptoms,” says Dr. Emily Carter, DVM, a veterinary nutritionist.
The Feeding Process: Tips and Guidelines
Once you’ve prepared a suitable meal, here’s how to feed your dog with diarrhea:
- Start Small: Begin by offering small, frequent meals rather than one or two large meals.
- Monitor Closely: Keep a close eye on your dog’s stool consistency and overall condition.
- Hydration is Key: Make sure your dog has constant access to fresh water, or offer bone broth to help keep them hydrated.
- Gradually Reintroduce Regular Food: After 24-48 hours on the bland diet, start mixing small amounts of their regular food back into their meals. Slowly increase the amount of regular food while decreasing the bland diet.
- Consult Your Vet: If the diarrhea persists for more than 2-3 days, or if you observe any other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, or blood in the stool, consult your veterinarian promptly.
What about commercial foods?
You might be wondering about commercial foods, and many options are specifically designed for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. Look for veterinary-recommended options that have limited ingredients and are easily digestible. These are often available in wet and dry forms and can be a great option for sensitive dogs. Remember, gradual transition to the new food is key. It’s important to understand that my dog has diarrhea what should i feed her as well, and it all comes back to giving them food that is gentle on their stomach.
Addressing Common Concerns
How long should I feed my dog a bland diet?
Typically, a bland diet is recommended for 24 to 48 hours. If your dog’s stools begin to normalize, you can slowly reintroduce their regular food. If not, or if the condition worsens, contact your vet.
Is it okay to add a little bit of salt to the bland diet?
Avoid adding any seasonings, including salt. Stick with plain, unseasoned foods to avoid further irritation.
Can I give my puppy the same foods as my adult dog?
Yes, you can use the same bland foods, but be extra cautious with portion sizes. Puppies are more vulnerable to dehydration and malnutrition, so if they have diarrhea, consulting your vet promptly is best. It is also important to remember what not to give a puppy in the first place.
How can I tell if my dog needs to see a vet?
Seek veterinary care if your dog’s diarrhea lasts more than 2-3 days, if you see blood in their stool, or if they are lethargic, vomiting, or showing other signs of illness. Always err on the side of caution.
“A crucial step in recovering a dog from diarrhea is understanding that less is more. By starting with smaller, more frequent feedings of easily digestible foods, you give their system a better chance to heal. Don’t overfeed, be patient, and always keep a watchful eye on their progress,” explains Dr. Marcus Chen, DMV, an animal GI specialist.
When to Seek Professional Help
While a bland diet is often helpful for mild cases of diarrhea, there are situations when professional help is necessary. Seek immediate veterinary attention if:
- The diarrhea lasts for more than 2-3 days.
- You see blood in the stool.
- Your dog is lethargic or unusually weak.
- They are vomiting frequently.
- There is a noticeable loss of appetite.
- They show signs of dehydration (e.g., sunken eyes, dry gums).
A veterinarian can perform tests to determine the underlying cause of the diarrhea and recommend the best treatment options. It could be something more serious, so do not hesitate to call your vet. Additionally, it is vital to understand what human food can dogs not have to help prevent future instances.
Prevention is Key
While treating diarrhea is important, preventing it in the first place is ideal. Here are some preventative measures:
- Gradual Dietary Changes: Always introduce new food slowly, mixing it with the old food over 7 to 10 days.
- Avoid Table Scraps: Don’t give in to those puppy eyes! Human food is often too rich and can upset their stomachs.
- Secure Garbage: Keep trash cans covered to prevent your dog from getting into anything they shouldn’t.
- Parasite Prevention: Follow your veterinarian’s recommendation for deworming and flea and tick prevention.
- Safe Foods: Always be mindful of what are some foods dogs can t eat and ensure they’re kept out of reach.
- Quality Food: Feed your dog high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age and breed. The best choice will depend on your dog and whether or not they have sensitivities. Remember that what can i feed my dog at home is important for the overall health of your dog.
Conclusion
Dealing with a dog’s diarrhea can be worrisome, but knowing what food to give dogs when they have diarrhea can make a huge difference in their recovery. A bland diet of boiled chicken and rice, along with plain pumpkin and bone broth, can help soothe their stomach and firm up their stool. Remember to monitor your dog closely, provide plenty of fresh water, and consult your vet if the issue persists or gets worse. By being proactive and attentive, you can help your furry friend get back to their happy, healthy self.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I give my dog yogurt to help with diarrhea?
Plain, unsweetened yogurt with live cultures may help some dogs, but many are lactose intolerant. It’s not a first-line recommendation like chicken and rice.
2. Is it normal for my dog to have diarrhea occasionally?
Occasional, mild diarrhea is not uncommon. However, persistent or severe cases require veterinary attention to rule out underlying issues.
3. How quickly should I expect my dog to recover?
With a bland diet and plenty of rest, mild cases often resolve within 24-48 hours. If not, consult a vet.
4. What if my dog refuses to eat the bland diet?
If your dog refuses a bland diet, try warming up the food or adding a tiny bit of low-sodium broth for flavor. Never force your dog to eat. Consult your vet if they aren’t eating.
5. Should I give my dog probiotics for diarrhea?
Probiotics may help in some cases, but always consult with your vet before starting any supplements.
6. Can stress cause my dog’s diarrhea?
Yes, stress can upset your dog’s digestive system and lead to diarrhea. Identify and address any stressful triggers for your dog to help manage this.