Dealing with a dog that has diarrhea can be a stressful experience for any pet owner. You’re likely wondering what should a dog with diarrhea eat to help them recover quickly. This article will explore the best dietary strategies to soothe your dog’s upset tummy and get them back on track to good health. We’ll cover everything from gentle food choices to when you might need to call a vet.
Understanding Why Your Dog Has Diarrhea
Before we dive into what should a dog eat with diarrhea, it’s crucial to understand the possible causes of this common canine ailment. Diarrhea can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:
- Dietary Indiscretion: Eating something they shouldn’t, like garbage or spoiled food.
- Sudden Diet Changes: Switching food brands or formulas too quickly can disrupt their digestive system.
- Food Allergies or Intolerances: Some dogs react poorly to certain ingredients.
- Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can wreak havoc on their digestive tract.
- Stress or Anxiety: Just like humans, dogs can develop digestive issues from stress.
- Medications: Some medications can cause diarrhea as a side effect.
- Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions like pancreatitis or inflammatory bowel disease can lead to chronic diarrhea.
Determining the underlying cause is essential for effective treatment, so observing any other symptoms alongside the diarrhea is always good.
The BRAT Diet for Dogs: A Gentle Start
When your dog has diarrhea, it’s best to start with a bland diet to give their digestive system a break. You might have heard of the BRAT diet for humans (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast), and a similar principle applies to dogs. However, we’ll tweak it slightly.
- Cooked White Rice: This is gentle on the stomach and easy to digest. Ensure it is plain, without any added seasonings or oils.
- Plain Boiled Chicken or Turkey: Lean protein sources are vital for recovery. Remove the skin and any bones before feeding.
- Boiled Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: These provide easily digestible carbohydrates and are good alternatives to rice. Make sure they are thoroughly cooked and unseasoned.
- Plain Pumpkin (Puree, Not Pie Filling): This is a great source of soluble fiber which can help solidify loose stools.
“In my years of experience, a bland diet is usually the first step in resolving mild cases of diarrhea,” says Dr. Emily Carter, a renowned veterinary nutritionist. “It allows the dog’s digestive system to rest and recover.”
Preparing the Bland Diet
Here’s how to prepare a bland diet for your dog:
- Boil plain white rice until it’s very soft.
- Boil or bake boneless, skinless chicken or turkey until fully cooked. Shred the meat into small, manageable pieces.
- If using potatoes or sweet potatoes, boil until they are very tender.
- Mix the rice, protein, and mashed potatoes/sweet potatoes together.
- Add a tablespoon of plain pumpkin puree to the meal if available.
- Start with small portions to avoid overwhelming their digestive system, and offer it to your dog 3-4 times a day.
How Much To Feed
When starting a bland diet, it’s crucial to feed your dog small, frequent meals. Here’s a general guideline:
- For small dogs (under 20 lbs): Start with 1/4 cup of the bland diet mix, 3-4 times a day.
- For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Start with 1/2 cup of the bland diet mix, 3-4 times a day.
- For large dogs (over 50 lbs): Start with 3/4 to 1 cup of the bland diet mix, 3-4 times a day.
Observe your dog’s response and adjust the portions accordingly. If they seem to tolerate it well, you can gradually increase the portion size.
What to Avoid When Your Dog Has Diarrhea
Just as important as what should a dog eat with diarrhea is what they should not eat. It’s crucial to avoid foods that can exacerbate their digestive issues.
- Fatty Foods: These are difficult for a dog’s digestive system to process and can worsen diarrhea.
- Dairy Products: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, and dairy can cause further stomach upset.
- Seasoned or Flavored Foods: Spices, salt, and other seasonings can irritate their digestive system.
- Table Scraps: These often contain ingredients that are not suitable for dogs.
- Rawhide Chews or Bones: These can be difficult to digest and can pose a choking hazard.
Introducing Food Back Gradually
Once your dog’s diarrhea seems to be improving, you can begin to gradually reintroduce their regular food. This process should be slow and methodical. Here’s how to do it:
- Day 1-2: Mix 25% of their regular food with 75% of the bland diet.
- Day 3-4: Mix 50% of their regular food with 50% of the bland diet.
- Day 5-6: Mix 75% of their regular food with 25% of the bland diet.
- Day 7: If all goes well, you can switch back to 100% of their regular food.
If at any point during the transition, your dog’s diarrhea worsens, revert back to the previous stage and give them more time to adjust. It might also be a sign that they’re intolerant to their regular food, in which case you may need to try a food with a limited ingredient list.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
While mild diarrhea can often be managed at home with dietary adjustments, some situations require veterinary attention. It’s important to know what to do if your dog eats ice melt or other toxic substances, but here are some additional warning signs:
- Diarrhea lasting more than 24-48 hours: Persistent diarrhea needs to be assessed by a vet.
- Bloody or black, tarry stools: This indicates serious internal problems.
- Lethargy or weakness: This could suggest severe dehydration or a more serious underlying issue.
- Vomiting alongside diarrhea: This can lead to rapid dehydration.
- Loss of appetite: If your dog refuses food for an extended period, it’s a concern.
- Fever: This can indicate an infection that requires medical treatment.
- Visible worms in stools: This can indicate an infestation that needs to be treated.
“Don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian if your dog shows any signs of dehydration, lethargy, or severe diarrhea,” advises Dr. Michael Thompson, a veterinary gastroenterologist. “Early intervention can make a significant difference in your dog’s recovery.”
Probiotics for Digestive Health
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore balance to your dog’s gut microbiome. They can be a valuable addition to your dog’s recovery plan. Here’s why:
- Promote Good Bacteria: Probiotics help repopulate the gut with good bacteria, which can be diminished by diarrhea.
- Improve Digestion: They help improve digestive health and nutrient absorption.
- Reduce Inflammation: Some probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe an irritated gut.
You can find dog-specific probiotics in the form of chews, powders, or capsules. It’s always best to consult your vet before introducing new supplements to your dog’s diet.
Hydration Is Key
Dehydration is a significant concern when dogs have diarrhea. Make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water at all times. If they seem reluctant to drink, you can try the following:
- Add Flavor to Water: Try adding a small amount of low-sodium chicken or beef broth to their water to encourage them to drink.
- Offer Ice Cubes: Some dogs prefer to lick ice cubes.
- Use a Pet Water Fountain: Some pets are more motivated to drink from a fountain than a bowl.
- Electrolyte solutions for dogs: Your vet might recommend electrolyte solutions designed for dogs to aid in replenishing lost fluids and minerals.
Preventative Measures
Once your dog has recovered, it’s important to take preventative measures to avoid future bouts of diarrhea. Consider the following:
- Slow Diet Transitions: If you need to switch your dog’s food, do so slowly, gradually introducing the new food over 5-7 days.
- Limited Ingredient Diet: If your dog has recurring diarrhea, they might benefit from a diet with a limited number of ingredients.
- Avoid Table Scraps: Resist the urge to feed your dog human food, especially those that are high in fat or seasoned.
- Keep Trash Secured: Ensure your trash cans are securely closed and out of your dog’s reach to prevent them from scavenging.
Remember, what should my dog eat if he has diarrhea is a common question, and understanding how to manage their diet is key to recovery and preventing future problems.
Conclusion
Managing a dog’s diarrhea can seem daunting, but with the right approach, you can help your furry friend feel better soon. Remember, what should dogs eat if they have diarrhea involves a gentle approach to their diet. Starting with a bland diet, slowly transitioning back to their regular food, and ensuring proper hydration are vital steps in their recovery. If you are unsure, it’s always best to consult with a professional. Always monitor their symptoms and never hesitate to contact your vet if things don’t improve. By doing so, you’ll contribute to your dog’s overall well-being and keep them happy and healthy for years to come.
FAQ
Q: Can I give my dog yogurt when they have diarrhea?
A: While some yogurts contain probiotics, dairy can upset a dog’s stomach. Stick to plain chicken and rice. You could incorporate dog-specific probiotics, but always check with your vet first.
Q: How long should my dog be on a bland diet when they have diarrhea?
A: Usually, 2-3 days of a bland diet is sufficient for mild diarrhea. It’s important to follow the transition guidelines when reintroducing their regular food. If diarrhea persists longer, consult your vet.
Q: Can I give my dog Pepto-Bismol for diarrhea?
A: No, Pepto-Bismol is not safe for dogs. Some human medications can be toxic to them. Always stick to vet-approved medications.
Q: Is pumpkin good for dogs with diarrhea?
A: Yes, plain pumpkin puree is a great source of soluble fiber which can help to solidify loose stools. But make sure it is 100% pumpkin puree and not pie filling, which often includes spices and sugars that can be harmful.
Q: My dog’s diarrhea is very frequent, should I be concerned?
A: Yes, frequent or severe diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, which is especially dangerous. If your dog’s diarrhea is happening very often or is bloody, seek veterinary care immediately. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Q: What if my dog refuses to eat the bland diet?
A: Sometimes dogs are picky eaters. Try warming the food to make it more appealing or hand-feed small portions. If your dog still refuses to eat, consult your veterinarian as a lack of appetite alongside diarrhea can be a cause for concern.
Q: Are there certain dog breeds more prone to diarrhea?
A: While no specific breed is universally prone to diarrhea, some breeds with sensitive digestive systems, like [what can mini schnauzers not eat], might experience diarrhea more frequently. However, each dog is unique, and paying close attention to their specific needs is essential.