What to Feed Your Dog When They Have Diarrhea
When your dog has diarrhea, it's important to manage their diet carefully to help settle their stomach and avoid making the condition worse. Here are some guidelines for what to feed your dog:
1. Fasting (Initial 12-24 Hours)
- Water: Ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated. Dehydration is a significant concern with diarrhea.
- Bone Broth: Bone broth is an excellent way to rehydrate your dog while providing essential vitamins and minerals that can aid with diarrhea. Bone broth is gentle on a sensitive stomach, offering hydration and nutrients that are beneficial when your dog needs it most.
2. Bland Diet (After Fasting Period)
- Boiled White Rice: Plain, boiled white rice is easy on the stomach and can help firm up stools.
- Boiled Chicken: Skinless, boneless chicken breast is a good source of protein and is gentle on the digestive system. Ensure it's cooked thoroughly and served plain without seasoning.
- Boiled Lean Ground Turkey: Another good protein option that is easy on the stomach.
- Cottage Cheese: Low-fat, plain cottage cheese can be a good source of protein and calcium, but only if your dog tolerates dairy.
- Plain Pumpkin: Canned plain pumpkin (not the spiced pie filling) can help regulate the digestive system due to its high fiber content.
3. Gradual Reintroduction to Regular Diet
- After your dog’s stools begin to firm up, you can slowly start to reintroduce their regular diet. Mix a small amount of their regular food with the bland diet and gradually increase the proportion of regular food over several days.
4. Probiotics
- Probiotic Supplements: These can help restore the balance of healthy bacteria in your dog's gut. Consult your vet for the best option.
- Yogurt: Plain, unsweetened yogurt with live active cultures can be beneficial, but make sure your dog isn't lactose intolerant.
5. Avoid Certain Foods
- Dairy Products: Unless it's plain yogurt or cottage cheese in small amounts, avoid dairy as it can worsen diarrhea.
- Fatty Foods: Avoid fatty meats and oils, as these can exacerbate gastrointestinal upset.
- Seasoned Foods: Any foods with spices, seasoning, or sauces should be avoided.
6. Monitoring and Veterinary Care
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your dog's condition. If diarrhea persists for more than 48 hours, or if your dog shows signs of dehydration, lethargy, vomiting, or if there is blood in the stool, contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Veterinarian Advice: Always consult your vet before starting any new diet, especially if your dog has a pre-existing condition or is on medication.
These steps should help manage your dog's diarrhea and get them back to their usual self.