When a dog has diarrhea, it can be a stressful experience for both the pet and its owners. Diarrhea in dogs is an abnormal condition that a variety of internal and external factors such as dietary indiscretion, parasites, allergies, infections, or stress can cause. As such, it is important to determine the underlying cause, as that will help guide the best treatment for the problem.
In the meantime, it is essential to manage the dog’s diet to help manage the symptoms of diarrhea. Particularly, providing a diet that is easy to digest and provides the right nutrition can be helpful in controlling diarrhea and getting the pet back to normal. This article will discuss some of the best food options for a dog with diarrhea.
What To Feed A Dog With Diarrhea: Foods To Try
- Boiled Chicken
- White Rice
- Canned Pumpkin
- Boiled White Fish
- Bananas
- Carrots
- Plain Yogurt
- Sweet Potatoes
- Boiled Potatoes
- Cottage Cheese
- Oatmeal
- Rice Cakes
Boiled Chicken
Boiled chicken is often the best food choice for a dog with diarrhea as it is low in fat, full of protein, and easy to digest. To prepare boiled chicken for a dog with diarrhea it is important to remove any skin and fat from the meat, as these are more difficult for a dog’s digestive system to break down. Place the chicken in a pot of water and bring to a low boil. Cook the chicken until it is completely done, usually 3-4 minutes per ounce. Once finished, drain the liquid from the pot, and then let the chicken cool until it can be easily handled by humans. Once cooled, it is important to discard any bones, as they can cause a choking hazard. Shred or cut the boiled chicken into small strips or cubes for easy consumption. Once prepared, the chicken can be administered to the dog and mixed with other bland or digestive foods as recommended by your veterinarian.
White Rice
White Rice is an excellent food for a dog with diarrhea. It is easily digested and provides an energy source to help the dog recover. When prepared correctly, it can help to absorb water and electrolytes from digested food, and it has minerals and vitamins that can help to repair any damaged cells in the digestive tract.
To prepare white rice for a dog with diarrhea, start by rinsing the grain until the water runs clear. This is important to ensure the rice is free from mold, pesticides, and other potentially harmful contaminants. Then, measure out the desired amount of rice and allow it to soak in lukewarm water for 20 minutes. This will ensure the rice is fully hydrated and will also help to help leech out any additional toxins.
Next, cook the rice using either a stove or a pressure cooker. Generally, 1 cup of uncooked rice will produce around 3-4 cups of cooked white rice. Once the rice is cooked, strain and remove the liquid and mix the cooked rice with a meaty broth or even plain wet dog food. It is important to not add too much-added fat or salt to the mixture, as this could worsen diarrhea.
Canned Pumpkin
Canned pumpkin is a great way to help a dog with diarrhea. It contains high amounts of dietary fiber, which helps to slow down digestion and aid in forming bulkier stools. Additionally, canned pumpkin is free of added sugar, salt, and other preservatives that can make diarrhea worse.
To prepare a canned pumpkin for your dog, start by opening the can and scooping out the desired amount of pumpkin. Depending on your dog’s size and usual diet, generally half a can for medium to larger dogs and a quarter of a can for smaller dogs is a good starting point. You can mix the canned pumpkin in with your dog’s usual kibble, canned food, or cooked meat. If you don’t have any of those on hand, you can feed your pup the canned pumpkin as is.
For dogs dealing with longer bouts of diarrhea, it may be beneficial to add canned pumpkin into their regular diet each day. To do this, mix a spoonful or two of canned pumpkin into their meals and gradually add more over time. This can help regulate your dog’s stools and solidify them if the diarrhea persists.
Boiled White Fish
Boiled White Fish is one of the best food options for dogs with diarrhea. It is low in fat, high in protein, contains omega-3 fatty acids, and has several other beneficial vitamins and minerals. Whitefish is also very easily digestible, which can help reduce further upset to the dog’s digestive system.
To prepare a healthy meal of boiled white fish for your pup, start by selecting a fish without any added salt, preservatives, and flavorings. Rinse off the fish and pat it dry. Once it has been prepped, bring a pot of water to a boil. Place the fish in the boiling water and reduce the heat to a low simmer. Allow the fish to cook for 8-10 minutes, or until it is cooked through. Remove the fish from the water and use a fork to break it up into small pieces. Let it cool before feeding it to your pup.
Bananas
Bananas are a great food option for dogs with diarrhea because they contain valuable vitamins and minerals, and their high-water content can help rehydrate the dog’s body and restore electrolytes that are lost in episodes of diarrhea. Additionally, the pectin in bananas is thought to soothe the digestive tract. Bananas also have a mild taste, making them an appealing food choice for pet owners.
To prepare bananas for a dog with diarrhea, start by washing and peeling a ripe banana. Cut the banana into small, bite-sized pieces or mash it with a fork, depending on the dog’s preference. The banana should be served as-is or added as an ingredient to the dog’s food. If the dog is vomiting, it is best to avoid adding the banana until their vomiting has subsided. If the diarrhea is severe, it may be best to skip adding the banana to the food and instead feed it as a snack on its own.
Carrots
Carrots are a great food option for a dog with diarrhea because they are high in dietary fiber, which helps slow down digestion and can ease the symptoms of diarrhea. Carrots are also low in fat, high in vitamin A, and provide important minerals like potassium and phosphorus, making them excellent, nutrient-rich food for dogs.
To prepare carrots for your dog, start by washing them well to remove any dirt. You can then chop the carrots into small pieces, depending on the size of your dog. Boiling the carrots for several minutes is recommended to make sure they are soft and easy to digest. If you’d like, you can also cook the carrots with a bit of bone broth for added flavor and nutrition.
Once the carrots are cooked, you can either feed them to your pup as-is or stir in a bit of organic plain yogurt for additional probiotic benefits. Be sure to adjust the portion size to your dog’s size and activity level, and be sure to offer plenty of fresh water.
Plain Yogurt
Plain yogurt is an excellent food option for dogs with diarrhea because it helps soothe an upset stomach and is rich in beneficial probiotics. Plain yogurt also contains calcium, potassium, and other beneficial electrolytes that can help regulate the digestive system. In addition, plain yogurt is one of the few low-fat foods that can be safely fed to dogs. To prepare plain yogurt for a dog with diarrhea, mix 1/4 cup of plain yogurt with 1/4 cup of boiled water and 1 teaspoon of honey. Serve this mixture cold or warm, but make sure the yogurt is not too hot for your dog to tolerate. You can also add plain yogurt to your pup’s regular food for added flavor and nutrition. However, never give your dog flavored or sweetened yogurt as this can exacerbate gastrointestinal issues.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a great food option for dogs with diarrhea, as they are easy to digest and provide important nutrients. Sweet potatoes are high in dietary fiber, which can help absorb excess fluids in the gut and improve the digestive process. They are also rich in vitamins A and E, both of which are essential for overall health. Plus, they are low in fat, making them perfect for dogs that need to manage their weight.
To prepare sweet potatoes for a dog with diarrhea, peel and cut them into small cubes. Place them in a pot of boiling water and boil until they are soft about 15 minutes. Then, strain the cubes and run them through a food processor or mash them by hand. You can then add a small amount of liquid, such as chicken broth, to make a puree. If your dog needs additional calories, add a bit of butter or oil. Serve the puree warm and use it within three days.
Boiled Potatoes
Boiled potatoes are an excellent food option for dogs with diarrhea due to their bland flavor and ability to help bind loose stools. Boiling potatoes results in softer and easily digestible potato chunks that can help prevent further irritations in a dog’s digestive tract.
To prepare boiled potatoes for a dog with diarrhea, start by washing and peeling 1-2 large potatoes, depending on the size of your dog. Cut the potatoes into small chunks and place them in a pot of cold water. Place the pot over high heat and bring it to a boil. Once the potatoes are boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let them simmer for around 15 minutes. Test a piece in the middle to make sure it is soft. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain the pot and mash the softened potatoes with a fork.
Although the boiled potatoes can be served as is, some pet owners may want to add other nutritious ingredients to make sure their pup has all the nourishment they need. Adding cooked lean ground beef, cooked chicken or turkey, ground flaxseed, pumpkin puree, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or an egg can boost the nutritional value of the potatoes.
Mix the boiled potatoes with the desired ingredient until it is evenly combined. Place the mixture on a plate and let it cool off until it is lukewarm. Softer-boiled potatoes are often preferred for dogs with sensitive stomachs or diarrhea, but pet owners may also lightly pan-fry the potatoes in a bit of olive oil or coconut oil. Serve the potatoes to your pup one or two pieces at a time.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a great food option for a dog with diarrhea, as it is easy to digest and contains important vitamins and minerals. It is packed with protein, which can help support your pup’s muscle mass while they are under the weather, and it is also low in fat, which can help to regulate delicate digestive systems. Furthermore, it is extremely palatable which makes it an excellent choice for dogs who might not be particularly eager to eat.
When preparing cottage cheese for your pup it is important to remember to stick to plain varieties. This means that it should not have any added sugar, flavoring, or preservatives. Avoid flavored, processed, or sweetened varieties, as they can aggravate digestive issues.
If you are preparing cottage cheese for your dog you can feed it to them in its plain, raw form. However, if your pup is having trouble with digestion, you might also want to consider blending it into a smoother consistency. To do this, simply add a few tablespoons of cottage cheese to a food processor and blend until it is creamy, then add this mixture to your pup’s food.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a great food option for a dog with diarrhea because it is extremely digestible and provides many health benefits such as helping to regulate blood sugar and reduce inflammation. It is also high in fiber which can absorb excess fluids from the gut and help solidify diarrhea.
To prepare oatmeal for your dog, start by bringing 1 part old-fashioned oats and 2 parts water to a simmer in a large pot. Once the oatmeal is cooked and thickened, let cool for a few minutes. You can either feed it plain or mix in a few tablespoons of plain boiled or roasted chicken or lean ground beef to make it more palatable.
When serving, portion out 1/4 cup of oatmeal per 15-20 pounds of body weight. Add more water if needed to help thin it out. Start with one meal per day and adjust based on how your dog responds. Avoid adding any seasonings, salt, or sugar as this can irritate an already upset stomach.
Rice Cakes
Rice cakes can be an effective food option for dogs with diarrhea. They’re low in fat and contain very little added sugar, making them unlikely to aggravate an already delicate digestive system. They’re also high in complex carbohydrates, which can help to absorb some of the extra fluid in a dog’s system and can help firm up their stool.
When feeding your dog rice cakes, opt for plain varieties; avoid any that have been pre-sweetened or flavored. To prepare, simply crumble one or two into small pieces and serve them as a snack or topper for their regular meals. You can also add a bit of cooked white or brown rice to the mixture. This is an important step as it adds texture and makes the cake easier to digest.
When preparing rice cakes for your pup, make sure to cook them thoroughly as uncooked rice can be a choking hazard. You can cook them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you have more time, you can even cook them in larger pieces, which will last longer and take an even longer time to digest.
To ensure optimal nutrition for your pup, you can also add other healthy ingredients like cooked canned pumpkin, cooked sweet potatoes, or cooked mashed carrots to their rice cakes. This will provide your pup with the vitamins and minerals they may not get from other food sources.
Best Dry Fog Food for Diarrhea
- Applesauce
- Bananas
- Rice
- Boiled Potatoes
- Boiled Chicken
- Toast
- Crackers
- Oatmeal
- Popsicles
What 12 Foods Stop Diarrhea?
- Bananas
- Rice
- Applesauce
- Toast
- Plain oatmeal
- Boiled potatoes
- Plain crackers
- Baked Chicken
- Turkey
- Carrot or celery sticks
- Broth
- Yogurt
What Can I Give My Dog to Stop Diarrhea Fast?
It is important to determine the underlying cause of your dog’s diarrhea before providing any remedy. If the cause is an infection or other illness, please contact your veterinarian right away. If your veterinarian approves, you may try feeding your pup a bland diet of plain, boiled chicken and white rice to help stop diarrhea. You may also give your pup a probiotic such as Fortiflora or Proviable, a canine electrolyte fluid, and banana or canned pumpkin can also help firm up the stool.
What Home Remedy Can I Give My Dog for Diarrhea?
- White rice and boiled chicken: Cook 1/4 cup of white rice and one piece of boiled chicken (without any seasoning). Mix the ingredients together and feed your dog in small amounts a few times a day.
- Pumpkin: Adding a spoonful of canned pumpkin or fresh pureed pumpkin to your dog’s food can help firm up his stool.
- Bananas: Bananas are a natural source of pectin, which can help with diarrhea. Feed your dog a mashed banana or two to help bind his stool.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adding a few drops of apple cider vinegar to your dog’s water can help regulate the bacteria in his intestines.
- Bone broth: Bone broth can help soothe the digestive tract and can provide a healthy source of electrolytes.
- Coconut oil: This natural remedy helps boost the immune system and can provide relief from diarrhea. Feed your dog 1 teaspoon of coconut oil per 10 pounds of body weight.
Homemade Dog Food for Diarrhea
- Soft-boiled chicken and cottage cheese.
- Ground turkey and brown rice.
- Plain unsweetened yogurt and oatmeal.
- Boiled white fish and boiled potato.
- Cooked Lean Ground Beef and White Rice.
- Cooked Carrots, Pumpkin, and Sweet Potato.
FAQs
Q. What food can I give my dog for diarrhea?
A. Probiotic yogurt and cooked white rice are two foods that can be given to dogs with diarrhea. Other recommended dietary options include boiled chicken, boiled white fish, and boiled vegetables like sweet potatoes, yams, green beans, and squash.
Q. What food will firm up dog poop?
A. Veterinarians typically recommend a diet high in fiber to firm up dog poop. Foods that are high in fiber include cooked sweet potatoes, cooked oats, and ground pumpkin.
Q. Are eggs good for dogs with diarrhea?
A. Yes. Eggs are a good source of protein and can help settle a dog’s digestive system.
Q. How much rice to feed a dog with diarrhea?
A. A one-cup serving of cooked white rice is usually sufficient for feeding a dog with diarrhea.
Q. How long to wait to feed the dog after diarrhea?
A. Most veterinarians recommend holding off dog food for 12-24 hours after diarrhea has stopped. After that, gradually reintroduce food in small amounts over time.
Q. Should You Feed Dogs That Have Diarrhea?
A. No, it is important to withhold food for 12-24 hours to allow the digestive system to rest and heal.
Q. Does a Bland Diet Work for Dogs With Diarrhea?
A. Yes, a bland diet can help manage symptoms of diarrhea in dogs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, feeding a dog with diarrhea can be difficult. As with most digestive conditions, diet can play a large role in alleviating symptoms. High-fiber foods, bland diets, and conservative feeding of novel proteins all play a role in helping to manage your dog’s condition. However, if symptoms persist, it is always best to consult your veterinarian in order to ensure that your dog is receiving the necessary care and nutrition needed for the best health outcomes.