Diarrhea in dogs may be a cause of concern for you, but in most cases, it can be cured with home remedies. If your dog is having loose stools, you may be wondering, “What can I give my dog to stop diarrhea?” This exclusive guide will give you the full details of effective solutions, dietary suggestions, and when to contact a vet.
Common causes of diarrhea in dogs
Before treating your dog’s diarrhea, it is first important to understand its causes. Some of the common causes can be the following:
- Sudden change in dog food
- Dog-eating spoiled or unknown food
- Bacterial or viral infection
- Dog food allergy or intolerance
- Stress or anxiety
- Parasites such as worms or giardia
- Medications or antibiotics
What can I give my dog to stop diarrhea?
1. 12-24 hour fast
If any dog has mild diarrhea, not feeding it for about 12 to 24 hours can help heal its digestive system. However, make sure to give it fresh and clean water to prevent dehydration.
2. Plain white rice
This is one of the most recommended foods for diarrhea is plain boiled white rice. It is very easily digestible and also helps in hardening the dog’s stool. Give it without any spices or oil.
3. Pumpkin puree
Plain canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) is rich in fiber and helps regulate the dog’s digestion. It can be mixed with food.
| Dog’s Weight | Pumpkin Serving Size |
|---|---|
| Under 15 lbs | 1 teaspoon |
| 15-30 lbs | 1-2 teaspoons |
| Over 30 lbs | 1-2 tablespoons |
4. Boiled Chicken and Rice
Boiled boneless chicken and white rice also helps soothe a dog’s digestion. Give this to your dog in small portions throughout the day.
5. Probiotics and Yogurt
You should know that probiotics increase good bacteria. You can give safe probiotics for dogs or a spoonful of plain, unsweetened yogurt to restore the balance of the dog’s gut.
6. Bone Broth for Hydration
Homemade bone broth is rich in nutrients and keeps the dog hydrated. It also promotes his appetite.
7. Slippery Elm Bark
This natural supplement coats the dog’s digestive system and also reduces inflammation. Slippery elm bark powder can also be mixed with food or water. Consult your veterinarian for the correct dosage.
8. Over-the-counter medications (only with your vet’s advice!)
Many vets may also recommend small doses of kaolin-pectin (such as Pro-Pectalin) or Pepto-Bismol. However, be sure to consult your vet before giving any medications to your dog.
When to see a vet?
Mild dog diarrhea usually resolves within 24 to 48 hours, but in some cases, it requires your vet. Contact your vet immediately if your dog shows the following symptoms:
- Bloody or black stools
- Diarrhea lasts for more than 48 hours
- The dog vomits along with the diarrhea
- Signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy)
- He has a fever or extreme weakness
How to stop diarrhea in dogs?
Follow these preventive measures to prevent your dog from having digestive problems in the future:
| Prevention Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Introduce new food gradually | Prevents stomach upset |
| Avoid table scraps | Reduces exposure to harmful foods |
| Keep your dog hydrated | Prevents dehydration |
| Deworm regularly | Protects against parasites |
| Provide probiotics | Supports healthy digestion |
FAQs: What Can I Give My Dog to Stop Diarrhea?
Can I give my dog Imodium?
Only on the advice of a veterinarian. Imodium can be dangerous for certain breeds and health conditions.
How long should I withhold food in case of dog diarrhea?
In mild cases, fasting for 12-24 hours is safe. Always keep water available to prevent dehydration.
Is rice or pumpkin better for dog diarrhea?
Both are beneficial. Rice helps bind stool, while pumpkin provides fiber that regulates digestion. You can also give both of them together.
What to do if my dog’s diarrhea does not stop?
If diarrhea persists for more than 48 hours, contact the veterinarian immediately.
What is Good to Give a Dog with Diarrhea?
By adopting all these measures and contacting your veterinarian at the right time, you can make your sweet and loyal friend healthy soon. Always monitor the dog’s symptoms and provide proper dog food to maintain the digestive system.