Diarrhea in dogs is common and can be caused by many things. Sometimes it happens because your dog has eaten something they should not have, or it may be linked to a sudden change in diet, stress, or mild illness. While a single loose stool is often nothing to worry about, ongoing diarrhea needs attention. Knowing how to care for your dog at home can help them feel better faster.
Diarrhea is the passing of loose or watery stools more often than usual. It can range from mild to severe. In most cases, mild diarrhea lasts a day or two and clears up on its own. However, it can also be a sign of infection, parasites, food allergies, or other health problems.
It is essential to watch for other symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, blood in the stool, or changes in behaviour. These may mean the problem is more serious.
One of the first things you can do is give your dog’s stomach a short rest. This usually means withholding food for 12 to 24 hours. Fresh water should still be available at all times so your dog stays hydrated.
A short fast helps the digestive system settle down. For puppies under six months or tiny dogs, fasting should be shorter because they can lose energy quickly. If you are unsure, check with your vet before starting a fast.
Once the fasting period is over, start with a bland diet. This means simple foods that are easy to digest and gentle on the stomach. A common choice is boiled chicken (without skin or bones) and plain white rice. You can also use boiled lean beef or turkey.
Feed small amounts every few hours rather than large meals. As your dog improves, you can slowly return them to their regular diet over the next few days.
If diarrhea returns when you change back to their regular food, it may be a sign of food sensitivity or allergy.
Diarrhea can cause dehydration, which is dangerous for dogs. Make sure fresh water is always available. You can also offer a small amount of low-salt chicken broth to encourage them to drink.
Signs of dehydration include dry gums, sunken eyes, and tiredness. If you notice these, contact your vet immediately.
Probiotics are supplements that help restore healthy bacteria in your dog’s gut. They can be bought in powder, capsule, or chew form. Some dog foods also contain probiotics. Adding these to your dog’s recovery plan can help the digestive system return to normal faster.
Sometimes diarrhea can be linked to stress. Changes in routine, new surroundings, or loud noises can upset a dog’s stomach. If this could be the cause, try to keep your dog’s environment calm and predictable while they recover.
Giving them extra comfort, gentle walks, and quiet rest time can make a big difference.
When treating diarrhea at home, it is essential not to give human medicines unless advised by a vet. Some medications that are safe for people can be harmful to dogs. Also, avoid giving fatty or highly seasoned foods, as these can make diarrhea worse.
While many cases of diarrhea are mild and improve within a day or two, some situations need professional care.
These signs may point to a more serious condition that needs medical treatment.
Once your dog recovers, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of it happening again. Keep their diet consistent, avoid giving table scraps, and introduce any new foods slowly. Make sure they do not have access to rubbish or spoiled food. Regular vet check-ups and parasite control can also help keep their digestive system healthy.
Diarrhea in dogs can be worrying, but with the proper care, most mild cases improve within a couple of days. Simple home treatment steps like resting the stomach, offering a bland diet, keeping your dog hydrated, and using probiotics can help them recover quickly.
If your dog’s symptoms last more than two days, get worse, or are paired with other signs like vomiting or blood in the stool, contact your vet straight away. Train Walk Poop cares about keeping dogs healthy and happy. For more tips or advice, contact us at 801-613-1364. We are here to help you give your dog the best care possible.
