For mild diarrhea in an otherwise bright, healthy adult dog, a short bland diet of plain boiled chicken and white rice, fed in small meals, is the usual first step. If the diarrhea lasts more than a day or two, or your dog seems unwell, call your vet.
A simple bland diet
- Chicken: boiled, skinless, boneless breast meat, shredded. No seasoning, oil, butter or salt.
- Rice: plain cooked white rice (not instant flavored rice). A common mix is about one part chicken to two parts rice.
- Plain canned pumpkin: a spoonful for a small dog or a couple of spoonfuls for a large dog adds soluble fiber. Use plain pumpkin, not pie filling.
Feed small portions three or four times a day instead of one big meal, and offer plenty of fresh water. Most dogs eat the bland diet for two to three days. Then mix in their regular food gradually over several days rather than switching back all at once.
Should I skip a meal?
Some vets suggest resting a healthy adult dog’s stomach for several hours, but puppies, small breeds, seniors and dogs with other conditions should not fast without veterinary advice. When unsure, ask your vet first.
What not to feed
- Dairy, fatty foods, table scraps and fried food
- Seasoned meat, gravy and anything with onion or garlic
- Cooked bones and rawhide
- New treats or a sudden change in dog food
Call the vet if you notice
- Diarrhea lasting longer than 24 to 48 hours, or getting worse
- Blood in the stool, or black, tarry stool
- Repeated vomiting, refusal to drink, or signs of dehydration such as dry, tacky gums
- Lethargy, belly pain or a swollen belly
- Any diarrhea in a puppy, a senior dog or a dog with a medical condition
Never give human anti-diarrhea medicine or any other medication unless your vet tells you to.
Long-term digestive support
If loose stools keep coming back, ask your vet about a gastrointestinal diet. Our reviews of Royal Canin Gastrointestinal and Hill’s Digestive Care explain what those diets contain.
Bottom Line
Plain chicken and rice in small meals helps many dogs with mild diarrhea, but symptoms that last or come with other signs need a vet visit.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice.
