Dog diarrhea can often be indicative of an underlying illness, so it’s essential to know what steps can be taken to help your pup recover. Mild cases usually clear up on their own within a day or two; however, if your puppy seems unwell or has been vomiting continuously for more than 24 hours, then veterinary attention should be sought immediately.
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Feed a bland diet
A bland diet is easy to digest and low in fat, helping soothe a dog’s upset stomach. Typically, it includes protein sources like chicken or rice as well as simple carbohydrate sources like boiled potatoes.
Dogs with diarrhea may benefit from high-fiber food such as pumpkin. It helps bulk up stools and regulate their frequency, so your pup’s bowel movements will return to normal.
Maintaining your puppy’s hydration while on a bland diet is essential. Be sure they always have plenty of water available to drink; otherwise, they may experience vomiting and diarrhea again or have low blood sugar levels.
If your dog’s diarrhea isn’t resolved after trying a bland diet, contact your veterinarian for assistance. They can run tests to identify the source of their discomfort and prescribe medications if necessary.
Fast for 12 to 24 hours
Diarrhea can often be helped by a brief fast of 12 to 24 hours, which gives the gut an opportunity to rest. During this time, give your pup plenty of water and a bland diet.
Rice and broth are two common foods to give your dog during a fast. Not only are these low in calories, but they can also provide some essential minerals.
During the fasting period, it is important to monitor your dog’s water intake. If they appear dehydrated, add more liquid into their bowl.
Once your dog has completed their 24-hour fast, they can gradually begin eating again. It’s best to do this gradually rather than forcing food back in too quickly as this could make the diarrhea worse.
Diarrhea can be caused by many things, from toxic exposure to parasite infestation. If your pet experiences loose stools for more than a day or two, it’s time to take them to the veterinarian.
Give probiotics
Dogs’ digestive tracts are similar to humans’, so they may occasionally experience diarrhea. While this condition usually resolves on its own, some dogs require additional treatments in order to eliminate the illness and restore their health.
Giving your dog a probiotic supplement can help relieve diarrhea and other digestive problems. It also strengthens their immunity, increases energy levels, and enhances moods.
When selecting probiotics for your dog, consult with your veterinarian first. They will know which ones are suitable for your pup.
Probiotic supplements for dogs generally don’t cause any side effects and should be given without concern. However, if your pup experiences any negative reactions such as gas, bloating or diarrhea while on the supplement, then it is best to stop giving it and consult with a veterinarian.
Probiotics work in the gut to create a balanced balance of beneficial bacteria and harmful bacteria. Common types include lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacterium animalis.
Give pedialyte
Diarrhea is a common cause of dehydration in puppies, and oral rehydration solutions can help your pup stay hydrated. These solutions contain water, sugar and mineral salts to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes during diarrhea.
Rehydration drinks like Pedialyte can be bought over the counter in liquid and freezie forms as well as powders that must be mixed with water for consumption.
When selecting a rehydration drink, look for products with the proper balance of sodium and sugar to replenish fluids and electrolytes. These can help prevent dehydration in people who are sick or experiencing hot weather.
Popular hydration drinks include Pedialyte and Gatorade. Both come in various concentrations, with Pedialyte being more widely used for rehydration purposes.
