Diarrhea is a common digestive issue in dogs that may be due to various causes, such as stress or parasites.
If your pup is suffering from mild diarrhea, there are a few things you can do at home to help settle their stomach.
Fasting your pet by withholding food for 12 to 24 hours helps their digestive tract recover from the initial upset. Feeding them a bland diet of cooked white rice mixed with either boiled chicken or low-fat hamburger may also be an option.
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Rest and Fasting
Most dogs will quickly recover from minor gastrointestinal upsets like diarrhea. However, if your pup’s symptoms persist or worsen, it is best to visit a veterinarian.
Your vet will conduct a comprehensive history, physical examination and diagnostic testing to accurately diagnose the cause of your dog’s diarrhea. They then prescribe the safest and most effective treatment option for your furry friend.
Diarrhea is a relatively common complaint, but it could indicate something more serious than just some stomach upset. This could be an indication of food allergy or even worse problems like cancer or an indigestible object stuck in your dog’s stomach.
Diarrhea in dogs often responds best to rest and fasting for a period of time. This allows your pup’s body to heal itself and eliminate any toxins or bacteria causing their symptoms.
Chicken Broth and Rice
Chicken broth is a go-to home remedy for dogs suffering from upset stomachs. Not only does it help them recover from diarrhea, but it’s easy to make at home too – just add chicken broth!
Before trying this simple home remedy for your pup, be sure to consult with your veterinarian first. They can determine if chicken broth is safe for them and how much to give them.
Chicken broth not only aids your dog in recovering from diarrhea, but it also contains essential nutrients. It’s an excellent source of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus.
Furthermore, it helps improve joint health and encourages hydration.
When your dog is feeling unwell, you can add some rice to his chicken broth for added benefit and speedy recovery. This trick works especially well with puppies.
Probiotics
Probiotics are an excellent way to boost your pup’s immune system and prevent diarrhea. They come in various forms, like powders, chews, liquids and more – some even come with dog-friendly flavors like chicken or beef!
Probiotics contain beneficial bacteria that help regulate digestion, prevent gastrointestinal (GI) issues and aid dogs in recovering from antibiotic treatment or other stressors. Common probiotic bacteria found in dog probiotics include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
Other strains, such as Enterococcus faecium, help manage stress-triggered diarrhea and reduce the prevalence of certain pathogens that cause it. They also possess antibacterial and antifungal activity.
In addition to digestive benefits, some probiotics may improve your dog’s mood and mental health. A study from the University of Cambridge has suggested that probiotics can increase the number of gut-brain axis microorganisms and make your pup feel more at ease, according to its researchers.
Medication
Most dogs with diarrhea will resolve on their own after a few days of bland food and rest. However, if the diarrhea lasts more than a day or two, contact your veterinarian for further assistance.
Diarrhea can often be indicative of an underlying issue, and by treating it early we can help avoid secondary complications like dehydration or even death. Your veterinarian will take a detailed history, perform a physical exam with diagnostic testing (fecal examination and radiographs), then administer safe and effective medications and supplements to assist your dog.
Bismuth subsalicylate, commonly known as Kaopectate or Pepto-Bismol, is a commonly prescribed medication for dogs and can be given orally with the correct dosage from your veterinarian.
