Diarrhea in Dogs: 6 Proven Home Remedies
Laura Evans |
December 8, 2023
94,182
One of the most common things that dog owners worry about is diarrhea. Diarrhea can be caused by various things, from dietary indiscretions to infections, and it can sometimes be a sign that something is seriously wrong with your dog.
What causes diarrhea in dogs? What if your dog has had diarrhea for days? And most importantly, how to treat diarrhea in dogs at home safely and quickly. That’s what you will learn in this article.
Different stages of diarrhea in dogs: The consistency and color of your dog’s stool can give clues about what might be happening inside their digestive system and help you determine whether or not they need help.
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Causes of Dog Diarrhea
Several different things can cause diarrhea in dogs. Some of the most common causes include:
- Dietary indiscretion: Dogs are notorious for getting into things they shouldn’t, which sometimes includes eating things that can cause diarrhea. If your dog has gotten into the garbage, eaten something off the ground, or otherwise ingested something that doesn’t agree with them, they will likely have diarrhea.
- Dietary changes: Dogs can be picky eaters, and sometimes even a small change in their diet can cause diarrhea. If you’ve recently changed your dog’s food or treats, that could cause loose stools.
- Infections: Both bacterial and viral infections can cause diarrhea in dogs. If your dog has been exposed to another sick animal, it’s possible they could have contracted a disease.
- Parasites: Intestinal parasites, such as roundworms and hookworms, commonly cause diarrhea in dogs. These parasites can be contracted in several ways, including contacting contaminated soil or water or eating infected prey.
- Stress: Dogs can experience stress for various reasons, sometimes as diarrhea. If your dog is undergoing a change in its routine, such as moving to a new home or adding a new pet to the family, that could be the cause of their diarrhea.
- Poisonous substances or plants
Home Remedies for Dog Diarrhea
A great many cases are mild and, with your vet’s advice – or a 24/7 pet helpline -, may be treated without a trip to the office.
You can do several things at home to help your dog feel better. Some home remedies for dog diarrhea include:
- Fasting: for 12 to 24 hours can clear the cause of the upset and allow the gastrointestinal tract to settle. It’s important to speak with your veterinarian first because some dogs (particularly small breeds or those with prior health conditions) cannot tolerate fasting.
- Give them plenty of fluids: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so giving your dog plenty of fluids is essential. Offer them small amounts of water or clear broth frequently throughout the day. You can also provide them with ice cubes to lick or frozen vegetables to chew on.
- Offer small, frequent meals: After the fasting period, offer them small, regular meals. This will help to avoid further upset to their stomach and intestines.
Canned Pumpkin: When fighting indigestion and diarrhea, 100% canned pumpkin is a favorite of many holistic veterinarians. It has a low glycemic index, so it slowly absorbs, which helps with upset stomach and digestion. Smaller dogs (approximately 5 pounds) can be fed one-half teaspoon of canned pumpkin, while larger dogs (approximately 75 pounds) can be fed 1 tablespoon.
Bland diet: After the fasting period, gradually introduce a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice, or a commercial prescription diet for gastrointestinal problems.
Add probiotics to their diet: Probiotics can help to restore the balance of good bacteria in your dog’s gut. You can find probiotics for dogs in some yogurts, as well as in supplement form, which can be added to your dog’s food or water.
Over-the-counter medications for humans may also be effective for doggie diarrhea but should be given with caution, and you should always consult with your vet before using them.
Methods that work for one dog may not help another, so you might need to do a little experimentation to find the right formula. Speak to your vet or a pet helpline, they may recommend the best option for your dog, and at the same time put your mind at ease.
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When to Be Concerned?
In most cases, diarrhea is not a serious health concern and will resolve on its own. However, there are some cases where you should call the vet about your dog’s diarrhea. If your dog is experiencing any of the following, you should consult with your vet:
- Diarrhea that lasts longer than 24 hours
- Blood in their stool
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration
- Vomiting
If your dog has any of these signs or if you have any doubt, contact your vet immediately or out of hours, a 24/7 pet helpline.
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Conclusion
If you are concerned about your dog’s diarrhea, it’s always best to consult with your vet or as a cheaper alternative, a 24/7 pet helpline. They can determine the cause of your dog’s diarrhea and recommend the best course of treatment. In most cases, diarrhea is not a serious health concern and will resolve on its own. Ensure that you are offering your dog plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Call your vet if you have any concerns or if diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours.
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