When you discover that dreaded soft, liquidy pile under your kitchen table or on your favorite rug, you immediately start wondering what to feed a dog with diarrhea to get them back to normal. As a veterinarian who has treated countless cases of canine digestive upset, I can tell you that knowing what to feed a dog with diarrhea can make the difference between a quick recovery and a prolonged illness. While commercial foods like The Honest Kitchen offer convenient options for sensitive stomachs, and budget-friendly brands like Pure Balance provide gentle formulations, sometimes you need immediate home solutions. The key to successfully managing what to feed a dog with diarrhea lies in understanding the underlying causes and implementing the right feeding protocol. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my proven 3-day recovery method that has helped thousands of dogs, plus the specific remedies I use in my practice when determining what to feed a dog with diarrhea for the fastest relief possible.
What to Feed Your Dog When They Have Diarrhea: Expert Advice from Your Vet
The first thing you need to understand about what to feed a dog with diarrhea is that timing and approach matter more than specific foods. In my veterinary practice, I’ve developed a systematic approach that addresses both immediate symptom relief and underlying digestive healing.
The 3-Day Recovery Protocol:
Day 1 – Complete Food Rest: Stop all food for 24 hours. This allows the intestines to rest and regenerate. Many pet parents panic at this step, but adult dogs can safely fast for 24 hours as long as they’re drinking water.
Day 2 – Bland Diet Introduction: After 24 hours, introduce plain cooked white rice. Feed the equivalent number of cups of rice as you would their normal diet.
Day 3 – Gradual Transition: Mix half regular diet with half bland diet. By the end of day 3, most dogs should be back on their normal diet.
This protocol works because it gives the digestive system time to heal while gradually reintroducing normal digestion patterns.
Common Reasons Dogs Get Diarrhea
Understanding why dogs develop diarrhea helps you choose the right feeding approach. In my practice, I categorize diarrhea causes into several main categories:
Dietary Indiscretions: This is the most common cause I see. Dogs eating garbage, compost, or unfamiliar foods can trigger immediate digestive upset.
Parasites: Giardia, roundworms, and other parasites frequently cause loose stools, especially in younger dogs.
Food Allergies: Some dogs develop sensitivities to proteins or ingredients in their regular food.
Infectious Causes: Bacteria like Salmonella or viruses like parvovirus can cause severe diarrhea.
Inflammatory Conditions: Inflammatory bowel disease, similar to Crohn’s disease in humans, affects many dogs.
Pancreatic Issues: Pancreatic insufficiency, particularly common in German Shepherds, can cause chronic digestive problems.
I also distinguish between small bowel and large bowel diarrhea:
Small Bowel Diarrhea: Large volume, less frequent, sometimes with vomiting and weight loss. Originates from the small intestine.
Large Bowel Diarrhea (Colitis): Frequent bowel movements, straining, often with mucus and blood. Originates from the colon and is usually caused by dietary indiscretion.
What Food Stops Diarrhea in Dogs?
The most effective foods for stopping dog diarrhea are those that are easily digestible and help absorb excess fluid in the intestinal tract:
Plain White Rice: This is my go-to recommendation. White rice is easily digestible and helps bind loose stools. Cook it plain with just water – never add salt as outlined in our guide about whether dogs need salt in homemade food.
Plain Cooked Chicken: Boiled or baked chicken breast (no skin, no seasoning) provides easily digestible protein once your dog is ready for it.
Plain Pumpkin: Not pumpkin pie filling, but plain canned pumpkin. It’s high in fiber and helps normalize stool consistency.
Bone Broth: Homemade bone broth provides hydration and gentle nutrition. Avoid store-bought versions with added sodium.
Sweet Potatoes: Cooked and mashed sweet potatoes offer gentle carbohydrates and beneficial fiber.
The Science Behind These Foods: These foods work because they’re low in fat, easily digestible, and help absorb excess water in the intestinal tract. They also provide gentle nutrition without irritating an already upset digestive system.
Is Scrambled Egg Good for a Dog with Diarrhea?
Yes, scrambled eggs can be excellent for dogs with diarrhea, but preparation matters. Here’s how to do it right:
Proper Preparation:
- Use only egg whites if possible (easier to digest)
- Cook with minimal oil or better yet, no oil at all
- No salt, pepper, or other seasonings
- Cook thoroughly but keep them soft
Why Eggs Work: Eggs provide high-quality, easily digestible protein that’s gentle on upset stomachs. The protein helps maintain nutrition during recovery without taxing the digestive system.
When to Introduce Eggs: Start eggs on day 2 or 3 of the recovery protocol, mixed with rice. Never give eggs during the initial 24-hour fasting period.
For dogs recovering from dental procedures who need soft textures, eggs prepared this way align with recommendations in our guide for soft foods after dental surgery.
What Food Will Firm Up Dog Poop?
Several foods specifically help firm loose stools by absorbing excess moisture and providing bulk:
High-Fiber Options:
- Plain pumpkin: 1-2 tablespoons per 10 pounds of body weight
- Sweet potatoes: Cooked and mashed
- Plain oatmeal: Cooked with water only
- Bananas: Small amounts for potassium and pectin
Binding Foods:
- White rice: The starch helps absorb excess fluid
- Plain pasta: Similar binding effect to rice
- Toast: Small pieces of plain white toast
Probiotic Foods:
While not directly firming, these support gut health:
- Plain yogurt: Check our guide on how much yogurt dogs can safely have
- Kefir: Small amounts of plain kefir
- Probiotic supplements: Lactobacillus acidophilus works best
How Do I Stop My Dog’s Diarrhea?
My proven method combines immediate dietary management with supportive treatments:
Immediate Steps:
- 24-Hour Food Fast: Allow the digestive system to rest
- Maintain Hydration: Ensure constant access to fresh water
- Monitor Closely: Watch for signs of dehydration or worsening
Natural Remedies I Use in Practice:
Probiotics: The most effective approach uses Lactobacillus acidophilus. Give 1/4 capsule per 10 pounds of body weight twice daily. This helps restore natural intestinal bacteria.
Pepto-Bismol: An old standby that’s very effective. The dog dose is 1ml per 10 pounds of body weight, given 3 times daily for no more than 7 days.
Kaopectate: The newer formulation contains clay that binds toxins and reduces intestinal fluid. Dose: 0.5-1ml per pound by mouth every 4-6 hours for 1-2 days only.
Peppermint Tea: Great for intestinal gas and cramping. Use 25mg per pound of body weight twice daily of dried herb, or 1 tablespoon per 10 pounds twice daily of cooled tea.
Homeopathic Support: Arsenicum album in 30C concentration works exceptionally well. Give 1 capsule per 20 pounds every 2-4 hours. Simply open the dog’s mouth and place under the lip – they don’t need to swallow it.
What’s the Fastest Way to Have a Dog Have Solid Poop?
The fastest results come from combining the right diet with targeted support:
1st Day :
- Complete food fast for 24 hours
- Start probiotics immediately
- Ensure adequate hydration
- Begin Pepto-Bismol if diarrhea is severe
2nd Day :
- Introduce plain white rice
- Continue probiotics
- Add small amount of plain pumpkin
- Monitor stool consistency
3rd Day :
- Mix rice with small amounts of plain chicken
- Gradually transition back to normal food
- Continue probiotics for additional days
Turbo-Charge Recovery:
- Use bone broth instead of water for rice cooking
- Add a pinch of plain pumpkin to each meal
- Maintain probiotic support for 5-7 days total
When Should I Worry About Dog Diarrhea?
As a veterinarian, I always emphasize that some situations require immediate professional care:
Emergency Situations:
- Severe dehydration: Lethargy, dry gums, skin tenting
- Bloody diarrhea: Especially if accompanied by vomiting
- Young puppies: Unvaccinated puppies with diarrhea need immediate attention
- Persistent vomiting: Can’t keep water down for more than 12 hours
- Signs of pain: Hunched posture, whining, reluctance to move
Concerning Symptoms:
- Diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours despite treatment
- Black, tarry stools (could indicate internal bleeding)
- Extreme lethargy or collapse
- Refusal to drink water
- High fever (over 103°F)
Chronic Cases: If diarrhea keeps returning, underlying conditions like food allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, or liver problems might be involved. Dogs with liver issues require special dietary considerations, as outlined in our comprehensive guide for dogs with liver disease.
How Do I Harden Up My Dog’s Poo?
Beyond immediate dietary changes, several strategies help firm loose stools:
Fiber Management:
- Soluble fiber: Pumpkin, sweet potatoes, oatmeal
- Gradually increase: Don’t add too much fiber too quickly
- Monitor response: Some dogs need more, others need less
Protein Quality:
- Easily digestible proteins: Chicken, turkey, fish
- Avoid fatty meats: They can worsen diarrhea
- Cook thoroughly: Raw proteins can harbor bacteria
Feeding Schedule:
- Smaller, frequent meals: Easier on the digestive system
- Consistent timing: Helps regulate digestive patterns
- Avoid treats: Especially during recovery
Long-term Strategies:
- Identify triggers: Keep a food diary
- Quality nutrition: High-quality commercial foods or balanced homemade diets
- Regular vet checkups: Monitor for underlying conditions
Could Worms Cause Loose Stool in Dogs?
Absolutely. Parasites are one of the most common causes of diarrhea in dogs, especially puppies and young adults:
Common Culprits:
- Roundworms: Can cause loose, mucoid stools
- Hookworms: Often cause bloody diarrhea
- Whipworms: Lead to chronic, intermittent loose stools
- Giardia: Causes persistent, watery diarrhea
- Coccidia: Common in puppies, causes loose, mucoid stools
Signs of Parasites:
- Visible worms in stool
- Mucus in stool
- Intermittent diarrhea that improves then worsens
- Weight loss despite good appetite
- Pot-bellied appearance in puppies
Treatment Approach: If you suspect parasites, combine dietary management with deworming. However, proper identification requires fecal examination by your veterinarian for targeted treatment.
Why Does My Dog’s Poop Start Normal Then Runny?
This pattern is actually quite common and usually indicates large bowel (colonic) issues:
Large Bowel Inflammation:
- Colitis: Inflammation of the colon
- Dietary irritation: Food passing through normally until reaching irritated colon
- Stress colitis: Anxiety can affect the large bowel specifically
Progressive Digestive Issues:
- Fiber fermentation: Normal stool forms first, then loose material follows
- Incomplete digestion: Some nutrients absorbed normally, others not
- Motility problems: Inconsistent intestinal contractions
Management Strategy:
- Focus on anti-inflammatory foods: Plain pumpkin, sweet potatoes
- Reduce insoluble fiber: Temporarily avoid high-roughage foods
- Stress management: Maintain routine, provide calm environment
- Probiotic support: Help restore normal colonic bacteria
Step-by-Step Feeding Protocol for Different Conditions
What to Feed a Dog with Diarrhea and Vomiting
When both symptoms are present, the approach becomes more cautious:
Hour 1-12: Complete food and water restriction to prevent further vomiting Hour 12-24: Small ice chips or small amounts of water every 30 minutes Hour 24-36: If no vomiting, start small amounts of bone broth Hour 36-48: Introduction of plain white rice if liquids stay down Day 3: Gradual addition of easily digestible protein
What to Feed a Diabetic Dog with Diarrhea
Diabetic dogs require special consideration to maintain blood sugar stability:
Maintain Feeding Schedule: Don’t fast diabetic dogs for 24 hours Low-Fat Options: Plain white rice with small amounts of lean protein Monitor Blood Sugar: Check glucose levels more frequently Veterinary Consultation: Contact your vet immediately for insulin adjustment guidance
What to Feed a Dog with Liver Problems and Diarrhea
Dogs with liver issues need modified protein levels and specific nutrients:
Low-Protein Approach: Reduce protein temporarily to ease liver workload High-Quality Proteins: Use easily digestible proteins when reintroducing Avoid Fatty Foods: Fat can worsen both liver problems and diarrhea B-Vitamin Support: Often needed for liver function
What to Feed a Senior Dog with Diarrhea
Older dogs may need gentler approaches:
Extended Recovery Time: Senior dogs may need longer to heal Softer Textures: Easier for aging digestive systems Increased Monitoring: Watch for dehydration more closely Medication Considerations: Many seniors take medications that affect digestion
Foods to Absolutely Avoid During Diarrhea Episodes
Some foods can worsen digestive upset and should be completely avoided:
High-Fat Foods:
- Fatty meats: Bacon, sausage, ham
- Dairy products: Cheese, milk, ice cream
- Oils and butter: Can stimulate more diarrhea
Irritating Foods:
- Spicy foods: Any seasoned human food
- High-fiber raw vegetables: Broccoli, cabbage, onions
- Sugary treats: Including many commercial dog treats
Processed Options: Many commercial treats like Milk Bones can be problematic for sensitive dogs during digestive upset.
Human Foods to Avoid:
- Chocolate: Toxic and can worsen digestive issues
- Grapes and raisins: Toxic to dogs
- Artificial sweeteners: Particularly xylitol
- Caffeinated beverages: Can increase dehydration
Supporting Gut Health During Recovery
Probiotic Strategy: I recommend continuing probiotics for 5-7 days beyond symptom resolution. This helps rebuild healthy gut bacteria and prevents recurrence.
Prebiotic Support: Foods that feed beneficial bacteria:
- Plain pumpkin: Contains prebiotic fiber
- Sweet potatoes: Support beneficial bacteria growth
- Bone broth: Provides nutrients for gut healing
Gradual Dietary Expansion: Don’t rush back to normal feeding. Spend at least a week gradually reintroducing regular foods and monitoring stool quality.
Creating a Diarrhea Emergency Kit
Every dog parent should have these items ready:
Immediate Supplies:
- Plain white rice: Keep some on hand always
- Canned plain pumpkin: Not pie filling
- Probiotic capsules: Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Pepto-Bismol: Check expiration dates regularly
Monitoring Tools:
- Digital thermometer: Normal dog temperature is 101-103°F
- Measuring cups: For accurate feeding amounts
- Contact information: Your veterinarian’s emergency number
Special Situations and Breed Considerations
What to Feed a Small Dog with Diarrhea
Small breeds have unique needs:
- More frequent feedings: Prevent hypoglycemia
- Smaller portions: Easier on tiny digestive systems
- Faster dehydration: Monitor hydration status closely
What to Feed a Boxer Dog with Diarrhea
Boxers are prone to sensitive stomachs:
- Avoid high-fat foods: This breed is particularly sensitive
- Monitor for bloat: Large, deep-chested breed concern
- Consider food allergies: Common in this breed
What to Feed a Raw Fed Dog with Diarrhea
Dogs on raw diets need special consideration:
- Temporary cooked food: Switch to cooked options during illness
- Bone removal: Remove all bones during digestive upset
- Gradual return: Slowly reintroduce raw foods after recovery
Long-Term Prevention Strategies
Quality Nutrition Foundation: Choose high-quality commercial foods or properly balanced homemade diets to prevent recurring issues.
Consistent Feeding Schedule: Regular meal times help maintain digestive health and make it easier to spot problems early.
Gradual Food Changes: Always transition foods slowly over 7-10 days to prevent digestive upset.
Regular Health Monitoring: Annual fecal examinations can catch parasites before they cause problems.
Your Action Plan for Quick Recovery
Remember, most cases of simple diarrhea resolve within 2-3 days with proper management. The key is acting quickly but not panicking. Start with the 24-hour fast, introduce bland foods gradually, and support recovery with probiotics and proper hydration.
Watch your dog closely during recovery. If they remain alert, active, and drinking water, home management is usually successful. However, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you notice concerning symptoms or if improvement doesn’t occur within 48 hours.
Every dog is different, and what works for one may need adjustment for another. Keep notes about what works best for your dog so you’re prepared for future episodes. With the right approach, you can help your furry friend return to normal quickly and comfortably.
The most important thing to remember is that you’re not alone in this. Digestive upset is incredibly common in dogs, and with proper management, most dogs make full recoveries and return to their happy, healthy selves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my dog has diarrhea but still eating and drinking?
This is typically not an emergency. Continue the bland diet protocol and monitor closely. Contact your vet if no improvement in 48-72 hours.
What is the most common cause of diarrhea in dogs?
Dietary indiscretion (eating inappropriate foods) is the leading cause, followed by parasites and food sensitivities in my veterinary practice.
How long does it take for dog diarrhea to resolve?
Most simple cases resolve within 2-3 days with proper management. Chronic issues may take weeks and require veterinary intervention.
How to harden dog poop to pick it up?
Add plain pumpkin (1-2 tbsp per 10 lbs) and ensure adequate fiber in diet. Rice and sweet potatoes also help firm loose stools.
What medicine for dog diarrhea?
Pepto-Bismol (1ml per 10 lbs, 3x daily) or Kaopectate (0.5-1ml per lb every 4-6 hours) are safe options for short-term use.
Should I withhold food if my dog has diarrhea?
Yes, adult dogs should fast for 24 hours to allow intestinal rest. Always provide water. Diabetic dogs need modified approaches.
How do you treat yellow diarrhea in dogs?
Yellow diarrhea often indicates rapid transit. Use the same bland diet protocol: 24-hour fast, then rice, then gradual food reintroduction.
What does “watery dog poo” mean?
Watery stool indicates severe intestinal irritation with poor water absorption. Requires immediate dietary management and possible veterinary care.
Why is liquid coming out when my dog poops?
This suggests large bowel irritation (colitis). Focus on anti-inflammatory foods like pumpkin and consider probiotic support for recovery.
