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When your dog has diarrhea, it can be worrying and messy, but not always serious. Maybe they ate something on a walk that they shouldn’t have, or a new food just doesn’t agree with them. What should you do when your dog has diarrhea? Occasional diarrhea is common in dogs and typically resolves with simple at-home care.
As long as your dog is not showing other signs of illness, such as vomiting, lethargy, or dehydration, there are some safe and effective home remedies you can try before rushing to the vet.
1. When your dog has diarrhea – Start with Fasting
If your dog is healthy and an adult (not a puppy or a senior with underlying issues), withholding food for 12 to 24 hours can help clear their digestive system. This gives the gut time to rest and recover. Make sure they still have access to clean, fresh water to prevent dehydration.
2. Offer Bland Food
After fasting, slowly reintroduce bland foods for a couple of days. Plain boiled chicken (no skin, bones, or seasoning) is a go-to option. You can also use plain boiled turkey or lean ground beef; drain any fat and mix in pumpkin puree (pure pumpkin, not pie filling) or mashed sweet potato. Always start with small portions and increase gradually as your dog improves.
If the diarrhea continues or worsens, stop and consult a vet. Many vets recommend plain white rice, but while it won’t cause harm in the short term, rice isn’t always the best option for dogs.
3. Add Probiotics
Adding probiotics can help restore healthy gut bacteria. Our go-to probiotic source is raw goat milk. Read HERE why raw goat milk is a staple in our house. We keep it on hand and add it to Laila’s food regularly. Small amounts of plain Greek yogurt or kefir can also be helpful. It’s good practice to continue adding probiotics, not just when your dog has diarrhea.
There are many supplements on the market to keep your dog’s digestion running smoothly. Restor-Flora will help get things back on track after a bout of diarrhea.
4. Hydration is Key
If your dog has diarrhea, it can quickly lead to dehydration. Make sure your dog drinks water regularly. Bone broth is a great way to encourage your dog to drink more fluids. They love the meaty taste, and it also soothes the digestive tract. It’s super simple to make at home in the crockpot. Here is a post all about how to make it for your dog.
5. Slippery Elm or Other Natural Options
Slippery elm bark powder is a gentle herbal remedy that can soothe the digestive tract. You can buy it as a powder or capsule at natural pet stores. Check dosage recommendations or talk to a holistic vet before using it. Runs be done is a natural supplement we have used to firm up Laila’s diarrhea. This stuff works! Add the powder to a little wet food, and before you know it, your pup’s poop is back to normal. Perfect for occasional diarrhea.
When Your Dog Has Diarrhea: When Should You See the Vet
Home care is appropriate for mild, short-term diarrhea, but see your vet immediately if:
- Diarrhea persists after trying the above remedies
- Your dog is very young, a senior, or has other health issues
- You see blood in the stool
- Your dog is vomiting, lethargic, or refusing food or water
- Your dog is running a fever
Final Thoughts
While it’s never fun when your dog has diarrhea, most cases can be managed at home with some patience and gentle care. Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and stool consistency. When in doubt, call your vet—it’s always better to ask than to guess when it comes to your dog’s health.
Always introduce remedies slowly, one at a time, so you can monitor how your dog reacts. With a little care, your dog will likely be back to their tail-wagging self in no time.
