Caring for a Dog with Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common symptom in dogs and can have many different causes. Diarrhea in dogs, just like humans is the result of the body trying to rid the itself of some sort of intestinal irritation. Bacteria, virus, foreign body, spoiled food or toxins among other things can all cause diarrhea. Mild cases of diarrhea in dogs can typically be treated at home with supportive therapy. More severe or questionable cases of diarrhea in dogs should always be attended to by a veterinarian.

Withholding solid food is the first and most important step in treating a dog with diarrhea. Food should be withheld for 24 to 48 hours, depending on how quickly your dog is recovering. This practice gives your dogs intestinal tract an opportunity to rest and get back to normal.

It is essential that you promote fluids when your dog has diarrhea. Fluid therapy will prevent your dog from becoming dehydrated. Your dog should always have water available when it has diarrhea. Additionally, to keep sodium and potassium levels from dropping, offer broth. You can give your dog broth several times daily while you are withholding food.

When it has been at least 24 hours and if your dog is showing significant signs of improvement, you can begin to offer solid food. When returning your dog to solid food you should always start with a bland diet. Boil a chicken breast and chop or puree it. Mix it with cooked rice. It should be about three parts chicken to one part rice. Continue this diet until your dog is better. When you are ready to return your dog to their normal diet, it is important to do so gradually. You can do this by mixing their normal dog food with the bland diet you have been feeding them. Doing this will help to prevent irritation from switching foods, which can also cause diarrhea in dogs.