How to Stop Diarrhea in Dogs?
Step 1: Seek Veterinary Care
If your dog’s diarrhea is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, or a fever, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. While diarrhea itself may not be a major issue, these other symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying issue.
Step 2: Avoid Dehydration
It is important to keep your dog hydrated while they are experiencing diarrhea. Offer them water, low sodium broth, ice cubes, or use a pet fountain to encourage them to drink. You may even need to use a syringe to get your dog to drink enough fluids. Signs of dehydration include slow skin elasticity and prolonged white gums. If your dog becomes dehydrated, seek veterinary care immediately.
Step 3: Withhold Food for 12 Hours
To allow your dog’s digestive system time to clean itself out, withhold food for the first 12 hours of the diarrhea. After this period, you can gradually introduce a 50/50 mix of boiled boneless chicken and cooked rice, feeding about a quarter of a cup for every 20 pounds of body weight four times a day. This diet should continue until your dog’s stool becomes firm again.
Step 4: Seek Veterinary Help if Diarrhea Persists
If the diarrhea persists for more than 48 hours, it is important to seek veterinary care.
Step 5: Gradually Introduce Regular Diet
Once your dog’s stool has returned to normal, usually within 12-24 hours, you can gradually introduce their regular diet by mixing in any leftover chicken and rice with their kibble. Once their stool has returned to normal, they can resume their regular diet.
FAQs:
What should I do if my dog's diarrhea persists for more than 48 hours?
If your dog's diarrhea persists for more than 48 hours, it is important to seek veterinary care.
Can I give my dog over-the-counter diarrhea medication?
It is generally not recommended to give your dog over-the-counter diarrhea medication without consulting with a veterinarian. Some human medications can be toxic to dogs and may interfere with other medications they may be taking. It is best to consult with a veterinarian for the appropriate treatment for your dog's diarrhea.
Can I feed my dog a special diet to help with their diarrhea?
A 50/50 mix of boiled boneless chicken and cooked rice can be fed to your dog to help with their diarrhea. This diet should be fed in small amounts, about a quarter of a cup for every 20 pounds of body weight, four times a day. Once your dog's stool has returned to normal, you can gradually introduce their regular diet.
How can I prevent my dog from getting diarrhea in the future?
There are a few things you can do to prevent your dog from getting diarrhea: Make sure they are eating a well-balanced diet Avoid feeding them table scraps or other high-fat foods Keep their water bowl clean and refill it with fresh water daily Keep them up-to-date on their vaccinations and preventive medications If you are traveling with your dog, make sure they have access to clean water and only feed them food that is appropriate for them.
