When a dog develops diarrhea, diet plays a critical role in both comfort and recovery. While short-term digestive upset is common and often resolves on its own, knowing what to feed during this time can help soothe the stomach, support hydration, and prevent the situation from worsening.

Before making any major dietary changes, it's always best to consult a veterinarian—especially if symptoms last more than a day or are paired with vomiting, lethargy, or blood in the stool. But for mild cases, adjusting the diet can often provide quick relief.

Start with a Short Fast

Many vets recommend withholding food for 12 to 24 hours (water should still be available) to give the digestive system a break. This short fast can reduce inflammation and clear out any irritants. Puppies and senior dogs may not tolerate fasting well, so always use caution based on age and overall health.

Introduce Bland, Easily Digestible Foods

Once the fast ends, reintroduce food slowly. The goal is to offer simple ingredients that are easy on the gut. Popular choices include:

  • Boiled chicken (no skin or seasoning) – High in protein and gentle on digestion.
  • White rice – Provides energy without much fiber, making it easy to process.
  • Pumpkin (plain, canned) – A small amount can help firm up stool thanks to its soluble fiber content.
  • Boiled potatoes (peeled) – Serve plain and mashed, another gentle carbohydrate source.
  • Cottage cheese or plain yogurt (in small quantities) – The probiotics may benefit gut health, but avoid if dairy usually upsets your dog.

Feed small portions several times a day, gradually increasing quantity as the stool improves. Avoid fatty meats, spicy foods, and anything with artificial additives or preservatives.

Hydration Matters

Diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in smaller breeds. Ensure fresh water is always available. Some dogs may benefit from unflavored electrolyte solutions formulated for pets. Broth (without onion, garlic, or seasoning) can also encourage drinking.

Gradual Return to Regular Diet

Once stools have returned to normal, reintroduce the dog's regular food gradually over three to five days. Mix increasing portions of the normal diet with the bland food to avoid shocking the system. Abrupt changes can cause a relapse.

Cleaning Up After an Episode

Episodes of diarrhea can leave behind a mess, indoors or outdoors. When it happens in the yard, a dog poop service can be a helpful resource to restore cleanliness. These services are especially valuable for pet owners who need support maintaining a hygienic environment during periods of illness.

For those in Pennsylvania, dog waste removal Pittsburgh providers offer routine visits to ensure the yard stays clear, even when accidents happen frequently.

And when a sick pet means you've got your hands full, reliable dog poop cleaning services can take the stress out of clean-up so you can focus on helping your dog feel better.

Final Thoughts

Feeding a dog with diarrhea requires patience, gentle ingredients, and careful observation. With a steady approach and proper support, most dogs bounce back quickly. Keeping their environment clean during recovery can also prevent reinfection and reduce stress for both of you.