How to Feed Your Dog After a Bout of Diarrhoea: Step-by-Step

Anyone who owns a dog knows how quickly their pet can get into trouble by eating something unpleasant or rolling in something unwanted. While a thorough bath can tackle the mess, if your dog has eaten something harmful, diarrhoea ("the runs") can be the result, which requires careful care and sometimes veterinary attention.

Diarrhoea in dogs is the body's natural way to expel harmful bacteria, but it can also arise from viruses, digestive bugs, internal parasites, or allergies. Diet changes that are too sudden may also cause upset, and there are more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, kidney or liver disease, thyroid issues, irritable bowel syndrome, or poisoning that can cause diarrhoea too.

Usually, you don’t need to rush to the vet for every bout. However, if your dog shows two or more of these symptoms alongside diarrhoea, get veterinary advice immediately:

• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Dehydration
• Blood in their faeces

Dehydration can be life-threatening, so ensuring your dog drinks plenty of fresh water is vital. Your vet may recommend safe electrolyte products to add to their water to help maintain hydration.

Step 1: Withhold Food Temporarily to Rest the Gut

After a bout of diarrhoea, it’s best to avoid feeding your dog for about 12 to 24 hours, depending on your vet's recommendation. This fasting period allows their digestive system time to settle. Always provide unlimited access to fresh, clean water during this time to prevent dehydration.

Step 2: Introduce a Bland, Easy-to-Digest Diet

Once the fasting period is over and your dog seems ready to eat, offer a bland diet in small, frequent portions to gently restart their digestive system. Ideal ingredients include:

• Plain boiled chicken breast (no skin or bones) – lean protein that’s gentle on the stomach
• Plain boiled white rice – an easy carbohydrate source that helps absorb excess water in the intestines
• Plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) – rich in dietary fibre and nutrients, it helps to firm stools and soothe the gut

Mix these ingredients in small portions. Avoid any fatty, seasoned, or acidic foods during this recovery phase. Some vets may also recommend products like FortiFlora by Purina to restore healthy gut bacteria.

Step 3: Monitor Stool and Appetite

Feed this bland diet for 3 to 5 days, or until stools are consistently firm and your dog is free from diarrhoea. Watch for any signs of discomfort or reluctance to eat. Keep fresh water available at all times, and encourage hydration.

Step 4: Transition Back to Their Regular Diet Gradually

When your dog's stools have normalised, start mixing their usual diet with the bland diet. Gradually increase the proportion of their regular food over 3 to 5 days to avoid upsetting their stomach again. For example:

1. Day 1-2: 25% regular food + 75% bland diet
2. Day 3-4: 50% regular food + 50% bland diet
3. Day 5: 75% regular food + 25% bland diet
4. Day 6: Regular food only, if tolerated well

Step 5: Know When to Contact Your Vet

If diarrhoea persists beyond 2-3 days, or if your dog shows any serious symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, fever, blood in stools, or dehydration signs, arrange a veterinary review promptly. Your vet can diagnose any underlying health issues and prescribe medication or fluids if needed.

Additional Tips for Responsible Pet Care

• Always keep your dog’s vaccinations and worming treatments up to date to prevent infections.
• Be cautious about what your dog can access outdoors or during walks to minimise the risk of ingesting harmful substances.
• If you’re adopting a new puppy or dog, source them from reputable breeders or adoption centres to ensure health and welfare standards.
• Maintain a regular feeding routine and avoid rapid diet changes.

Conclusion

Feeding your dog safely after a bout of diarrhoea involves giving their digestive system time to rest, offering gentle, bland foods, and gradually returning to their usual diet. Always emphasise hydration and monitor your dog’s health closely. When in doubt, consulting your vet is the best way to ensure your beloved pet recovers comfortably and safely.