2024 Guide to Deal with Dog Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Dog diarrhea is a common health problem that affects dogs of all ages and breeds. The disease is characterized by loose, watery stools and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy and loss of appetite. While occasional episodes of diarrhea may not be a cause for concern, persistent or severe cases may indicate an underlying health problem and require immediate attention. You may not be able to prevent diarrhea completely, but learning as much as you can about it may help to limit the number of times your dog has one of these unpleasant events. In this article, there are a number of over-the-counter diarrhea treatments for dogs.

What is the Most Common Cause of Diarrhea in Dogs?

To treat diarrhea, you must first understand the causes of diarrhea and treat them accordingly.

1. Dietary Indiscretion

The most common cause of diarrhea in dogs is dietary indiscretion. This refers to the consumption of inappropriate or spoiled food, eating garbage, or ingesting foreign objects. Dogs have sensitive digestive systems, and any sudden change in their diet or consuming something that doesn't agree with them can result in diarrhea.

Other common causes of diarrhea in dogs include:

2. Parasites

Intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, or coccidia can lead to diarrhea. Puppies are especially susceptible to these infections.

3. Bacterial or viral infections

Bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, as well as viral infections like parvovirus or distemper, can cause diarrhea in dogs.

4. Food allergies or intolerances

Some dogs may have specific allergies or intolerances to certain ingredients in their food, such as grains, dairy, or certain proteins, leading to diarrhea.

5. Stress or anxiety

Dogs can experience digestive upset, including diarrhea, when they are stressed, anxious, or undergo significant changes in their environment or routine.

6. Medications or toxic substances

Certain medications, such as antibiotics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause diarrhea as a side effect. Additionally, ingestion of toxic substances like household chemicals or plants toxic to dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset.

Owners recall if their dog has exhibited any of the above behaviors in the last 10-24 hours.

How to Know When You Can Treat Diarrhea at Home?

Most cases of diarrhea can be managed at home without medical intervention. Here are some guidelines to help you determine whether you can treat diarrhea at home:

Your Dog Has Diarrhea But is Acting Fine

If your dog has only mild symptoms, such as loose or watery stools, with no other associated symptoms, normal appetite, and normal energy, treatment at home is usually safe. Mild diarrhea usually goes away on its own within a few days.

Absence of Severe Symptoms

If there are no severe accompanying symptoms, such as high fever, severe abdominal pain, blood in the stool, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration (excessive thirst, dry mouth, decreased urine output, dizziness, or lightheadedness), home treatment is usually appropriate.

What Home Remedy Can I Give My Dog for Diarrhea?

If parasitic infections are ruled out as a cause of diarrhea, the following treatment can be administered.

1. Fasting

Provide your dog with a break from food for 12 to 24 hours to allow its digestive system to rest and recover. Ensure they have access to fresh water to prevent dehydration.

2. Bland Diet

After the fasting period, gradually reintroduce a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken (no seasoning or skin) and plain white rice. Feed small, frequent meals throughout the day.

Example of serving size:

One or two tablespoons per hour can be provided for small dogs for several hours. Then allow them to rest for a few hours. If there is no vomiting or worsening of symptoms, you can increase the amount slightly. You will end up feeding smaller portions more frequently than they would normally be fed.

3. Hydration

Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. You can also offer them a rehydration solution specifically formulated for dogs or a diluted electrolyte solution (following your veterinarian's advice).

4. Probiotics

Probiotics can help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in your dog's gut. You can find probiotic supplements specifically formulated for dogs at pet stores or consult your veterinarian for recommendations.

5. Anti-Diarrheal Medications

These medications can help slow down bowel movements and reduce the frequency of diarrhea. Common options include loperamide (Imodium), bismuth carbonate, and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol). However, the use of these medications should be under veterinary guidance, as they might not be suitable for all dogs and could mask underlying issues.

	Reduces the irritation of harmful substance to the intestinal mucosa Improves mucosal protective immunity against bacteria Stops diarrhea Ingredients bismuth carbonate
	Details Treatment of diarrhea caused by gastrointestinal infection. How to use For cats and dogs, feed 10-20mg for once for per kg of weight, twice a day for 3-5 days. Or feed as directed by a vet. (One tablet = 100mg) Ingredients Neomycin Sulfate

5. Pumpkin

Adding a small amount of plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) to your dog's food may help firm up their stool. Start with a teaspoon for smaller dogs and up to a tablespoon for larger dogs.

How Fast Does Pumpkin Work for Dog Diarrhea?

The high fiber content in pumpkin can help regulate the digestive system and firm up loose stools. It absorbs excess water in the intestines, adding bulk to the stool and promoting normal bowel movements. Pumpkin also contains beneficial nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and E, as well as potassium, which can help support overall digestive health.

In most cases, you should see some improvement within a day or two of incorporating pumpkin into your dog's diet.

Is Scrambled Egg Good for Dogs with Diarrhea?

Feeding scrambled eggs to dogs with diarrhea can be a good option as long as the eggs are cooked thoroughly and there are no added ingredients that could upset the dog's stomach further. Eggs are generally easy to digest and can provide a good source of protein for dogs. The bland nature of scrambled eggs may also help soothe the digestive system.

Treatment of Diarrhoea Caused By Parasitic Infections

The treatment of diarrhea caused by parasitic infections typically involves a combination of medications to target the specific parasite involved. The specific treatment will depend on the type of parasite causing the infection. Here are some commonly used medications for treating parasitic infections that cause diarrhea:

• Albendazole: This broad-spectrum antiparasitic drug is commonly used to treat intestinal parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. It is also effective against some protozoan parasites.

• Metronidazole: This medication is effective against certain parasites, such as Giardia lamblia and Entamoeba histolytica. It is commonly used to treat amoebic dysentery and giardiasis.
• Mebendazole: Mebendazole is another medication commonly used for the treatment of various intestinal worms, including roundworms, whipworms, and pinworms.

It is important to note that fleas are the vector for tapeworms, so puppies with fleas can also get tapeworms. Avoiding recurrent tapeworm infections is sometimes not easy. The first step is to control fleas on dogs and cats, which often have tapeworm eggs in their stomachs. Secondly, transmission can also occur through the consumption of rodents, undercooked meat, fish, and prawns.

The scientific approach to flea prevention is to prevent and kill fleas by using an in vitro wormer once a month. Regular flea prevention can be effective in controlling tapeworm infections caused by fleas as a vector. In addition to controlling vectors such as fleas, your dog should be given an internal parasite medication every 3 months to prevent intestinal parasitic infections such as tapeworms.

Related: Flea Tick and Heartworm Prevention for Dogs

Dog Poop Color Chart

Different factors can contribute to changes in stool color, including diet, medication, and underlying health conditions. Here are some general guidelines:

Why Does My Dog Get Diarrhea in the Summer?

During the summer, you might modify your dog's diet or offer different types of food, such as more treats, barbecue leftovers, or outdoor picnics. Sudden dietary changes can upset your dog's digestive system, resulting in diarrhea. And the summer season often means spending more time outdoors, where dogs can come into contact with various pathogens. These may include bacteria, viruses, parasites, or even contaminated water sources. Ingesting or being exposed to such pathogens can also lead to gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea.

How Long Does Dog Diarrhea Usually Last?

The duration of dog diarrhea can vary depending on the underlying cause and individual circumstances. In general, mild cases of diarrhea in dogs may resolve within a couple of days. If diarrhea persists for more than a day or two, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

When is Dog Diarrhea an Emergency?

There are situations where it can be considered an emergency. Here are some instances when dog diarrhea may require immediate veterinary attention:

• Blood in the stool
• Having persistent diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Fever 
• Presence of foreign objects
• Diarrhea in very young or senior dogs

Related: Why Is My Dog Pee Green: Understanding the Possible Causes

Conclusion

Dog diarrhea is a common health issue with various potential causes. While occasional episodes may resolve with simple dietary modifications, persistent or severe cases require veterinary attention. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate management to alleviate symptoms and promote your dog's overall well-being. Remember, when in doubt, always consult your veterinarian to ensure the health and happiness of your furry friend.