For a dog with diarrhea, feeding a bland, easily digestible diet can help soothe their digestive system and firm up stools. Here are recommended foods and treatments:

Foods to Give a Dog with Diarrhea

• Plain White Rice: Easy to digest and high in fiber that absorbs water, helping to firm stools. Use freshly cooked plain white rice, cooled to room temperature

• Lean Protein: Boiled, skinless chicken or turkey breast cut into small pieces is gentle on the stomach. Serve plain and cooled, either alone or mixed with rice

• Potatoes: Boiled and mashed plain white or sweet potatoes provide digestible starch and fiber. Avoid raw potatoes due to toxicity

• Canned Pumpkin: Rich in fiber and prebiotics, canned plain pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) helps regulate digestion and firm stools. Small amounts are effective (1-3 teaspoons for small dogs, up to 3 tablespoons for large dogs)

• Porridge Oats: Fully cooked oats made with water (no sugar or flavorings) can help bind stools due to their fiber content

• Carrots: Boiled and mashed carrots add fiber and nutrients, aiding stool formation and overall gut health

• Plain Yogurt: For dogs that tolerate dairy, plain yogurt with active cultures can promote healthy gut bacteria

• Other Options: Low-fat cottage cheese, plain scrambled eggs (no butter/oil), and sensitive stomach dog foods may also be helpful

Additional Care

• Hydration: Keep your dog well-hydrated. Rice water (water used to cook white rice) can be given in small amounts frequently to help with hydration and digestion

• Fasting: Brief fasting (skipping one meal or delaying feeding by a few hours) may help some dogs’ digestive tracts rest but always ensure water is available

• Rest: Reduce stress and allow your dog to rest, as excitement can worsen diarrhea

If diarrhea persists more than a couple of days, is severe, or accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or blood, consult a veterinarian promptly. In summary, a bland diet of plain boiled white rice and lean protein, supplemented by pumpkin and other gentle foods, along with hydration and rest, is the best approach to help a dog recover from diarrhea