What Are the Best Home Remedies to Give Dogs for Diarrhea?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Dog Health & Wellness

When our furry friends experience digestive upset, it can be just as worrying as when a family member falls ill. Diarrhea in dogs is a common issue that can arise from a variety of causes, ranging from dietary indiscretions to mild infections or stress. While it’s always important to consult a veterinarian for persistent or severe symptoms, many pet owners seek gentle, natural ways to help soothe their dog’s tummy at home.

Home remedies for canine diarrhea often focus on restoring digestive balance and providing comfort without harsh medications. These approaches can be especially helpful in mild cases or as supportive care alongside professional treatment. Understanding what to give dogs for diarrhea at home involves knowing which foods and supplements are safe, effective, and easy to administer.

In the following sections, we’ll explore practical, vet-approved home remedies that can help calm your dog’s digestive system and promote recovery. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden bout of diarrhea or looking for preventative care, this guide will equip you with valuable insights to support your pet’s health naturally and compassionately.

Home Remedies to Give Dogs for Diarrhea

When managing mild diarrhea in dogs at home, several remedies can help soothe the digestive system and restore normal bowel function. It is essential to ensure the dog remains hydrated throughout the process, as diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration. Offering small amounts of water frequently is critical.

One of the most common home remedies is dietary modification. Temporarily withholding food for 12 to 24 hours can allow the gastrointestinal tract to rest. After this fasting period, reintroduce a bland diet in small, frequent portions to prevent further irritation.

Common bland diet ingredients include:

  • Boiled white rice: Easily digestible and helps bind stool.
  • Boiled skinless chicken breast: Provides lean protein without added fat.
  • Pumpkin puree: A natural source of fiber that can help regulate bowel movements.
  • Plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling): Soothes the digestive tract.

In addition to diet, some natural supplements and remedies may aid recovery:

  • Probiotics: Help restore healthy gut bacteria balance, improving digestion.
  • Slippery elm: A natural herb that can coat and soothe the digestive tract.
  • Bone broth: Provides hydration and nutrients, promoting gut healing.

Be cautious when administering any supplements, and consult a veterinarian before use, especially if your dog is on other medications.

Foods Safe to Give Dogs with Diarrhea

Feeding the right foods is crucial in managing diarrhea at home. The goal is to provide easily digestible, low-fat, and low-fiber meals that do not further irritate the intestines. Below is a list of safe foods commonly used in home treatment for canine diarrhea:

  • Boiled chicken (skinless, boneless)
  • Boiled white rice
  • Plain canned pumpkin
  • Cooked sweet potato (without skin)
  • Cottage cheese (low-fat, in small amounts)
  • Plain yogurt (unsweetened, containing live cultures)

Avoid fatty, spicy, or dairy-heavy foods, as well as treats and table scraps, which can exacerbate diarrhea.

Food Benefits Preparation Tips
Boiled Chicken Lean protein, easy to digest Remove skin and bones; boil thoroughly
White Rice Binding effect, gentle on stomach Cook until very soft; avoid seasoning
Plain Canned Pumpkin Rich in fiber, regulates digestion Use pure pumpkin only; no additives
Sweet Potato Good fiber source, mild taste Cook and mash; remove skin
Cottage Cheese Contains protein and calcium Choose low-fat; feed in small quantities
Plain Yogurt Probiotics support gut flora Use unsweetened, natural yogurt

Additional Tips for Managing Canine Diarrhea at Home

In addition to dietary adjustments, other supportive care measures can assist in the recovery process:

  • Hydration: Offer fresh water frequently. For dogs reluctant to drink, adding ice cubes or offering an electrolyte solution formulated for pets can help.
  • Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of one or two large meals, provide several small meals throughout the day to reduce gastrointestinal strain.
  • Avoid Stress: Minimize changes in the dog’s environment, as stress can exacerbate digestive upset.
  • Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of stool consistency, frequency, appetite, and behavior. If diarrhea persists beyond 48 hours, worsens, or is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or blood, seek veterinary care immediately.
  • Clean Environment: Regularly clean the dog’s bedding and living area to prevent reinfection if the diarrhea is caused by parasites or bacteria.

Following these guidelines can help safely manage mild cases of diarrhea at home while supporting the dog’s overall well-being.

Safe Home Remedies to Help Dogs with Diarrhea

When managing mild diarrhea in dogs at home, it is crucial to focus on gentle, easily digestible foods and supportive care to restore digestive balance. These remedies can help soothe your dog’s gastrointestinal tract while providing necessary nutrients.

Bland Diet Options: Feeding a bland diet is often the first step to alleviate diarrhea. This diet is low in fat and fiber, allowing the digestive system to rest and recover.

  • Boiled Chicken and Rice: Skinless, boneless chicken breast boiled and shredded, combined with plain white rice, is a classic remedy. The protein provides nourishment, while rice binds the stool.
  • Boiled Ground Turkey and Pumpkin: Lean ground turkey mixed with canned pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) can also be effective. Pumpkin adds soluble fiber that helps regulate bowel movements.
  • Cooked Sweet Potatoes: Mashed sweet potatoes are gentle on the stomach and rich in fiber, aiding digestion.

Offer small, frequent meals rather than a large portion at once to prevent further irritation. Gradually reintroduce the regular diet over several days as symptoms improve.

Natural Supplements and Probiotics for Diarrhea Relief

In addition to dietary management, certain supplements and probiotics can support gut health and hasten recovery.

Supplement Benefits Usage Guidelines
Probiotics Restore healthy gut flora, improve digestion, and boost immune function. Choose veterinary-formulated probiotics; administer according to package instructions or vet advice.
Slippery Elm Soothes inflamed intestinal lining and acts as a mild anti-inflammatory. Available as powder or capsules; mix powder with water and add to food, following dosage based on dog’s weight.
Psyllium Husk Provides soluble fiber to bulk up stool and slow intestinal transit. Use sparingly to avoid constipation; mix with food or water.
Chamomile Tea Anti-inflammatory and calming, helps reduce intestinal spasms. Cool brewed tea can be offered in small amounts; ensure no additives.

Hydration and Monitoring During Diarrhea Episodes

Maintaining proper hydration is essential since diarrhea causes fluid loss, which can quickly lead to dehydration in dogs.

  • Fresh Water Availability: Always provide unrestricted access to clean, fresh water.
  • Electrolyte Solutions: Consult a veterinarian about canine-specific electrolyte solutions to replenish lost minerals and salts.
  • Small, Frequent Feedings: Feeding smaller amounts more frequently can ease digestion and reduce stress on the gastrointestinal system.

Closely monitor your dog’s behavior, appetite, and stool consistency. If diarrhea persists beyond 24–48 hours, worsens, or is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or blood in stool, seek veterinary care immediately.

Expert Recommendations on Home Remedies for Canine Diarrhea

Dr. Emily Harper (Veterinary Nutritionist, Canine Health Institute). When addressing diarrhea in dogs at home, it is crucial to provide a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken and rice to help soothe the digestive tract. Additionally, small amounts of plain pumpkin can be beneficial due to its fiber content, which aids in firming stools. However, hydration must be maintained carefully to prevent dehydration during episodes of diarrhea.

James Thornton (Certified Veterinary Technician and Animal Care Specialist). For mild cases of canine diarrhea, offering probiotics specifically formulated for dogs can restore intestinal flora balance effectively. It is also advisable to withhold food for 12 to 24 hours to allow the gut to rest, followed by gradual re of easily digestible foods. Avoid giving over-the-counter human medications without veterinary consultation, as they can be harmful to dogs.

Dr. Sophia Lin (Veterinarian and Canine Gastroenterology Expert). Home remedies for dog diarrhea should focus on supportive care, including ensuring access to fresh water and using natural anti-inflammatory ingredients like slippery elm bark powder. Monitoring the dog’s condition closely is essential, and if diarrhea persists beyond 48 hours or is accompanied by lethargy or vomiting, professional veterinary evaluation is necessary to rule out underlying serious conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What home remedies can I give my dog for diarrhea?
You can offer your dog a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken and white rice, pumpkin puree, or plain canned pumpkin. These foods help soothe the digestive tract and firm up stools.

Is it safe to give probiotics to a dog with diarrhea?
Yes, probiotics can help restore healthy gut bacteria and improve digestion. Use veterinarian-recommended probiotic supplements formulated specifically for dogs.

How much water should my dog drink when experiencing diarrhea?
Ensure your dog has constant access to fresh water to prevent dehydration. Encourage small, frequent drinks rather than large amounts at once.

Can over-the-counter medications be used for dog diarrhea at home?
Avoid human medications unless directed by a veterinarian. Some over-the-counter drugs can be harmful to dogs. Always consult your vet before administering any medication.

When should I seek veterinary care for my dog’s diarrhea?
Seek immediate veterinary attention if diarrhea persists longer than 24-48 hours, is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, blood in stool, or signs of dehydration.

Are there any natural supplements that help with dog diarrhea?
Natural supplements such as slippery elm, chamomile, and aloe vera may soothe the digestive tract. Use these only under veterinary guidance to ensure safety and proper dosage.
When addressing diarrhea in dogs through home remedies, it is essential to focus on gentle, easily digestible foods and supportive care. Common recommendations include feeding bland diets such as boiled chicken and rice, which help soothe the digestive tract and provide necessary nutrients without causing further irritation. Additionally, ensuring the dog remains well-hydrated is critical, as diarrhea can lead to dehydration quickly.

Probiotics and pumpkin are also frequently suggested as natural remedies. Probiotics help restore the balance of healthy gut bacteria, while canned pumpkin provides fiber that can regulate bowel movements. However, these remedies should be introduced cautiously and in appropriate amounts to avoid exacerbating the condition.

It is important to monitor the dog’s symptoms closely and seek veterinary advice if diarrhea persists beyond a couple of days, is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or blood in the stool. While home remedies can be effective for mild cases, professional evaluation ensures that underlying causes are identified and treated appropriately, safeguarding the dog’s overall health.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.