What Food Is Good For Dogs With Diarrhea? Guide For Pet Parents

As a food lover and dog parent, I always watch what goes into my pup’s bowl. When my dog has an upset stomach, I focus on gentle, healing meals.

That’s when I ask myself, what food is good for dogs with diarrhea? Over the years, I’ve learned which ingredients help settle sensitive tummies and which ones to avoid.

I’ve tried and tested simple, homemade solutions that actually work. In this post, I’ll share my go-to foods that have helped my own dog recover quickly and safely from digestive troubles.

What Food Is Good For Dogs With Diarrhea?

When a dog has diarrhea, it’s best to feed them a bland, easily digestible diet to help soothe their stomach. Boiled white rice mixed with plain, skinless boiled chicken is a common and effective option.

You can also offer plain canned pumpkin (not the sweetened pie filling), which helps firm up stools due to its fiber content. Other gentle foods include boiled potatoes (no butter or seasoning) and low-fat cottage cheese.

Always ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water to prevent dehydration, and consult your vet if diarrhea persists for more than a day or is accompanied by other symptoms.

What Causes Diarrhea in Dogs?

Diarrhea in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from mild to serious. Common causes include sudden changes in diet, food intolerances, or eating something inappropriate like garbage or spoiled food.

Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites (like Giardia or worms) are also frequent culprits. Stress, such as from travel or a new environment, can upset a dog’s digestive system.

More serious causes include underlying health issues such as inflammatory bowel disease, liver or kidney problems, or certain medications.

What Not to Feed a Dog With Diarrhea

When a dog has diarrhea, avoid feeding them anything that can further irritate their digestive system. Do not give fatty or greasy foods, such as bacon, sausages, or leftover table scraps.

Avoid dairy products, as many dogs are lactose intolerant, which can worsen diarrhea. Stay away from spicy foods, seasoned meats, and rich treats. Also, avoid giving raw meat, bones, or gravy, which can be hard to digest.

Sugary or artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol, which is toxic to dogs) should be completely avoided. Stick to bland, vet-recommended foods until your dog’s digestion returns to normal.

Is Scrambled Egg Good For Dogs With Diarrhea?

Yes, scrambled eggs can be good for dogs with diarrhea, as long as they are plain—cooked without butter, oil, milk, or seasoning.

Eggs are easy to digest and high in protein, which can help support your dog’s recovery. They can be a gentle addition to a bland diet when your dog is starting to eat solid food again.

However, eggs should be given in moderation, and it’s best to consult your vet before introducing them, especially if your dog has allergies or other health issues.

Home Feeding Schedule For Dogs With Diarrhea

Feeding smaller, more frequent meals helps avoid overwhelming the digestive system. A good schedule might look like this:

• Morning: Small serving of bland food (e.g., rice and chicken)
• Midday: Pumpkin or bone broth
• Evening: Another small meal
• Late evening: Optional snack (if needed to maintain energy)

Make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times to prevent dehydration.

When To See The Vet?

You should see a vet if your dog’s diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours, or if you notice signs like blood in the stool, black or tarry stools, vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying issue, such as infection, parasites, or toxin exposure.

Puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with existing health conditions should be seen by a vet even sooner, as they can become dehydrated and weak more quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Knowing what food is good for dogs with diarrhea can make a big difference in your pet’s recovery. A bland, easily digestible diet featuring boiled chicken, rice, pumpkin, and bone broth can help settle their stomach and restore balance.

With careful monitoring and gradual transition back to their normal diet, most dogs recover quickly.

Always stay vigilant for signs of a more serious condition, and don’t hesitate to contact your vet when needed. Your dog’s comfort, hydration, and nutrition are the cornerstones of a quick and safe recovery.