Natural Remedies for Diarrhea in Puppies

By Glyn Sheridan

Overview

Diarrhea is not uncommon in puppies, especially if you introduce a new brand of dog food or if they get into the garbage. Your puppy's natural defense system rushes the offending substance through his stomach and intestines without stopping to digest, resulting in loose or watery stools. Occasional mild diarrhea may respond to natural remedies.

Feeding

Wait for 24 hours before feeding your puppy, suggests "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Dogs and Cats," to allow his irritated digestive system to heal. (Reference 1, p. 177) However, encourage your puppy to drink lots of water to reduce the risk of dehydration.

Diet

When you reintroduce food, start with small amounts of bland, easily digestible fare. Cooked white rice, boiled chicken breasts or boiled hamburger will soothe your puppy's stomach, or choose cooked pasta, canned pumpkin puree or mashed potatoes. Make sure all food items are free from salt, sugar and other seasonings. Avoid feeding your puppy dairy products. (Reference 1, p. 178, 79)

Fiber

Dietary fiber, such as Metamucil, absorbs water in the stomach and may help firm up your puppy's loose stools. For a medium-size puppy, choose unflavored and unsweetened dietary fiber and add 1 tsp to a small amount of water before pouring it over bland food. For a toy breed, use slightly less, and double the amount for a large- or a giant-breed puppy. (Reference 1, p. 179)

Exercise

If your puppy is up for it, take him for a short walk once or twice a day. The portion of the nervous system responsible for maintaining normal digestion may be stimulated by mild exercise. However, if your puppy's energy level is low, allow him to rest. (Reference 1, p. 179)

De-stress

Emotional upheaval can trigger a diarrhea episode. If you just brought your new puppy home or you introduced a new pet to the family, the stress on your puppy could result in loose stools. Take the time to reassure your puppy and help him adjust to the new situation. (Reference 1, p. 180)

Call the vet

While many bouts of puppy diarrhea can be easily treated at home, prolonged diarrhea or the presence of additional symptoms, such as a fever, pain or lethargy should be examined by a veterinarian. (Reference 1, p. 178)

Comments (3)

Jan 12, 2010 Finny McGinny

My puppy had chronic diarrhea for months. We added 1/4 cup of canned pumpkin to each meal, and it cleared up in a day. He loved eating the pumpkin as well.

Feb 18, 2010 LittleK

Pumpkin is a great natural remedy for puppies and dogs. I have heard that it always works. Especially on pomeranians, with their sensitive tummies, it is what I always recommend first thing.

May 27, 2010 nodbt33

I was told by a vet that the best thing to harden the stool is plain low fat yogurt, along with white rice and plain cottage cheese all mixed together.

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