What do I feed a puppy with diarrhea?

Answered by Jarrod Smith

When it comes to feeding a puppy with diarrhea, it’s important to introduce bland foods that are gentle on their stomach. These foods help to soothe the digestive system and promote normal bowel movements. One option is to offer your puppy white rice, which is easily digestible and can help firm up their stool. Cook the rice according to package instructions and serve it plain, without any seasonings or additives.

Another bland food you can try is boiled chicken. Boiling the chicken helps to remove any excess fat and makes it easier for your puppy to digest. Make sure to remove the skin and bones before serving it to your furry friend. You can shred the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces and mix it with the cooked rice. This combination provides a good balance of carbohydrates and protein.

In addition to rice and chicken, you can also offer your puppy some vegetable broth. This can be made by simmering vegetables like carrots and celery in water until they become soft and tender. Strain the broth to remove any solid pieces and let it cool before serving it to your puppy. Vegetable broth helps to keep your puppy hydrated and provides some essential nutrients.

To help regulate your puppy’s bowel movements, it’s important to include fiber-rich foods in their diet. Cooked sweet potato is a great option as it is high in fiber and can help bulk up their stool. You can peel and dice the sweet potato, then boil or steam it until it becomes soft. Let it cool before serving it to your puppy.

Another fiber-rich option is canned pumpkin. Make sure to use plain canned pumpkin without any added sugars or spices. Pumpkin is not only high in fiber but also contains natural enzymes that can help soothe the digestive system. Start by offering a small amount of pumpkin mixed with their regular food and gradually increase the quantity as tolerated.

In addition to adjusting their diet, it’s essential to replenish your puppy’s gut health. Diarrhea can disrupt the balance of good bacteria in their digestive system, so giving them probiotics can be beneficial. Probiotics are available in various forms such as powders, capsules, chews, and even in yogurt or kefir. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate probiotic product and dosage for your puppy.

Remember to monitor your puppy’s condition closely and consult with your veterinarian if the diarrhea persists or worsens. They may need to conduct further examinations to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.