Diarrhea in dogs is not a disease itself but rather a symptom that something is not right with your dog’s health or gastrointestinal system. Diarrhea is the passing of unformed, frequent, and increased volume of stool. An occasional bout of diarrhea isn’t serious, but consistent diarrhea demands the attention of a veterinarian and puts the dog in danger of dehydration– something that can be fatal to your dog.

The Danger of Diarrhea in Dogs– Dehydration

A lot of water is lost from the dog’s system when passing frequent watery motions so watch your dog for symptoms of dehydration. Sticky or dry gums can often indicate dehydration. Encourage him to drink plenty of water or Lectade may be given. Lectade, an oral re-hydration therapy for cats and dogs can be used to reverse the effects of dehydration and loss of electrolytes following diarrhea. In the first 24 hours this should be given at the rate of 8-30mls every half hour by mouth. For example a small toy dog would require 8mls and a large dog such as a German Shepherd would require 30mls.

Primary Cause of Diarrhea in Dogs

Although parasites and disease can cause diarrhea, the most common cause is dietary. A sudden change in diet could cause a bout of diarrhea. Often cheaper brand dog foods can cause diarrhea as can a sudden change in diet. Feed your dog a good high quality diet with the best food you can afford. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations. Trying to save money on dog food now could end up costing you more in the form of higher vet bills. Diarrhea can also be caused by dairy intake in dogs due to lactose intolerance. Dogs and puppies do not need to be given milk to drink.

Immediate Treatment for Diarrhea in Dogs

Withhold food (but not water) for 24 hours (12 hours for young puppies) to give your dog’s digestive system a rest. Then feed him a bland diet of 50% boiled rice and 50% chicken or 50/50 boiled rice and cooked hamburger for the next two to three days. If the diarrhea doesn’t resolve seek advice from your vet.

A Surprising Remedy for Diarrhea in Dogs

Believe it or not, fresh pumpkin cooked and mashed or canned pureed pumpkin (ONLY the 100% natural canned pumpkin, not pie filling) can work wonders for both the occasional bout of diarrhea or for the opposite, constipation in dogs. It has been reported that it firms up dog’s loose stools or diarrhea within a few hours.

The amount of pumpkin you give depends on the size of the dog but as a general rule, a couple of teaspoons a day for a small dog or a couple of tablespoons a day for a large dog should do the trick. Keep in mind, you may have to disguise it in a little of your dog’s favorite food.

Remember– an occasional bout of diarrhea is probably not serious and can probably be treated as described above if you remember the main enemy is dehydration. However one or two days of diarrhea is a serious matter and should be handled by your veterinarian as soon as possible.

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