Diarrhea in dogs is common and often caused by diet changes, stress, mild infections, spoiled food, or sensitive digestion. In most mild cases, the right food can help calm the stomach and support recovery.
This guide explains what to feed a dog with diarrhea, including cases with vomiting, bloody stools, and homemade food options, plus what to avoid and when to call a vet.
What to Feed a Dog With Diarrhea (Safe, Vet-Approved Guidance)
If your dog has diarrhea but is alert, drinking water, and not in severe pain, a bland, low-fat diet is usually the safest option.
✅ Best Foods to Feed a Dog With Diarrhea
- Boiled white rice (plain, no salt or butter)
- Boiled skinless chicken breast (no seasoning)
- Plain canned pumpkin (100% pumpkin, not pie filling)
- Boiled potatoes (plain and peeled)
- Low-fat cottage cheese (small amounts)
👉 Feed small portions, 2–3 times per day, and provide fresh water at all times.
What to Feed a Dog With Diarrhea and Vomiting
If diarrhea comes with vomiting:
- Stop food for 8–12 hours (water only, small sips)
- Once vomiting stops, offer:
- Boiled chicken + white rice
- Tiny amounts of pumpkin
- Slowly increase portions over 2–3 days
❗ If vomiting continues, contact a veterinarian.
What to Feed a Dog With Bloody Diarrhea
Bloody diarrhea is an emergency.
- Contact a vet immediately
- Do not introduce new foods unless advised
- Keep your dog hydrated only
Bloody stools may signal infection, parasites, or intestinal injury.
What to Feed a Dog With Diarrhea (Homemade Options)
Homemade food is often helpful for short-term digestive upset.
Safe Homemade Dog Food for Diarrhea:
- 70% boiled white rice
- 30% boiled lean protein (chicken or turkey)
- Optional: 1–2 teaspoons pumpkin
How Long to Feed:
- 2–3 days
- Slowly transition back to regular food
Foods to Avoid When Your Dog Has Diarrhea
Avoid these completely during recovery:
- Fatty or fried foods
- Milk, cheese, cream
- Table scraps
- Raw food
- Treats and flavored chews
- Sudden food changes
These foods can worsen diarrhea and delay healing.
Helpful Amazon Product Recommendations
These products are commonly used by dog owners for digestive support (check suitability for your dog):
- Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin (Dry or Wet)
→ Gentle on digestion, vet-recommended - Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach
→ Easy-to-digest protein and probiotics - Bernie’s Perfect Poop (Pumpkin + Fiber Supplement)
→ Supports stool firmness naturally - Nutramax Proviable Probiotics for Dogs
→ Helps restore healthy gut bacteria
👉 Always follow feeding instructions and introduce new foods gradually.
How Long Does Dog Diarrhea Last?
- Mild diarrhea: 24–48 hours
- Diet-related issues: 1–3 days
- Longer than 48 hours → vet visit recommended
Puppies, senior dogs, and small breeds should be monitored more closely.
When to Call a Vet Immediately
Contact a vet if:
- Diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours
- There is blood in stool
- Your dog is lethargic or dehydrated
- The dog is a puppy or senior
- Diarrhea keeps returning
⚠️ Bloody diarrhea is serious and may indicate infection, parasites, poisoning, or intestinal damage.
What You Should Do:
- Contact a veterinarian immediately
- Do NOT feed new foods without guidance
- Keep your dog hydrated only unless advised otherwise
If a Vet Approves Feeding:
- Plain boiled chicken
- White rice
- Electrolyte solution made for dogs
Quick Tip Summary
- Bland food helps calm the stomach
- Small meals work better than large portions
- Hydration is critical
- Bloody diarrhea needs urgent care
- Transition slowly back to regular food
Frequently Asked Questions (Perfect for SEO)
Can I give my dog rice for diarrhea?
Yes, plain boiled white rice is one of the most commonly recommended foods.
Is pumpkin good for dogs with diarrhea?
Yes, plain pumpkin helps firm stools and supports digestion.
Should I stop feeding my dog if they have diarrhea?
In mild cases, no. In vomiting cases, a short food break may help.
Vet-Recommended Resources
1. PetMD – What To Feed a Dog With Diarrhea
A detailed, vet-written guide on feeding dogs with diarrhea, including bland diets, fasting guidelines, and when to call a vet.
👉 https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/what-to-feed-a-dog-with-diarrhea
This is authored and reviewed by credentialed veterinarians and used by many pet owners and professionals alike.
2. PangoVet – What to Feed a Dog With Diarrhea (Expert Advice)
Veterinarian-oriented article explaining feeding choices, when to see a vet, and safe diet changes for diarrhea.
👉 https://resources.pangovet.com/dogs/dogs/what-to-feed-a-dog-with-diarrhea/
PangoVet articles are written by professionals and focused on practical pet health tips.
3. Scottsdale Veterinary Clinic – Feeding a Dog With Diarrhea
Practical feeding steps, hydration advice, probiotics, prescription diet recommendations, and intermittent fasting details.
👉 https://www.scottsdaleveterinaryclinic.com/services/dogs/blog/feeding-dog-diarrhea-veterinarians-advice
Good reference for hydration and feeding protocols, particularly for dog owners.
📄 Downloadable Resources & Handouts
4. Dog Diarrhea General Care PDF
A free, vet-informed PDF covering causes, simple care steps, and dietary suggestions (cooling bland diet, hydration basics).
👉 https://www.humananimalsupportservices.org/wp-content/uploads/General-Care-for-Diarrhea/General-Care-for-Diarrhea-Bloody-Stool.pdf
Useful to link or offer as downloadable guidance for your visitors.
5. Guide Dogs for the Blind – Puppy Diarrhea FAQ (PDF)
This PDF contains structured guidance and charts for identifying and managing puppy diarrhea, including stool scoring.
👉 https://www.guidedogs.com/uploads/files/Puppy-Raising-Guidebook/Diarrhea-FAQs.pdf
This is a credible training and health resource from a reputable canine organization.
6. Guide Dogs for the Blind – Puppy Diarrhea Kit Instructions (PDF)
Step-by-step home dietary instructions for puppies with diarrhea, including homemade diet ratios and transition guidelines.
👉 https://www.guidedogs.com/uploads/files/Puppy-Raising-Guidebook/Diarrhea-Kit_All.pdf
Great for linking to pages about puppy feeding and digestive care.
📘 Additional Credible Web Pages
7. Empire Ranch Veterinary Hospital – Dog Diarrhea Feeding Advice
In-clinic vet recommendations for bland diets, transitions, hydration, and stool recovery.
👉 https://empireranchvet.com/what-to-feed-a-dog-with-diarrhea-expert-advice-from-empire-ranch-veterinary-hospital/
Useful for broader, actionable veterinarian tips.