Safe Home Remedies for Dog Diarrhea
When your dog suddenly comes down with diarrhea, it’s natural to feel worried — and eager to help them feel better fast. The good news? Many mild cases can be safely and effectively managed at home with simple, vet-approved remedies. Understanding which treatments are safe (and which ones to avoid) can give you confidence during stressful moments and help your dog recover faster.
This guide walks you through the most effective at-home remedies to use when your dog has an upset stomach or loose stool.
1. Start With a Short Fasting Period (For Adult Dogs Only)
Giving your dog’s digestive system a break can help calm inflammation and allow the intestines to rest. Vets commonly recommend:
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12 hours of fasting for small dogs
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12–24 hours for medium and large dogs
Never fast:
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Puppies
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Senior dogs
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Very small breeds
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Dogs with underlying medical issues
If you’re unsure, always reach out to your vet first.
2. Offer Plenty of Fresh Water and Hydration Support
Diarrhea can cause dehydration quicker than many owners expect. Make sure your dog has:
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Fresh, clean water at all times
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Frequent small sips rather than one large gulp
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Optional electrolyte solutions formulated for pets (avoid human electrolyte drinks unless approved by your vet)
A dehydrated dog may show signs like dry gums, sunken eyes, or low energy—those require a vet visit.
3. Introduce a Bland Diet to Soothe the Stomach
After the fasting period, a bland diet is the go-to remedy to help firm stools and settle the GI tract.
Common vet-approved bland diet options include:
Boiled Chicken & White Rice
Light, low in fat, and easy to digest.
Use boneless, skinless chicken breast and thoroughly cooked white rice.
Boiled Turkey & Rice
Lean ground turkey can be a great alternative protein for sensitive dogs.
Boiled Chicken & Mashed Potatoes
Plain, without butter or seasonings. Good for dogs needing more calories.
Plain Canned Pumpkin (Not Pie Filling!)
Pumpkin adds fiber to help firm stools and regulate digestion.
Start with 1–2 teaspoons for small dogs and 1–2 tablespoons for large dogs.
Prescription GI Diets
If your dog has known sensitivities or frequent tummy issues, a vet-formulated intestinal diet may be the best option.
Feed bland meals in small portions 3–4 times a day until stool firms.
4. Try Probiotics to Restore Gut Balance
Probiotics can help regulate your dog’s gut microbiome, reduce inflammation, and support healthy bacteria.
Use a dog-specific probiotic, not a human one.
Common forms include:
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Powders
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Chewable tablets
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Capsules
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Fortified treats
Probiotics are especially helpful after:
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Stress
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Antibiotic use
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Dietary changes
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Minor GI infections
5. Slippery Elm: A Natural, Soothing Herb
Slippery elm is widely used in holistic veterinary medicine because it:
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Coats and soothes the stomach lining
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Reduces inflammation
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Helps firm the stool
You can find it as:
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Powders
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Capsules
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Mix-in pastes
Always use a pet-safe product and check the correct dosage with your vet.
6. Bone Broth for Hydration & Gut Support
Homemade (or store-bought dog-safe) bone broth is gentle, nourishing, and hydrating. It works well during recovery when dogs may be hesitant to eat.
Avoid bone broths with:
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Onion
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Garlic
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Seasonings
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Added sodium
Warm broth poured over bland meals can also entice picky eaters.
7. Avoid Over-the-Counter Human Medications
Medications like Pepto-Bismol, Imodium, or human antacids can be dangerous for dogs and sometimes worsen the condition.
Only give medications your veterinarian approves.
8. Monitor Stool, Energy Levels, and Eating Habits
Your dog should begin improving within 24–48 hours if it’s a mild case. Keep a close eye on:
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Stool firmness
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Frequency
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Water intake
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Activity level
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Willingness to eat
If diarrhea continues or worsens, it’s time for veterinary care.
When Home Remedies Aren’t Enough
Seek professional help if your dog shows:
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Persistent diarrhea for more than 2 days
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Blood in stool
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Vomiting and diarrhea together
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Signs of dehydration
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Extreme lethargy
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Diarrhea in puppies or senior dogs
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Known medical conditions
Always trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, call your vet right away.
Final Thoughts
Home remedies can make a world of difference when your dog is dealing with diarrhea or an upset belly. By using gentle, vet-approved strategies like a bland diet, probiotics, hydration support, and stomach-soothing herbs, you can guide your dog through a quick, comfortable recovery.