Has your furry friend’s tummy been upset lately, leading to messy accidents and worried glances? Seeing your dog struggle with diarrhea can be stressful for both of you. You want to help them feel better quickly, but figuring out what to feed them when their digestive system is sensitive feels like a puzzle.
The world of dog food can be overwhelming, and when your dog has diarrhea, the stakes feel even higher. You might be wondering what ingredients are safe, what will soothe their stomach, and what will actually help them recover. It’s tough to navigate all the different brands and claims when all you want is for your dog to feel comfortable and healthy again.
In this post, we’ll break down the essentials of choosing the best food for your dog when they have diarrhea. We’ll explore simple, gentle options that can help settle their stomach and get them back to their happy, energetic selves. You’ll learn what to look for and what to avoid, making your next trip to the pet store much easier.
Top Food For Dog With Diarrhea Recommendations
No. 1
KOHA Limited Ingredient Bland Diet for Dogs, Chicken and White Rice Sensitive Stomach Wet Dog Food, Sold in Over 5,000 Vet Clinics & Pet Stores, Gentle Easy to Digest Bland Diet Dog Food, Pack of 6
- NO COOKING NECESSARY: When your vet suggests feeding your dog a bland chicken and white rice diet, there's no need to waste time cooking. KOHA Bland Diet is convenient and ready-to-serve!
- PERFECT FOR SENSITIVE STOMACHS: KOHA Bland Diet is ideal for dogs struggling with loose stool, diarrhea, and upset stomach. This gently formulated limited ingredient dog food has just one protein source (chicken) for easy digestion. It also includes white rice and pumpkin to support healthy stools and regularity.
- FEED DAILY OR USE AS A TOPPER: This bland diet for dogs can be fed exclusively to your pup, or be used as a topper to enhance their current diet.
- FOR CHRONIC UPSET STOMACH OR FLAREUPS: Whether your dog suffers from chronic digestive issues, or is experiencing a flareup from things like stress, medication, or travel, KOHA Bland Diet can be fed to help get their tummy back on track!
- NO FILLERS OR ARTIFICIAL INGREDIENTS: KOHA Bland Diet uses only the most high quality ingredients. This sensitive stomach dog food is free from junky fillers like peas, potatoes, corn, soy or artificial preservatives that can cause digestive issues.
No. 2
Vetality Stop The Runs | Dog Anti Diarrhea Medicine | 6 Count Chewable | Chicken Flavor
- NO MORE ACCIDENTS – Stop the Runs helps your dog avoid messy mistakes in your home and provides a dog diarrhea remedy that will give your pet fast relief. When your dog won’t stop pooping, you need Stop the Runs.
- SAFE AND EFFECTIVE – Stop the Runs Anti Diarrhea Chewable is an all-natural treatment that is safe for dogs and puppies of all ages and sizes. Natural ingredients like Bentonite, Prebiotics, and Electrolytes to support your puppy’s gut health.
- SUPPORT HEALTHY BOWEL FUNCTION – Vetality Stop the Runs is a dog anti diarrhea medicine that won’t break the bank and get your dog back to being healthy and happy.
- NATURAL DIARRHEA REMEDY – Vetality Stop the Runs helps turn your dogs' stool from loose to firm quickly. Stop the Runs helps relieve your dog’s bloating and gas, indigestion, loose stool, and bowel movements, so they can have more energy and get back to being their happy self.
- FAST ACTING, GREAT TASTING ANTI DIARRHEA TREATMENT – When your dog has diarrhea, you need it stop FAST. Stop the Runs goes to work instantly so your dog—and you—gets fast relief. Dogs love the chicken and apple flavors, making Stop the Runs a no-hassle treatment.
No. 3
Nutrish Gentle Digestion Premium Paté Wet Dog Food, Real Chicken, Pumpkin & Salmon Recipe, 13 oz. Can, 12 Count (Rachael Ray)
- WET DOG FOOD FOR ADULT DOGS: Contains twelve (12) 13-ounce cans of premium wet dog food paté with real chicken as the #1 ingredient and a good source of protein that helps support healthy organs
- HEALTHY DIGESTION: Gentle digestion dog food with fiber from pumpkin, peas and carrots supports a healthy digestion
- NO ARTIFICIAL PRESERVATIVES OR FLAVORS: Dog food formulated with no poultry by-product meal, added corn, wheat, soy or gluten ingredients
- NATURAL DOG FOOD: Natural food for adult dogs with added vitamins, minerals and nutrients
- RACHAEL RAY NUTRISH IS NOW NUTRISH: Every purchase helps support animals in need through The Rachael Ray Foundation
No. 4
Under the Weather Bland Diet for Dogs | Easy to Digest for Sick Dogs | Always Be Ready | Contains Electrolytes - All Natural Freeze Dried 100% Human Grade Meats | 1 Pack - Chicken, Rice - 6oz
- NO MORE COOKING - JUST ADD WATER! When dogs experience digestive upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, vets recommend feeding a “bland diet” to soothe the digestive tract until normal digestion is restored. Shelf life: 36 months from manufacturing date. EXP date Printed on the back of the pouch near the bottom seal as EXP MM/YY.
- OUR AWARD-WINNING BLAND DIET is freeze dried and contains white rice, and 100% human grade white meat chicken, raised cage free with NO antibiotics or hormones. Enhanced with a powerful electrolyte blend to boost hydration and energy.
- VET-FORMULATED AND VET RECOMMENDED - Freeze dried bland diets soothe your pup's tummy during times of digestive upset, including travel, surgery, medications, and changes in daily routine. Bland Diets can also be used as a topper to help ease your dog’s transition back to their regular diet.
- CONVENIENCE - Just add water and this freeze-dried formula re-hydrates in minutes! With a 3-year shelf life, being prepared with a quick and healthy meal solution for when your dog is feeling under the weather, has never been easier! Keep a few Bland Diets in your pantry so when a digestive issue develops, you can skip the prep and get your pup feeling better faster!
- MANUFACTURED IN THE USA - With only the highest quality human grade ingredients, FREE OF By-Products, Gluten, Artificial Flavors, and Dies.
No. 5
Fruitables Pumpkin Digestive Supplement, Made with Pumpkins for Dogs, Healthy Fiber Supplement for Pet Nutrition, Packed with Superfoods, 15 oz
- SUPPORTS DOG DIGESTIVE SUPPORT & REGULARITY: Made with natural pumpkin for dogs, this supplement delivers fiber for dogs & helps maintain healthy digestion, supports dog gut health, and provides gentle constipation relief for dogs
- HELPS WITH DOG UPSET STOMACH RELIEF: The perfect blend of dog pumpkin puree & fruit & veggie fibers provides dog tummy relief & aids in dog upset stomach relief; great for occasional digestive issues or sensitive stomachs to help your pup feel their best
- GENTLE FIBER SUPPLEMENT FOR DOGS & CATS: Ideal pumpkin for cats and canned pumpkin for dogs, this versatile formula offers natural diarrhea relief for dogs and constipation relief for dogs, supporting balanced digestion without harsh additives or fillers
- NATURAL SUPPORT FOR DOG & CAT DIGESTIVE HEALTH: Made with pure pumpkin for dogs and is an effective firm up pumpkin for dogs solution; perfect for pet parents seeking a trusted, natural way to promote pumpkin for dogs digestion and cat constipation relief
- TRUSTED QUALITY FOR PET HEALTH: A safe addition to your pet dog supplies; promotes gut health for dogs, supports stool quality, and contributes to overall dog health, making it an essential tool for achieving that “perfect poop” goal every pet owner loves
No. 6
Blue Buffalo True Solutions Digestive Care Natural Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Chicken, 4-lb. Bag
- DIGESTIVE CARE FORMULA: This natural dog food helps maintain stool quality and digestive health with clinically proven prebiotic fiber
- FORMULATED BY VETERINARIANS & ANIMAL NUTRITIONISTS: True Solutions offers natural nutrition with clinically proven ingredients recommended by veterinarians
- REAL CHICKEN FIRST: This Blue Buffalo dog food is made in the USA with real, high-quality chicken as the #1 ingredient
- HEALTHY, WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: Blue Buffalo natural dog food is made with no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and no corn, wheat, or soy
- PACKAGING MAY VARY: Contains one (1) 4-lb. bag of BLUE True Solutions Digestive Care Dry Dog Food, formerly Blissful Belly
No. 7
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food, Chicken, 4 lb. Bag
- Triple support for stomach, skin and immune system health
- Highly digestible formula with prebiotic fiber that is gentle on the stomach for optimal nutrient absorption
- Enriched with Vitamin E and Omega-3 & 6 fatty acids, for healthy skin and a lustrous coat
- Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, for a healthy immune system
- 27 key nutrients, including essential vitamins, minerals, and omega 3 & 6 fatty acids. Complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs’ health
No. 8
Blue Buffalo True Solutions Digestive Care Wet Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Made with Natural Ingredients, Chicken, 12.5-oz. Cans (12 Count)
- REAL MEAT FIRST: This canned soft wet dog food is made with real, high-quality chicken as the first ingredient
- GENTLE ON THEIR STOMACH: This canned dog food for sensitive stomachs is clinically proven to support digestive health with prebiotic fiber, as well as help maintain stool quality
- BALANCED NUTRITION: BLUE sensitive stomach dog food features antioxidant-rich ingredients, such as apples, plus omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to nourish their skin
- WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: BLUE True Solutions wet dog food contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and is free from corn, wheat, and soy
- Contains: Twelve (12) 12.5-oz cans of BLUE True Solutions Blissful Belly Digestive Care Wet Dog Food, Chicken
Choosing the Right Food for Your Dog’s Upset Tummy
When your furry friend isn’t feeling well, especially with diarrhea, you want to give them the best. Finding the right food can be a lifesaver. This guide will help you navigate the options and pick the perfect meal to soothe their tummy.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for dog food for diarrhea, keep these important features in mind.
- Easily Digestible Ingredients: Look for foods with simple, easy-to-digest ingredients. Things like chicken, rice, and sweet potatoes are usually good choices. Avoid foods with a lot of fillers or ingredients that are hard for dogs to break down.
- Limited Ingredient Diets (LID): These foods have fewer ingredients. This makes it easier to figure out if a specific ingredient is causing the upset. LIDs are great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Probiotics and Prebiotics: These are good for your dog’s gut health. Probiotics are live good bacteria that help balance the tummy. Prebiotics are food for these good bacteria.
- Low Fat Content: High-fat foods can be hard on a dog’s digestive system. Choose foods that are lower in fat to help ease diarrhea.
- Soothing Ingredients: Some foods include ingredients like pumpkin or psyllium husk. These can help add bulk to the stool and absorb excess water, which is helpful for diarrhea.
Important Materials
The quality of the ingredients matters a lot.
- High-Quality Protein Sources: Look for named protein sources like “chicken” or “turkey” instead of vague terms like “meat by-products.” This means the protein is of better quality.
- Whole Grains or Grain-Free Options: Some dogs do well with easily digestible grains like white rice. Others might need grain-free options. Pay attention to what your dog usually eats and how they react.
- Natural Flavors and Colors: Artificial ingredients can sometimes upset a dog’s stomach. Opt for foods that use natural flavors and colors.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all dog foods are created equal. Here’s what makes a difference.
- Research and Development: Brands that invest in research for pet nutrition often create better-quality foods. They understand what dogs need.
- Veterinarian Recommendations: Foods recommended by veterinarians are usually a safe bet. Vets know what works for common health issues like diarrhea.
- Freshness: Always check the expiration date. Fresher food is usually more nutritious and easier to digest.
- Avoidance of Artificial Additives: Artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors can sometimes cause digestive upset. High-quality foods avoid these.
- Manufacturing Practices: Reputable companies have strict quality control during manufacturing. This ensures the food is safe and consistent.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do other dog owners find these foods?
- Quick Relief: Many owners report seeing improvements in their dog’s stool within a day or two of switching to a specialized diet.
- Long-Term Gut Health: Some foods are not just for emergencies. They can be used long-term to maintain a healthy digestive system.
- Transitioning Food: It’s important to introduce new food slowly. Mix a little of the new food with the old food over several days. This helps prevent further tummy upset.
- For Picky Eaters: Even when they have an upset stomach, dogs still need to eat. Many of these foods are made to be palatable, so your dog will actually eat them.
- After Illness or Stress: These foods are excellent for dogs recovering from illness, after surgery, or when they experience stress that causes digestive issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Food for Diarrhea
Q: What is the most important thing to look for in dog food for diarrhea?
A: The most important thing is easily digestible ingredients. This helps your dog’s tummy recover faster.
Q: Can I feed my dog regular dog food if they have diarrhea?
A: It’s usually best to switch to a specialized diet. Regular food might contain ingredients that are too hard to digest when your dog is sick.
Q: How quickly should I see improvement?
A: Many dogs start to show improvement within 24-48 hours of switching to a suitable diet.
Q: Should I add anything to my dog’s food?
A: Sometimes adding plain, cooked pumpkin (not pie filling) or a probiotic supplement can help. Always ask your vet first.
Q: What ingredients should I avoid?
A: Avoid high-fat ingredients, artificial additives, and complex proteins that are hard to digest. Things like corn, soy, and by-products can sometimes be problematic.
Q: How do I switch my dog to a new food?
A: Gradually mix the new food with their old food over 5-7 days. Start with 25% new food and 75% old food, and slowly increase the new food amount.
Q: Are limited ingredient diets good for diarrhea?
A: Yes, limited ingredient diets are excellent. They help identify and avoid potential triggers for digestive upset.
Q: Can I feed my dog human food for diarrhea?
A: While some bland human foods like boiled chicken and white rice can be helpful in the short term, it’s best to use a specially formulated dog food for complete nutrition and balanced digestion.
Q: My dog has chronic diarrhea. What should I do?
A: If your dog has ongoing diarrhea, it’s crucial to see your veterinarian. They can diagnose the cause and recommend the best long-term treatment, which may include a prescription diet.
Q: How long should my dog eat this special food?
A: This depends on your dog’s condition. Some dogs only need it for a few days, while others might benefit from it longer. Always follow your vet’s advice.