Best Diarrhea Medicine for Dogs & How to Treat It [2025]

Welcome to the comprehensive guide on the best diarrhea medicine for dogs (and other treatment methods)! Diarrhea is a common ailment among our furry companions, and finding the right treatment–whether it’s diarrhea medicine or otherwise–can be a challenge. 

Explore the most effective ways to alleviate diarrhea in dogs, along with insights into the underlying causes of sensitive stomachs. Dive into expert tips on managing your pet's diet to promote digestive wellness before resorting to medication with potential side effects. 

Whether your dog is experiencing acute or chronic diarrhea, we're here to provide the information you need to help them feel better and thrive.

 

What Causes Diarrhea in Dogs?

Diarrhea in dogs can be triggered by many factors, including sudden changes in diet, food allergies or intolerances, bacterial or viral infections, parasites, or the ingestion of toxic substances. Chronic or recurring diarrhea may point to underlying health issues like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), pancreatitis, or other gastrointestinal conditions.

Certain foods can also trigger diarrhea in dogs due to their difficulty in digesting the ingredients, such as:

• Fatty or spicy items
• Dairy products
• Human food scraps, especially high in fat or sugar

It's essential to avoid feeding these foods and stick to a balanced diet formulated specifically for your dog's nutritional needs.

KOHA Limited Ingredient Dog Food is specially formulated for pets with sensitive stomachs. Each dog food recipe is made with one animal protein and pumpkin to support healthy stools and regularity. It's also free from junky fillers  that can cause digestive upset. These recipes support healthy stool consistency and simplify your dog's diet to minimize potential allergic reactions or digestive issues. If your dog has an upset stomach, try KOHA Bland Diet Dog Food to help soothe your pet’s sensitive stomach. Made with a single animal protein, rice, and pumpkin, this dog food diet supports gentle digestion while delivering complete, balanced nutrition. 

Explore KOHA Bland Diet for Dogs

 

How Does Diarrhea Medicine Work For Dogs? 

 

Diarrhea medicine for dogs typically works by addressing the underlying cause of the diarrhea such as food allergies or intolerances, bacterial or viral infections, dietary indiscretions (eating something inappropriate or spoiled), parasites, IBD, stress, medications, or certain medical conditions. 

Diarrhea medicine for dogs may contain ingredients such as kaolin, pectin, or bismuth subsalicylate to help absorb excess fluids in the intestines and firm up stools. Some medications may also include probiotics to restore healthy gut flora and promote digestion. 

Depending on the severity of the diarrhea and its cause, your veterinarian may recommend specific medications tailored to your dog's needs. They may also suggest you begin treatment with sensitive stomach dog food.

KOHA Bland Diet Dog Food is a limited-ingredient solution for dogs with sensitive stomachs, offering both wet and dry recipes. Each wet food recipe includes a single animal protein—Chicken, Beef, or Lamb—and features fiber-rich pumpkin and white rice to support healthy digestion and regular stools. 

Its soft texture is ideal for senior dogs, and it can be served as a complete meal or used as a nourishing mixer. These highly digestible recipes are great solutions for dogs with digestive issues or skin irritations caused by certain ingredients. 

In addition to wet food, KOHA Limited Ingredient Bland Diet Dry Food is another gentle option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Each dry food recipe is made with either beef or chicken, and includes fiber-rich ingredients, such as brown rice and pumpkin, to support healthy stools. 

This dry formula delivers all the benefits of a bland diet in a complete, balanced, and ready-to-serve kibble. To top it off, every piece is coated in flavorful bone broth, making it irresistibly tasty for even the pickiest eaters. With KOHA, pet parents can feel confident they're providing balanced meals tailored for sensitive stomachs.

Try KOHA Limited Ingredient Bland Diet Dog Food

 

Potential Side Effects of Dog Diarrhea Medicine

While diarrhea medicines for dogs are generally safe when used as directed, they may still carry potential side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, regurgitation, decreased appetite, tiredness, and drooling. In some cases, dogs can experience allergic reactions to certain ingredients in the medication. 

It's crucial to closely monitor your dog for any adverse reactions and consult with your veterinarian if you notice any concerning symptoms. 

Many pet parents may opt for using medications as a last resort–and first try treating diarrhea naturally. For example, food-based remedies, such as bland diet recipes, are natural and gentle on your dog's digestive system, reducing the risk of adverse reactions associated with medications. 

This kind of dietary adjustment isn’t just helpful for short-term upsets; it’s also beneficial for chronic issues, such as IBD or food-related allergies. Rather than simply masking symptoms, it works to address the root cause and promote long-term digestive health.

In addition, these food-based treatments provide essential nutrients and hydration, helping your dog recover while supporting their overall wellness. Opting for food-based remedies can offer a safer and more holistic approach to managing your dog's diarrhea, ensuring their comfort and well-being without unnecessary risks.

KOHA Bland Diet Dog Food is a great alternative if your pet is experiencing negative side effects from diarrhea medicine. Each recipe contains only one animal protein, making it ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs, Plus, rice and pumpkin support stool regularity and help maintain a balanced, healthy digestive system for your dog.

KOHA Bland Diet Dog Food is a natural solution to support your dog’s digestion, offering an effective alternative to diarrhea medications without the common side effects.

Try KOHA Bland Diet Dog Food

 

Alternatives to Diarrhea Medicine for Dogs

Instead of immediately resorting to diarrhea medication for your dog, take the opportunity to explore a range of alternative approaches aimed at addressing the underlying causes of your dog's diarrhea, providing a more comprehensive approach to restoring your dog's digestive health and overall well-being.

1. Bland Diets for Dogs

Bland is best when it comes to feeding your dog. Rich or fatty foods can overwhelm their digestive tract, leading to irritation and inflammation, ultimately resulting in diarrhea. High-fat foods can also disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, further contributing to digestive upset in dogs.

KOHA’s Bland Diet recipes are cooked and ready to serve, including just one meat for easy digestion, and white rice and pumpkin to help support healthy stools and regularity. The gentle Bland Diet aids in alleviating symptoms of chronic upset stomach and digestive flare-ups. They are a great, soft meal option for senior dogs, or as a meal or mix-in for any pup!

 

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2. Limited Ingredient Diets

Taking charge of your dog's diet is vital for upholding their overall health and happiness. A well-balanced, bland, diet not only fuels proper growth, energy levels, and immune function but also fosters optimal gut health. 

A dog's diet can help alleviate diarrhea by providing easily digestible foods that soothe the stomach and firm up stools. For example, KOHA's Limited Ingredient Dog Food is carefully crafted to be easily digestible and gentle on your pet's stomach. 

Each recipe contains only one meat source, making it an ideal choice for dogs with food allergies or IBD. 

With a variety of irresistible flavors like duck, beef, lamb, turkey, salmon, and pork, mealtime will become a delightful experience for your dog once again. These novel protein choices include just one meat per recipe, aiding in easy digestion which is ideal for extreme food sensitivities. 

These irresistible shredded recipes, simmered in a savory broth, will tempt even the pickiest of pups.

Browse KOHA Limited Ingredient Dog Food

3. White Rice

The standard bland diet includes boiled, unseasoned white rice, providing important carbohydrates, essential for your dog's digestive system. White rice is easily digestible, helps to bind loose stools, and provides a source of energy without irritating the stomach, making it a gentle option for soothing gastrointestinal distress.

As a simple carbohydrate, rice provides essential energy without burdening the digestive system. When paired with lean proteins and fiber-rich vegetables, it creates a soothing, balanced meal that supports GI recovery. 

KOHA’s Bland Diet meals include either brown or white rice as foundational ingredients, making them ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Each recipe also features a single animal protein and fiber-rich ingredients like pumpkin to help improve stool quality. In addition, these meals are gently formulated and free from junky fillers, which can cause weight gain or an upset stomach.

Explore KOHA Bland Diet Dog Food

4. Pumpkin

Pumpkin is beneficial for dogs with diarrhea because it contains soluble fiber, which can absorb excess water in the digestive tract and firm up stools. Additionally, pumpkin is rich in nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E and potassium. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties can also help soothe and calm the digestive system, making it a gentle and effective remedy for dogs with diarrhea. 

KOHA’s Bland Dog Food is a great way to incorporate pumpkin into your dog’s diet. Unlike medications that can come with side effects, KOHA uses this natural ingredient to help manage symptoms while nourishing your dog from the inside out. Its easily digestible and antioxidant-rich properties help soothe an irritated digestive system and provide a gentle solution for dogs dealing with both acute and chronic diarrhea.

5. Brief Fasting

Short-term fasting is a helpful way to give your dog’s digestive system a chance to rest and reset. It’s especially useful after your dog has eaten something they shouldn’t have or is experiencing mild gastrointestinal upset. To begin fasting, withhold food for 12 to 24 hours, allowing the gut to calm down and start healing. 

During this period, it’s important to monitor your dog’s symptoms and ensure they have constant access to fresh water to prevent dehydration. Once the fast is over, gradually reintroduce food by offering small portions of a bland diet made with easily digestible ingredients. 

Keep in mind that fasting isn’t the right approach for every dog. Puppies, senior dogs, or those with existing health conditions may need a different plan, so it’s always best to consult your veterinarian before starting a fast.

6. Rest

Rest is just as important as diet when it comes to soothing your dog’s digestive symptoms. An upset stomach can leave your dog feeling tired, uncomfortable, or irritable. To support their healing, it’s best to limit physical activity and avoid exposing them to environmental stressors.

Start by creating a calm, quiet space where your dog can relax without interruption, and ensure it is clear of anything that normally causes your dog anxiety. Make sure this resting area is also clean, warm, and comfortable, with easy access to fresh water. A calm, low-stimulation environment gives their body the space it needs to heal properly and regain balance.

It’s also important to pay attention to their behavior and energy levels. Physical changes such as increased lethargy, restlessness, or worsening symptoms may signal that they need a visit to your veterinarian.

Monitoring your dog’s behavior and allowing them time to rest not only supports physical recovery but also helps reduce stress, which is closely tied to gut health.

Common Diarrhea Medicines for Dogs and Ingredients

If you’re still looking for dog diarrhea medicine, you can expect to find these common ingredients. Please note that we’re not veterinarians and these aren’t suggestions on what to take: every dog’s health is different. 

The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview to help you better understand the diarrhea medicine options available. Be sure to speak with your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication.

Kaolin-Pectin 

Kaolin-Pectin can be beneficial for dog diarrhea due to their ability to absorb excess water in the intestines and firm up stools. 

Kaolin clay, an aluminum silicate, acts as an adsorbent, binding to toxins and bacteria in the digestive tract and aiding in their removal from the body. Pectin, a soluble fiber found in fruits, adds bulk to stools and can help regulate bowel movements. 

Together, these ingredients can help alleviate diarrhea symptoms and promote digestive health in dogs.

Some dog anti-diarrhea medicines containing Kaolin, Pectin, or both:  

• Pro-pectalin Anti-Diarrheal Gel
• PET Pectillin Diarrhea Medication
• Nutri-Vet Anti-diarrhea Liquid
• Well & Good Dog Anti-Diarrhea Liquid
• Nutri-Vet Anti-Diarrhea Liquid Digestive Supplement for Dogs

Loperamide

Loperamide works by slowing down the movement of the intestines, allowing for more water and electrolytes to be absorbed, which helps to firm up stools and reduce diarrhea. This also helps to firm up stools and reduce the frequency of bowel movements. 

However, it's important to use loperamide under veterinary guidance, as improper use can lead to complications, and it may not be suitable for all dogs or types of diarrhea.

Some dog anti-diarrhea medicines with Loperamide: 

• Imodium 
• Diamode

Bismuth subsalicylate

Bismuth subsalicylate, better known as Pepto-Bismol, contains the active ingredient, salicylate, which is also found in the new formulation of Kaopectate. Bismuth subsalicylate is used to treat gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, indigestion, and nausea. 

It works by coating the stomach and intestines, reducing inflammation and irritation, and absorbing toxins. It also has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat certain types of bacterial infections that may be causing diarrhea. 

Dog anti-diarrhea medicines with Bismuth subsalicylate: 

• Pepto-bismol: Its active ingredient, bismuth subsalicylate, has mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to soothe the gastrointestinal tract and promote firmer stools.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics may be required if your dog’s diarrhea is caused by a bacterial infection, especially if symptoms include fever, lethargy, or bloody stools. These should never be administered without veterinary guidance, as inappropriate use can disrupt the gut microbiome or cause resistance. Vets often recommend probiotics alongside antibiotics to restore beneficial gut flora.

Antibiotics for dog diarrhea:

• Metronidazole
• Tylosin

Probiotics

Probiotics play a vital role in managing dog diarrhea by restoring gut balance, improving stool consistency, and strengthening immune function, particularly after antibiotic use, dietary upsets, or in chronic conditions like IBD. 

When choosing a probiotic supplement, look for one that contains strains like Enterococcus faecium or Lactobacillus acidophilus, which support healthy digestion and a balanced intestinal microbiome. 

Probiotics for dog diarrhea:

• Enterococcus faecium
• Lactobacillus acidophilus

Nootie Progility Pre & Probiotic Supplements for Dogs is an excellent source of the probiotics your dog needs. These supplements combine probiotics with prebiotics, digestive enzymes, and supportive ingredients like pumpkin, chicory root, amylase, saccharomyces cerevisiae, and protease. This blend helps support digestion, gut health, and intestinal well-being for your dog.

Try Nootie Progility Pre & Probiotic Supplements for Dogs

Dewormers

If parasites like roundworms, hookworms, or giardia are to blame for your dog’s diarrhea, they’ll need a dewormer. Signs include persistent diarrhea, visible worms in stool, or rapid weight loss. Most over-the-counter dewormers aren’t broad enough, so always get a proper diagnosis and prescription from your vet.

Dewormers for parasite-induced dog diarrhea:

• Fenbendazole
• Selamectin
• Milbemycin oxime
• Febantel
• Pyrantel pamoate
• Praziquantel
• Ivermectin

Other Diarrhea Medications for Dogs

Other diarrhea medicines for dogs have active ingredients including: 

• Carprofen
• Bentonite-Montmorillonite
• Hydrated Calcium Aluminosilicate Clay

 

How to Manage Your Dog’s Diarrhea 

Discover comprehensive techniques for managing your dog's diarrhea by prioritizing elements such as a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and the integration of prebiotics, probiotics, and additional supplements. 

Dive into the intricacies of each approach, empowering you to make informed decisions that promote your dog's gastrointestinal health and overall well-being.

1. Proper Diet

A proper diet plays a crucial role in managing dog diarrhea as it addresses the root cause of gastrointestinal distress, unlike medication, which often provides only temporary relief. By providing a balanced and easily digestible diet, you can soothe the digestive system, promote healthy gut flora, and address underlying dietary triggers, ultimately fostering long-term digestive health.

KOHA offers several diet types to help soothe your dog’s digestive system:

• Bland Diet Dog Food: Gentle dog food recipes that contain a single animal protein and fiber-rich ingredients to support healthy stools
• Limited Ingredient Diets: Simple dog food diets for pets struggling with food allergies or digestive issues
• Minimal Ingredient Stews: Moisture-rich dog food with easily digestible ingredients to support healthy digestion and joint health
• Novel Protein Dog Food: Unique meat options such as lamb or rabbit to address food sensitivities or allergies to common food ingredients

• Pure Shreds Dog Food Entrees: Low fat dog food recipes that contain shredded ingredients and superfoods to promote weight control and increased hydration

Choosing a diet specifically tailored to your dog’s sensitivities plays a vital role in supporting their digestive health and effectively managing diarrhea symptoms. With KOHA’s dog food recipes, pet parents can help promote lasting gut health and enhance their dog’s overall well-being.

Explore All KOHA Dog Food Recipes.

2. Hydration 

For dogs experiencing acute diarrhea, water is vital to prevent dehydration. This is particularly true in cases where vomiting accompanies the diarrhea, as this can exacerbate fluid loss and pose serious health risks. 

Ensuring your dog has access to ample water helps replenish lost fluids, maintain hydration levels, and support overall health during episodes of gastrointestinal distress.

2. Pre and Probiotics and Other Supplements 

Supplements can help manage your dog's diarrhea by providing additional support to their digestive system. Probiotics are one supplement containing beneficial bacteria, which can help restore balance to the gut microbiome. 

By replenishing the population of healthy bacteria in the intestines, probiotics aid in supporting digestion during times of stomach upset.

Prebiotics are beneficial for dogs with diarrhea because they act as a food source for beneficial bacteria in the gut. By supporting healthy bacteria, prebiotics help to restore balance to the intestinal microbiota, which can become disrupted during episodes of diarrhea. This enhances digestive function, improves stool consistency, and strengthens the immune system, ultimately aiding in the resolution of diarrhea in dogs.

In addition to probiotics, fiber supplements can further enhance digestive support. Fiber helps add bulk to the stool, making it easier for the intestines to pass waste and reducing the frequency of diarrhea—without causing constipation. Used together, probiotics and fiber supplements can create a well-rounded approach to managing digestive issues and promoting long-term gut health.

Nootie Progility Pre & Probiotic Chews are an effective way to support your dog’s digestive health. They combine probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes like lipase and amylase to help restore gut balance and support healthy digestion. These soft, flavorful chews are easy to give and well-loved by most dogs.

Order Nootie Progility Pre & Probiotics Supplements for Dogs

 

How to Prevent Diarrhea in Dogs

The best way to prevent diarrhea is to maintain a stable, healthy routine for your dog. One method is to feed a high-quality, nutrient-rich diet and avoid sudden changes in food, which can upset the digestive system. 

In addition to diet, it’s important to limit access to unsafe or spoiled foods, trash, table scraps, and anything they might pick up on walks to avoid food intolerances or allergic reactions. Chew toys and bones may also be harmful as they can splinter or cause blockages, so make sure to monitor your dog’s behavior during playtime and remove any torn-off pieces. 

Regular deworming, flea control, and vaccinations can also prevent diarrhea by reducing the risk of parasite-related digestive issues. Make sure to check in with your veterinarian to identify the best preventative treatments for your dog.

For dogs with recurring digestive issues, KOHA Bland Diet Wet Dog Food is a gentle solution to support your pet’s overall health. Its limited-ingredient formula contains gentle proteins, pumpkin, and white rice to support digestive balance and help minimize the risk of food allergies.

Try KOHA Bland Diet Dog Food.

 

When to See a Vet For Your Dog’s Diarrhea 

It's crucial to consult a veterinarian if your dog's diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or bloody stools. 

Additionally, if your dog is a young puppy, senior, or has an underlying health condition, prompt veterinary attention is warranted to prevent dehydration and complications. Seeking veterinary care ensures proper diagnosis and treatment tailored to your dog's specific needs, promoting a swift recovery and preventing potential health risks.

Learn More About the Best Diarrhea Medicine for Dogs

When does my dog need diarrhea medicine?

If your dog’s diarrhea lasts more than 24–48 hours, or they’re showing serious symptoms like vomiting, low energy, dehydration, or blood in their stool, it’s time to reach out to your vet. These signs could point to an infection, parasites, or another underlying health issue. In those cases, your vet might recommend medication and dietary changes to help your dog recover.

What’s the best anti-diarrhea medicine for dogs?

The best anti-diarrhea medicine for your dog depends on the underlying cause and their overall health. For mild cases, over-the-counter remedies like kaolin-pectin or bismuth subsalicylate can help relieve symptoms such as upset stomach, indigestion, or heartburn. 

If their diarrhea is caused by a bacterial infection, your vet may prescribe antibiotics that help your dog's immune system fight off the infection. In addition to antibiotics, probiotics are great additions to your dog’s daily routine, while dewormers are short-term solutions to prevent digestive issues as a result of parasitic worms. 

For a long-term solution, consider KOHA Bland Diet Dog Food, which offers gentle formulas to help support easy digestion. Each wet food recipe contains a single animal protein, white rice, and pumpkin to help maintain stool regularity. 

This limited-ingredient recipe not only supports healthy stools but also avoids junky fillers, which can cause upset stomach or digestive flare-ups.

Explore KOHA Bland Diet Dog Food Recipes

What should I do if my dog has diarrhea for three days but is acting normal?

If your dog has had diarrhea for three days but is still eating, drinking, and acting normally, it’s important to address their symptoms early. One way is to transition your dog to a bland diet to make sure they’re getting essential nutrients that are gentle on their stomach while maintaining proper hydration. 

Adding a dog-safe probiotic is another solution to address diarrhea symptoms and to provide balance for your dog's gut health. However, if diarrhea continues beyond three days or starts to worsen, it’s important to schedule a vet visit to rule out underlying issues like infections, parasites, or food intolerances.

Treat Your Dog’s Diarrhea with the Right Diet

While it might feel instinctive to turn to medicine to treat your dog's diarrhea, sometimes the best solution is simply adjusting the diet. The right bland diet speeds up your dog's GI recovery, providing easy-to-digest nutrients for healing and overall health.

If your dog is having a sudden bout of diarrhea, try KOHA’s Bland Diet products. 

If your dog is suffering from more chronic diarrhea that could be due to IBD or food allergies, try KOHA’s Novel Protein meals or Limited Ingredient dishes. 

Additionally, consider incorporating probiotics or fiber-rich foods, like pumpkin, to promote healthy gut flora and regulate bowel movements. And of course, always consult with your veterinarian to ensure you're providing the most appropriate diet for your dog's specific needs and condition. 

Armed with these treatment tricks and tips, we hope you and your furry friend embark on an adventure to restore their wagging tails and playful spirits.

Don't hesitate—switch to KOHA's minimal- and limited-ingredient dog foods now and witness your pet's thriving health firsthand!

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