It's one of those moments every dog parent dreads — you wake up to an accident on the floor, or your dog is making frantic trips outside. Dog diarrhea is one of the most common reasons pet owners call their vet, and while it's usually not serious, it can be uncomfortable for your dog and stressful for you.
Here's what you need to know about why dogs get diarrhea, when to worry, and how to help your pup feel better fast.
Common Causes of Diarrhea in Dogs
- Dietary indiscretion — eating something they shouldn't (garbage, table scraps, a new food introduced too quickly)
- Food sensitivity or intolerance — some dogs react to certain proteins, grains, or additives
- Stress or anxiety — changes in routine, travel, or new environments can trigger digestive upset
- Bacterial or viral infections — including parvovirus, salmonella, or campylobacter
- Parasites — giardia, roundworms, hookworms
- Medications — antibiotics and some other drugs can disrupt gut flora
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) — a chronic condition requiring veterinary management
When to Call the Vet
Most cases of mild diarrhea resolve within 24–48 hours. However, contact your veterinarian if your dog:
- Has diarrhea lasting more than 2–3 days
- Has blood in the stool (red or black/tarry)
- Is vomiting along with diarrhea
- Seems lethargic, weak, or in pain
- Is a puppy, senior dog, or has a pre-existing health condition
- Shows signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, skin that doesn't spring back when pinched)
How to Help a Dog with Diarrhea at Home
1. Withhold Food Briefly (But Not Water)
For adult dogs with mild diarrhea, a short fast of 12–24 hours can give the digestive system a chance to reset. Always keep fresh water available to prevent dehydration. Do not fast puppies or senior dogs without veterinary guidance.
2. Transition to a Bland Diet
After fasting, offer small amounts of a bland diet — plain boiled chicken and white rice is the classic go-to. Gradually reintroduce your dog's regular food over 3–5 days.
3. Use a Vet-Approved Digestive Support Supplement
For fast, targeted relief from occasional diarrhea, the Jeffers Diawin Tummy Relief Tablets are a veterinary-strength, FDA cleared option you can use at home. Each beef-flavored tablet contains 65 mg of bismuth subsalicylate — the same active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol — formulated specifically for dogs. Diawin helps firm stools, reduce intestinal irritation, and relieve nausea. Tablets can be given directly or mixed with a small amount of food. Dosage: 1 tablet per 30 lbs of body weight, 3–4 times daily as needed.
Note: Always consult your vet before giving any medication, especially if your dog has pre-existing conditions or is on other medications.
4. Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Diarrhea causes fluid loss quickly. Encourage your dog to drink water frequently. If your dog is reluctant to drink, try adding a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth to her water bowl.
5. Probiotics
Probiotic supplements can help restore healthy gut bacteria, especially after antibiotic use or a bout of diarrhea. Ask your vet for a dog-specific probiotic recommendation.
Preventing Future Digestive Upset
- Transition foods slowly — always mix new food with old food over 7–10 days
- Avoid table scraps — many human foods are hard for dogs to digest
- Keep trash secured — curious dogs will eat almost anything
- Manage stress — if your dog gets diarrhea during travel or changes in routine, talk to your vet about anxiety management
- Regular parasite prevention — keep up with deworming and fecal exams
Your Dog's Gut Health Matters
A healthy digestive system is the foundation of your dog's overall wellbeing. When occasional upset strikes, having a trusted, vet-approved solution on hand — like Jeffers Diawin Tummy Relief Tablets — means you can act quickly and confidently.
Explore our full range of dog health and wellness products to keep your pup feeling her best every day.
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