The main causes of diarrhea in a puppy are viruses and parasites. Sudden diarrhea that does not last long may be the result of a change in diet or eating something out of the ordinary. Ongoing diarrhea will result in dehydration quickly and needs to be treated diligently. Dehydration not only weakens a puppy and the immune system, it can also lead to death very quickly. Mild cases of diarrhea are easily treated at home but if the diarrhea is severe, the puppy will need to be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Things You'll Need
- Oral electrolyte solution
- Dropper
- Rice
- Chicken
- Oatmeal
Instructions
Remove the normal food that the puppy is eating. Dog food is high in fat and it will irritate his sensitive stomach.
Feed the puppy small amounts of rice or oatmeal. Add in small bits of boiled chicken. Give the puppy half of the amount that you would normally feed. Do not overfeed even if the puppy is still hungry.
Liquid intake is essential to avoid dehydration. Keep clean fresh water available at all times. If the puppy is not drinking on his own at least every few hours, force-feed an oral electrolyte solution by using a dropper to slowly push it into his mouth.
Monitor the puppy very closely. If he begins to be very lethargic, is vomiting or has bloody stools then he needs to be seen by a veterinarian right away.