Diarrhea in dogs is most commonly caused by eating foods other than their normal dog food. In some cases, it may be mild and can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications. Severe cases require treatment by your veterinarian.
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Medicines
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According to The Dog Health Guide, you can give your dog Kaopectate, Imodium or Pepto Bismol. Be sure to follow dosage information carefully.
Home Care
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Treating your dog for diarrhea with over-the-counter medications is fine for a few days. However, if it is not responding to the medication it may need different medication from your veterinarian.
Dehydration
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Dogs can become dehydrated very quickly with diarrhea and it can lead to a life-threatening situation. Be certain that your dog has clean, fresh water available while you are treating it for diarrhea.
Food
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While you are treating your dog with an over-the-counter medicine, offer it a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice or potato. If it is vomiting along with the diarrhea, allow its stomach to rest for 24 hours, offering only water and the medication during that period.
Precaution
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The Dog Health Guide advises that you check with your veterinarian prior to giving your dog an over-the-counter medication.
Warning
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Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog is having a bowel movement every one or two hours, the stool contains worms or blood, if it is lethargic or seems sick, or has vomited two or more times in one day.
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