is porridge good for dogs with diarrhea and vomiting

13 Foods that can help if your dog has diarrhea or vomiting

If you own a dog and have not been woken up at 2 am by the rhythmic retching that is only preceded by you having to clean up vomit or diarrhea, dont worry you will.

Upset stomach, nausea, and the consequences of both are some of the not-so-great joys of dog ownership.

Aside from food, there are also some over-the-counter medications that you can give your dog with your vets permission. Read about them here.

What to do when your dog has an upset stomach

As a veterinarian, one of the first things I would tell any pet owner is to fast your dog for at least 24 hours to give his or her stomach a much-needed rest.

After this period of time start with foods that are gentle for example chicken stock. Any type of bland diet (rice and boiled chicken breast) is usually my go-to introductory food.

Once your dog is out of the woods and over the initial bout of nausea they are probably ready to begin eating solid foods and these are some that may prove to be beneficial when added to his or her regular diet.

For more on what to do when your dog has an upset stomach read here.

One of the first things you should know is that a dog with diarrhea could have an issue as simple as eating something out of the garbage that didnt agree with them or an issue as severe as pancreatitis.

If you want to learn about other common causes of diarrhea in dogs read this article.

This is why it is always recommended that you check with your veterinarian, especially with prolonged cases of diarrhea.

13 FOODS THAT HELP WITH UPSET STOMACH

The goal in feeding a dog with diarrhea is to ensure that they are receiving something nutritious that will help reinstate any lost electrolytes and minerals that were flushed away with diarrhea while not giving them anything too heavy or flavored (think bland like white rice).

One of the best things you can give them is bone broth and something like plain Pedialyte or This diarrhea-relief dog food topper. Boiled white rice is also a great way to get something fairly bland on their stomachs after a bout with diarrhea.

If youre looking for a great recipe for bone broth click here for the recipe.

The list below is great to help with firming up bowels after you have cleared with your veterinarian that there is nothing serious causing your pups diarrhea.

13. Psyllium

Psyllium is also known as Metamucil and although it is marketed as a bulk-forming fiber laxative it can also help with diarrhea.

It works by absorbing liquid and swelling in the intestines to create bulkier stool which is easily passed.

The fiber in Metamucil helps with diarrhea, by firming up the stool. For some, it has worked wonders in their dog with IBD by keeping their bowel movements regular and it has also been known to help with recurring anal gland problems.

The increased bulk stool puts more pressure on the glands to express themselves.

It works much in the same way that pumpkin does and while it may not be your go-to choice if it is all that you have ask your vet for advice on use and a dose for your pup.

12. Ginger

Theres a reason that you were told to drink ginger ale if you werent feeling your best, it is because ginger is known to soothe upset stomachs.

Ginger is a tropical perennial herb and not actually a food but it has been used for years in pets in the treatment of vomiting and cardiovascular disorders.

Unfortunately, one of the chief adverse effects of ginger is mild gastrointestinal irritation if given too much.

Although, this is more so seen in cats if ginger is something you want to incorporate regularly into your dogs diet make sure to do so in moderation.

In traditional herbal medicine, ginger is rarely used alone and always mixed with other herbs or ingredients.

Grating fresh ginger and giving it to your dog in their regular food works well for most pet owners.

11. Bananas

Bananas have been used as a dietary addition for dogs that have upset stomachs, as they have been known to soothe dogs stomachs and slow or stop bouts of diarrhea.

This is mainly due to the high fiber content. As we all know bananas are packed with nutrients, including potassium and vitamin C, and have been shown to boost your dogs immune system, inhibit the growth of bacteria, and provide essential electrolytes that help prevent dehydration.

Overfeeding can lead to constipation, therefore do not give too much too often, and speak with your veterinarian prior to feeding.

You can slice them up and offer the pieces to your pup. They are pretty bland so you may have to freeze them to alter the texture if your dog shows little interest in taking pieces.

10. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds have been touted for helping dogs with diarrhea since they are great at absorbing excess water, which is said to firm up your dogs stool and reduce intestinal inflammation.

They are also a great source of fiber.

Always make sure to soak your chia seed prior to feeding as there are some dangers that can come along with feeding chia seeds if you arent careful. You can read about feeding your dog chia seeds here. Always, check with your vet before giving your dog chia seeds to determine a proper dose.

9. Boiled Rice

White rice is as bland as it gets, and as I said before it is my go-to for my dogs when they have a bout of diarrhea.

It is also a great source of soluble fiber and absorbs water as it passes through the GI tract to help harden the stool.

You can make the rice as you regularly do, or create a softer porridge for dogs that are having a more difficult time eating.

8. Boiled Boneless, skinless, chicken breast

Boiled chicken is a great option to feed as an initial introduction back to regular food. You can mix it with boiled white rice as I do or feed it alone if it is all you have. Chicken is extremely bland and a great source of protein.

Make sure to chop the chicken into small pieces or shred it and never add anything to it like salt.

7. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a great option for soothing an upset stomach and provides fiber along with vitamins and minerals in the process.

That is if you can get your dog to eat oatmeal as some dogs eat oatmeal but many refuse especially if its plain.

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Make sure to feed oatmeal sparingly as your dog can get too much fiber and too much of a good thing is ultimately a bad thing!

This can lead to further stomach upset and possibly vomiting and diarrhea.

When preparing oatmeal, always cook your oatmeal and serve it at room temperature. Uncooked will be harder for your dog to digest whereas cooked oatmeal is much easier on your dogs tummy.

Avoid oatmeals that have sugars, artificial sweeteners, or flavors already added in and just make it plain for your pup. Also, steer clear of instant oatmeal packages as they are highly processed. Never use milk when making the oatmeal and always opt for water.

6. Pumpkin

A small amount of fresh pumpkin puree has been shown to work wonders on dogs with diarrhea due to its low-calorie, high-fiber content. In addition, pumpkin is loaded with antioxidants so it is a good fruit for dogs!

Make sure you arent using the canned pumpkin meant for pie filling, optimally you should use fresh pureed or canned pumpkin that is free of artificial additives.

5. Boiled Ground Beef

As with chicken, this is another option for dogs with upset stomachs. You will want to boil the ground beef to get rid of any fat and feed it with nothing added.

Ground beef is bland and gentle enough for your pets stomach that it shouldnt cause further upset with regular feeding.

Make sure that the meat you choose is low-fat and preferably antibiotic and steroid-free.

4. Sweet Potato

Like pumpkin, sweet potatoes are great for digestive health because of their high dietary fiber content.

In addition, they are also low in fat and contain vitamin B6, antioxidant beta-carotene, vitamin C, and manganese.

You can make them steamed, boiled, or baked just make sure you dont give them raw.

Raw sweet potatoes are extremely difficult for your pup to chew and digest, and this can cause more issues down the line. In addition, make sure to take the skin off to make it easier to digest as well.

Overfeeding sweet potatoes can have negative effects so make sure to start slow by giving small amounts, as a sudden increase in fiber could cause further gastrointestinal upset.

You dont want to feed too much, as they are high in sugar and carbohydrates which can lead to weight gain over time.

3. Baby Food

Baby food is very easily digested by dogs and is a great way to encourage appetite when all else has failed. Dont just grab a bottle of baby food off the shelf, make sure to read the ingredients as some may be harmful to dogs like garlic or onion powder.

You can also opt to make your own pureed baby food and give it to your pup.

2. Bone Broth

Bone broth is a very mild, liquid meal that will be quite gentle on your pups stomach. It is a great choice as an intermediate between fasting and the introduction of a bland diet after a bout of stomach upset. Bone broth is filled with minerals and nutrients making it extremely beneficial for pups that may have lost a lot of nutrients due to vomiting or diarrhea.

While it can be difficult to find completely plain broth they are out there. In fact, there are some made specifically for dogs.

If you are not using store-bought bone broth, you will want to make it ahead of time and freeze it as it takes at least 24 hours to cook. You can always freeze the broth and have it on hand for when you need it.

1. Yogurt or Probiotics

Probiotics and yogurt are especially good to add to your pups diet if they had to take antibiotics during the course of their illness.

They are great at restoring good bacteria in your dogs microbiome.

When giving yogurt make sure to use plain, low-fat with live cultures and opt for a probiotic specifically made for dogs.

If you have canine probiotics on hand, then opt for those. Read our article here on four all-natural probiotics that we love.

Rules of thumb when introducing new foods into your dogs diet:

• Remember, every dog is different and will react differently, so keep a close eye on your pup
• Introduce new foods slowly and in small portions to help prevent further stomach upset
• Always ask your vet about foods, herbs, or vitamins prior to feeding them to your dog
• Make sure your dog is not allergic to the ingredients
• If you dont notice an improvement within 24 hours, it may be time to take a trip to the vet

Have a cat and want to learn about feeding them a bland diet for an upset stomach? Read here.

4 ALL NATURAL PROBIOTICS WE LOVE

SEVEN QUESTIONS YOUR VET WILL ASK IF YOUR DOG HAS DIARRHEA

Can Dogs Eat Porridge? Tips for a Healthy Breakfast for Your Pup

Who does not like to have a healthy breakfast? With an abundance of nutritional value. Porridge is a light and healthy dish and is a popular breakfast choice. But the question is whether dogs can eat porridge as well.

Dogs can have porridge in moderation, and its safe for them and offers several health benefits to your dog! Such as, porridge is good for digestion and a healthy coat.

Now we know that dogs can have porridge. However, you should not just start randomly offering spoonfuls of porridge to your dogs bowl immediately. Even though porridge provides certain health benefits to dogs, you must follow some best practices before feeding your dog porridge.

Benefits of Porridge for Dogs: Best Practices

Porridge is a healthy dish made with cereal grains boiled in water. When cooked properly, it can provide your dog with essential carbohydrates and proteins, helping to keep them healthy. Additionally, porridge can help your dog stay hydrated.

Avoiding sugar is essential to make the most nutritious porridge for your dog. Adding sugar can be harmful to their health. However, you can add healthy treats like pumpkin puree, sunflower seeds, and peanut butter. Its crucial to control the portions of these treats and not replace your dogs regular daily food with them.

Organic Plain Porridge

A must-follow rule when buying porridge for a dog is to check the back of the packet. Check for unwanted ingredients, such as added sugar, dried fruit, or sweetener, as these ingredients are unhealthy for dogs. Organic plain porridge would be the best option for your dog.

Depending on what else you have given your dog on the same day, you shouldnt double up on treats; only offer porridge with the safe add list of ingredients to a dog without any extras on the same day.

Not a Substitute for a Balanced Diet

While it may have some health benefits for your dog, it is important to note that this food does not provide all the essential elements needed for a balanced diet. It should only be given as a treat, not a meal replacement.

If you are making homemade food for your dog, it is important to seek guidance from a veterinarian to ensure that your dog gets all the necessary nutrients in their diet.

Importance of Portion Control for Dogs

It is important to practice portion control when feeding your dog porridge. Instead of giving it to them as a main meal, treat it as an occasional special treat. Offering porridge in moderation helps ensure that your dogs essential tummy space is used for its balanced daily food.

Amount of Porridge

Porridge Best Practices Recap Guidelines

• Use water instead of milk to cook your dogs porridge for best results.
• Avoid adding sugar to a dogs porridge.
• Opt for organic plain porridge as it is the healthiest option.
• Remember to serve porridge in moderation.
• Avoid your dog indulging in too many treats in a single day.

Safe Ingredients to Add to Porridge for Dogs: Best Practices

When adding any of the safe ingredients listed below to porridge, remember only to choose one. It is important not to add all of them together. Giving dogs a moderate amount of porridge and only a tiny quantity of the ingredients listed below is also essential.

Peanut Butter

Although you should not give your dog sugar or maple syrup, you can include peanut butter in their porridge. However, ensuring that your peanut butter is all-natural and contains no added sugar or flavour is essential.

Amount:half a teaspoon size

Fruit

You can cut some dog-friendly fruits into small pieces and add them to the porridge. You can consider some fruits: strawberries, bananas, pineapple, blueberries, blackberries or apples.

Amount:a few small 1cm by 1cm pieces of fruit

Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree is a great way to boost the fibre content in your dogs porridge, but remember to add only a tiny amount.

Amount:teaspoon size

Cinnamon

As you may already know, cinnamon is a natural ingredient that can help reduce inflammation. Adding cinnamon to your porridge is a simple way to enjoy its benefits. Not only does it add delicious flavour, but it also does so without adding any extra calories.

Amount:a few sprinkles, fingertip size

Plain yoghurt

Plain natural yoghurt is yet another safe ingredient to add to porridge. Yoghurt brings a nice boost of vitamins and calcium to your dog. However, it must be plain, and you should not add flavoured yoghurt, as this type has a high sugar content.

Amount:teaspoon size

Sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds are loaded with several antioxidants and are safe for your dog to consume. They must be unsalted sunflower seeds, and the outer layer must be removed and added to the porridge in a minimal amount.

Amount: ten seeds. Crushed up is better and easier to digest

The Nutritional Advantages of Including Porridge in Your Dogs Diet

Porridge is a tasty dish that can offer several essential nutrients to your dogs diet. Lets explore them!

Promotes Skin Health

Porridge is rich in vitamin B and linoleic acid. Vitamin B helps to maintain the skin health of your dog. It may also support healthy skin cell production. Linoleic acid, on the other hand, helps to keep the skin barrier. Along with that, it reduces inflammation and promotes faster wound healing.

Supports Digestion

Porridge is high in fibre. It is known that fibre offers several health benefits to the digestive system. As the undigested fibre moves through your body, it adds bulk to form stool and helps to maintain regular bowel movements. Porridge in the recommended amount can also improve the condition of dogs suffering from constipation.

Lowers Cholesterol Level

Some dogs suffer from high cholesterol levels due to genetic predisposition or metabolic issues. Porridge is a good resource for Beta-glucan. Beta-glucan is a type of fibre linked with better heart health. Regular intake of porridge can help to control the cholesterol level among dogs.

Safety Considerations When Feeding Porridge to Dogs

There are a few safety considerations to consider when feeding dogs porridge. It is vital to thoroughly understand these aspects before incorporating this dish into your dogs diet.

While porridge can offer some health benefits to dogs, moderation is key. Feeding your dog excessive porridge can lead to weight gain, digestive issues, and an unbalanced diet. The recommended portion sizes mentioned in the article can be a guideline to ensure portion control for your dogs well-being.

Although porridge is safe for dogs, certain ingredients should be avoided or used sparingly. Checking the label and avoiding porridge with added sugars, dried fruit, or sweeteners is crucial. These ingredients can harm dogs and lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health problems. Choose organic plain porridge as the healthiest option for your furry friend.

Porridge should only be seen as a treat or supplement to your dogs regular diet, not a meal replacement. A balanced dog diet comprises various nutrients and specific requirements that porridge alone may not fulfil. If you are considering homemade food for your dog, seeking guidance from a veterinarian is highly recommended to ensure all essential nutrients are accounted for.

Monitoring your dog for any adverse reactions or allergies linked to certain porridge ingredients is crucial. Different dogs may have different sensitivities, so it is essential to introduce new ingredients gradually and watch for any signs of discomfort, such as vomiting, diarrhoea, or skin irritations.

Although porridge can be a healthy addition to your dogs diet, providing necessary nutrients and supporting digestion and skin health, it is essential to consider these safety precautions. By following these guidelines and consulting with a veterinarian, you can ensure the health and well-being of your furry companion.

Carbohydrates Food List

Dogs can eat other types of carbohydrates. Here is a table to help you choose the best food for your dog. Click on each food to learn more about how to feed them to your dog safely.

A dog can enjoy porridge with milk if it isnt lactose intolerant. However, using water instead of milk would be the healthier option.

Puppies aged eight weeks can enjoy porridge with a bit of milk. However, be aware that some puppies can be lactose intolerant. In this case, making porridge with water would be the better option.

Puppies aged eight weeks onwards can enjoy some porridge. However, making porridge with water would be the best option and only offering a tiny amount.

Golden syrup is full of sugar, so in this case, its best not to add golden syrup to your dogs porridge. Too much sugar can cause obesity, teeth issues and diabetes.

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