Diarrhea Medication for Dogs

Metronidazole (brand name Flagyl) is a popular medication for dogs with diarrhea because it can help treat several GI issues, ranging from diarrhea to inflammatory bowel disease and infections that cause GI symptoms. Metronidazole is a prescription antibiotic that treats infections and is commonly used as an off-label medication for dogs to treat infections that cause diarrhea. 

There are several alternatives to metronidazole, but how your dog is treated will depend on their diagnosis. For example, diphenoxylate is another common diarrhea medication for dogs that treats sudden-onset diarrhea and can be used in long-term treatment for dogs with irritable bowel. In addition, DiaGel is another anti-diarrhea medication for dogs that experience diarrhea due to bacterial infections or stress and can help prevent diarrhea as a side effect of medication. 

In addition, vets may choose to let mild diarrhea subside on its own, while others may recommend natural remedies like canned pumpkin to give your dog an additional boost of fiber to bulk up their stool or probiotics to support gut health and prevent diarrhea. 

Of course, you should never treat your pet’s diarrhea at home without consulting with your vet, especially if you’re unsure of the cause of their diarrhea. Because there are many possible causes, ranging from parasites to infection and even introducing a new food into your dog’s diet, it’s always best to have them diagnosed by a vet to rule out any serious illnesses or treat them. 

As a pet parent, you’ve likely noticed that your dog doesn’t always have the healthiest stools. Of course, most cases of mild diarrhea subside on their own after a day or two, especially if they’re caused by dietary indiscretion. 

Diet and nutrition play a crucial role in your dog’s gut health, so if they’re experiencing diarrhea, it may be due to a new food or an intolerance. However, there are several causes of diarrhea in dogs, which makes it crucial for you to have them diagnosed by a vet if their diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours. Common causes of diarrhea in dogs include the following: 

• Dietary indiscretion
• Changes in diet
• Food intolerance
• Allergies
• Parasites
• Toxins
• Viral and bacterial infections
• Serious underlying illnesses like kidney and liver disease
• Stress and anxiety
• Antibiotics

Acute diarrhea from dietary indiscretion or stress should resolve within a day or two. However, if your dog experiences diarrhea for more than 24 hours, it is considered an emergency, and they should be taken to the nearest emergency vet clinic as soon as possible. In addition, if your dog becomes lethargic or dehydrated, you should schedule a visit with your vet as quickly as possible to identify the cause to effectively treat canine diarrhea. 

Pepto-Bismol is considered safe for dogs, but it’s not the proper treatment for all dogs with diarrhea. In addition, you should never give your dog any human medication without first consulting your vet, especially because they’ll require a different dose than you would. 

Talk to a Dutch vet if you’re worried about your dog’s diarrhea. We can help you determine the underlying cause and give your dog the right treatment to prevent it in the future.