Diarrhea in dogs is a common problem that can be caused by many different factors. Whether it’s due to stress, eating something new or spicy, a dietary change, a more serious illness, or an infection. If your dog has diarrhea, you will notice that it’s having loose stools, frequent bowel movements, and/or straining to go. Diarrhea may be sudden in onset and short in duration. It can also last for weeks to months or occur off and on.
Diarrhea can be a major inconvenience for dogs; it can make the dog lose weight and appetite, and render the dog depressed and inactive. Several medications can be used to treat diarrhea in dogs; although diarrhea can appear as a symptom of several dog diseases such as coccidiosis, parvovirus, or even toxicity and side effects of some medicines.
Irrespective of the way diarrhea presents itself, there are certain anti-diarrhea drugs you can give your dog to immediately stop the symptoms of diarrhea before a comprehensive assessment and prescriptions are recommended by a veterinarian. These anti-diarrhea medicines for dogs are:
#1. Pepto Bismol For Dogs
If your dog is experiencing diarrhea, it’s important to speak with a veterinarian to determine the cause. However, Pepto Bismol can be used as an over-the-counter medication for diarrhea in dogs.
Although Pepto Bismol has been proven safe for all ages of dogs, since it contains bismuth subsalicylate and salicylic acid, some vets recommend not giving it to puppies under seven weeks old because their immune systems are too weak yet. If you do give your puppy Pepto Bismol when he’s less than seven weeks old, talk with a vet about whether or not it’s safe for him before doing so.
If you have any concerns about giving your dog Pepto Bismol due to liver disease (or any other reason), talk with your vet first.
#2. Kaopectate for Dogs
Kaopectate for dogs is a type of anti-diarrhea medicine available over the counter for pet owners. It’s safe for dogs in small quantities and comes in liquid form. Kaopectate for dogs contains kaolin, which is an absorbent mineral that can help reduce water loss from your dog’s body by drawing fluids back into his system. This helps relieve symptoms of diarrhea since your dog won’t be losing so much fluid through vomiting or loose stools.
Kaopectate for dogs comes in several different forms: liquid, gel cap, and chewable tablet form. You can get it without a prescription at most drug stores or online retailers like Amazon or PetSmart (although you may have to order directly from the manufacturer).
#3. Imodium for Dogs
Imodium for Dogs is an over-the-counter medication for dogs that can be used to treat mild to moderate cases of diarrhea. It does this by slowing down the movement of material through the intestines and reducing water loss from feces. Imodium for dogs is available in a liquid form or as a tablet, but it’s important to note that no chewable versions are available.
Imodium for Dogs may be used safely on dogs of all ages, including puppies who are still nursing. However, it is not recommended if your dog has certain health conditions such as kidney failure or heart problems because it contains dl-lactose (milk sugar). If you have any doubts about whether Imodium would be beneficial for your pooch, speak with your veterinarian first.
#4. Metronidazole for dogs
Metronidazole is a medication that treats anaerobic infections, which are caused by bacteria. It’s most commonly used to treat bacterial infections in people and dogs.
Metronidazole is typically given as a pill or liquid, but can also be given intravenously (IV). The dosages will vary depending on your dog’s age and weight.
#5. FortiFlora Canine Probiotic Supplement
FortiFlora Canine Probiotic Supplement is a great option for dogs suffering from diarrhea, or who are just looking to improve overall digestive health. The active ingredient of this supplement is Enterococcus faecium; it also contains fermented yeast and a variety of live strains of beneficial bacteria that can help restore your dog’s natural balance in the gut.
Other common types of probiotics include Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium lactis, or Saccharomyces boulardii. These types of bacteria are used to restore good bacterial balance in the body after antibiotics have been used for an illness or infection.
Some of the other benefits that you may see from using FortiFlora Canine Probiotic Supplement include:
- Improved digestion and nutrient absorption
- Reduced bloating after eating food
- Decreased gas production related to eating foods with high fiber content
These dog anti-diarrhea medicines are available in veterinarian stores or online pet stores like Amazon and PetSmart. Ensure you follow the dosage prescription of any of these medicines before administration.
How Long To Use Anti-Diarrhea Medicine For Dogs
How long you should use the medicine depends on the cause of the diarrhea. If it’s caused by a bacterial infection, your dog should continue using the medicine for at least one week after symptoms have resolved. If it’s caused by a viral infection and you see no improvement within two weeks or if they aren’t eating or drinking normally, consult with your veterinarian before stopping treatment.
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Finally, you MUST take your dog to the veterinarian to assess the diarrhea for further treatment. The listed anti-diarrhea medicines may not completely treat the primary cause of the diarrhea. It is possible the diarhea is just a symptom of other dog infections. Do not relax on these anti-diarrhea medicines, let the veterinarian assess your dogs and give a prescription.