Welcome back to the second part of the blog post, “Cane Corso Diarrhea: Why, How to Prevent and Remedies!” Today, we’ll discuss the seven ways to address diarrhea, a homemade probiotic you can make for your dog, and the three natural plant remedies to help resolve unwanted K9 diarrhea.
When the Inevitable Happens: 7 Remedies for Diarrhea
Despite our best efforts, diarrhea can still strike! Below are seven remedies to try. (Source: IHeartDogs.com).
1. Temporary Fasting
Withhold food for 12-24 hours to allow your dog’s digestive system to rest and heal. This includes all table scraps and treats!
2. Bland Diet
After the fasting period, introduce a light, bland diet of boiled white rice and unseasoned, skinless, boneless white chicken or turkey meat for 24-48 hours. This gentle diet can help firm up stools and soothe the digestive tract. A spoonful of 100% plain canned pumpkin puree (never pumpkin pie filling!) can help bulk up the dog’s stool. But keep in mind that less is better! (If your Cane Corso eats a grain-free diet, substitute rice with a mashed over-ripe banana or plain pumpkin.)
Quantity:
- Feed a few spoonfuls every 2-3 hours and gradually increase the amount over a 24-hour period.
- Next, feed a 75% bland and 25% regular diet for a few meals.
- Follow with a 50% bland / 50% regular mix; and
- Then 75% regular / 25% bland until he’s eating normally again.
3. Probiotics
Diarrhea clears away harmful gut bacteria but also destroys healthy bacteria in the gut. High-potency, multi-strain probiotics help restore your dog’s intestinal flora and improve digestion. Consult your vet for recommendations on canine-specific probiotics. (Plain, unsweetened yogurt or plain, low-sodium, low-fat cottage cheese are also good options IF your dog can tolerate milk/milk products.)
NOTE: Probiotics can help reduce gas and diarrhea, as well as when transitioning your dog to a new diet.
Cane Corso Barcelona: Homemade Probiotic for Cane Corsos
4. Prebiotics
In addition to probiotics, also give your Corso a prebiotic supplement. Why? Prebiotics are the food probiotics need to thrive and promote beneficial microorganisms in your dog’s gut.
5. Digestive Enzymes
Some Cane Corsos may have difficulty digesting specific proteins, fats, carbohydrates, or fiber. The following four digestive enzymes can help:
- Protease.
- Amylase
- Lipase.
- Cellulase.
6. Hydration
Ensure your dog stays hydrated, especially if they’ve lost fluids due to diarrhea. But monitor their intake (do not let them drink too much at once) to prevent exacerbating diarrhea or vomiting. In severe cases, your vet may recommend electrolyte solutions.
7. Veterinary Consultation
Seek veterinary attention immediately if:
- Diarrhea and vomiting persist beyond 48 hours.
- Diarrhea is accompanied by dehydration, fever, or blood in the stool.
Three natural plant remedies for K9 diarrhea:
~ Slippery elm coats and soothes the GI tract.
~ Chia seeds are packed with fiber and absorb excess water.
~ Plantains, a cousin of the banana, offer anti-microbial properties.
Video: Remedies/Supplements for Your Cane Corso’s Diarrhea
The Final Bark on a Stinky Issue!
While diarrhea isn’t the most glamorous topic, it is a common issue many Cane Corso and other K9 breed owners will face. Approaching it with knowledge and a sense of humor can make the experience less stressful for both you and your Corso friend!
Remember, accidents happen, but with proper care and preventive measures, you can minimize those messy moments! Also, keep a supply of over-the-counter dog diarrhea treatments on hand (chewable, paste or powder) for those moments every dog – and dog owner – will experience!
Next time, we return to our Puppy Series and explore another common mistake new puppy owners often make: grooming.
Cane Corso Breeding: For Us, It’s Personal!
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Watch our website for future litter announcements!
