Let’s discover what a bland diet for dogs is and what are the recommended foods and recipes to help your pup’s upset stomach and support their recovery from illness or surgery.
If your dog has been feeling under the weather, whether due to an upset stomach, diarrhea, or after a procedure, a bland diet might be just what they need to get back on their feet.
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A bland diet for dogs is gentle on their digestive system for helping to settle their stomachs and ease discomfort. Let’s dive in!
Why a Bland Diet for Dogs?
You probably already know that bland diets are easy on dogs’ stomachs and intestines.
The digestive system may need a break from regular food after vomiting, diarrhea, or surgery.
By offering bland foods, you give your dog’s gut time to heal, while still ensuring they get the right nutrition. This kind of diet is often recommended by veterinarians when dogs are dealing with stomach issues or recovering from illnesses.
Bland Diet for Dogs Plan
When feeding your dog a bland diet the most essential thing to keep it simple and easy to digest.
Typically bland foods includes proteins and carbohydrates that are not too rich or fatty. Include these in your dog’s diet:
1. Lean Protein
So the thing is lean proteins are easy for dogs to digest without being hard on their stomach. A good lean protein choice for bland diet includes:
- Boiled Chicken (boneless): This is the most common protein recommended for a bland diet because its easy on the digestive system and low in fat. Be sure to remove all skin, bones, and seasoning before feeding.
- Boiled Ground Turkey (fat free): Like chicken ground turkey is another excellent which is easily digestible source of protein. It’s especially beneficial if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
2. Simple Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates help provide energy and bulk to stool which is important when your dog is dealing with digestive issues.
Good sources of simple carbohydrates for a bland diet include:
- Boiled White Rice: This is one of the most commonly recommended carbs for a bland diet. It’s easy to digest, low in fiber, and gentle on your dog’s stomach.
- Boiled Sweet Potatoes: While slightly more fibrous than white rice, sweet potatoes are still gentle on the digestive system and offer beneficial vitamins.
Other Simple Food Opions
You can also include a few other simple foods, such as:
- Plain Pumpkin: Pumpkin is a great natural remedy for both diarrhea and constipation, making it a great addition to a bland diet.
- Plain Mashed Potatoes: These are another easily digestible carb that can soothe your dog’s stomach.
What Not to Include in a Bland Diet for Dogs
Its important to avoid foods that may irritate their digestive system or cause more harm. Here’s what you should definitely avoid:
- Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, and other dairy products can be tough on dogs stomachs especially if they’re lactose intolerant.
- Fats and Oils: Fatty meats, greasy foods, and oils can worsen diarrhea and stomach upset.
- Spices and Seasonings: Avoid adding any spices, salt, or seasonings as these can irritate your dog’s digestive system or even be toxic in large amounts.
- Bones: Never give your dog cooked bones, as they can splinter and cause choking or internal injury.
How to Prepare a Bland Diet for Your Dog
Preparing a bland diet for your dog is simple and doesnt require any complicated recipes. Here’s a basic guideline to follow:
- Boil the Chicken: Cook boneless, skinless chicken breast in water. Do not add any seasoning or oil. Once it’s cooked, cut it into small, easily digestible pieces.
- Cook the Rice or Sweet Potatoes: If you’re using white rice, cook it in water until it’s soft. For sweet potatoes, peel them, boil them, and then mash them.
- Combine the Ingredients: Mix equal parts chicken and rice or sweet potatoes. If you’re using pumpkin, add a spoonful to the mix.
- Serve in Small Portions: Start by offering small portions to your dog to see how they tolerate the bland diet. Gradually increase the amount as their stomach improves.
How Long Should You Feed Your Dog a Bland Diet?
The thing is that a bland diet should be followed for about 3 to 5 days depending on your dog’s condition.
If your dog’s symptoms (like vomiting or diarrhea) don’t improve after a few days it’s important to consult your veterinarian.
It’s also important to gradually transition your dog back to their regular food once they’re feeling better
Conclusion
A bland diet is an excellent way to help your dog recover from stomach issues or gastrointestinal distress.
It’s simple to prepare, easy to digest, and can provide comfort to your pup during their recovery. However, always consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially if their symptoms persist.
With the right diet and care, your furry friend will be back to their happy, healthy self in no time.
