Being a pet parent means being prepared for the unexpected. Sometimes issues come up at the most inconvenient times.
While reaching out to your veterinarian for advice or an appointment is always recommended, there are some nonprescription therapies and home remedies for dogs that are usually safe to try at home before you call or while you wait for an appointment.
8 Conditions That May Benefit From Home Remedies for Dogs
1. Mild Diarrhea/Mucus in Stool
When my dogs experience mild diarrhea, I first check if they are still eating and acting normally. If they seem fine otherwise, I give their intestines a chance to rest and heal by switching to a bland diet or an easily digestible diet. My go-to meal is boiled chicken, turkey, or beef mixed with rice in a 2:1 ratio—two parts rice and one part chicken. I never use meat fat, as it can trigger pancreatitis, especially in adult dogs and growing puppies. This gentle diet soothes inflammation and supports the digestive system, allowing the stool to firm up naturally over a few days.
Alongside this diet, I sometimes add probiotics or a fiber supplement such as Propectalin or a spoonful of canned pumpkin puree to increase bulk in the stool. These help balance gut bacteria and aid recovery. If the diarrhea doesn’t improve or worsens—with signs like blood in stool, decreased appetite, or vomiting—it’s time to call the vet or a veterinarian to rule out a serious cause and possibly start a prescription diet. From personal experience, acting early and adjusting meals gently makes a huge difference in keeping your dog’s tummy healthy and preventing further digestive troubles.
2. Hot Spots
When dealing with hot spots, I’ve learned that quick treatment makes all the difference in easing inflammation and discomfort on a dog’s skin. These lesions often appear suddenly, especially in breeds with thick coats like Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds, and constant licking or scratching only worsens them. As a pet parent, I gently trim the fur using electric clippers (never scissors) to allow better air exposure and use a medicated wipe or mousse to reduce bacteria and yeast. For more severe cases, the vet might suggest oral antibiotics or anti-inflammatories to help the area heal. Using recovery cones also prevents further irritation, and avoiding a bandage helps the healing process by reducing trapped moisture that can cause infection or complications. Managing pain carefully and keeping the skin clean ensures your dog feels relief faster and recovers more comfortably.
3. Itchy, Irritated, Dry Skin
When dogs suffer from dry skin or itchy skin, I’ve found that using gentle over-the-counter shampoos makes a big difference. I usually look for oatmeal-based and fragrance-free products since they give the best results without irritating the skin further. For more severe irritation, my vet once recommended an antiseptic shampoo or mousse containing an ingredient like chlorhexidine, which helped soothe and clean the skin effectively. These mild, soothing washes can comfort your pet while keeping their coat soft and healthy, especially when used consistently under proper care.
4. Allergies
Many dogs are prone to allergies, and I’ve often seen symptoms like sneezing, eye discharge, and constant itching appear without warning. My vet once explained that safe antihistamines such as diphenhydramine or Cetirizine can help, but only when used in proper dosages and dosing approved by a veterinarian, since pets and people require different products. If you notice yellow discharge or green discharge from the eyes or nose, or if your dog’s appetite, demeanor, or squinting changes, it’s time to schedule an appointment for further care. Never use decongestants, as they can be harmful. Knowing when to seek help keeps your pet comfortable and ensures any allergy-related issues are handled safely.
5. Licking Paws
Many dogs show licking paws as a normal behavior, but when it becomes excessive licking, it may signal irritation, allergies, or even contact-related irritants. I’ve seen cases where constant licking led to fur-color change and made the skin sore. Simple care steps, like gentle Epsom salt soaks, can help cleanse the feet from environmental allergens or contaminants and promote the healing process. Using medicated wipes also keeps the paws clean and soothes the area, helping to relieve itching and inflammation. If the dog keeps licking, using a recovery cone can prevent further damage while the area heals naturally. Regular care like this not only comforts the dog but also reduces the risk of secondary infections.
6. Ear Debris
When I notice waxy debris in a dog’s ear, it often comes with severe itching and frequent head shaking, which can make the ear canal sore and irritated. Gentle ear cleaning using safe ear wash or ear wipes can relieve these symptoms and help keep the ears clean. It’s important to avoid household items like vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol, as they may cause inflammation or internal ear damage. Instead, I recommend appropriate products designed for dogs — after applying the cleaner, gently massage the base of the ear, let your dog shake out the excess cleaner, and wipe the area with a soft cotton ball or your finger. Never use cotton swabs, as they can harm the canal. If the product doesn’t seem to help or the irritation worsens, scheduling an appointment with a vet for proper diagnosis is the safest choice, as regular cleaning supports both ear health and comfort.
7. Fleas
When a puppy starts scratching nonstop, it’s often a sign of adult fleas, which can worsen their discomfort and even lead to digestive stress like diarrhea. I’ve found that using safe and effective flea-control products makes a big difference. For mild cases, at-home flea treatment options such as gentle Dawn dish soap baths can help kill fleas on contact, though they don’t fully eliminate the problem. For lasting results, it’s better to ask a veterinarian about approved products and the best medication suited for puppies, since not all medication is puppy-safe. Choosing a plan tailored to your dog’s needs ensures the infestation is handled quickly and safely without upsetting their sensitive system.
8. Gas/Flatulence
Some dogs often become gassy because of absorption issues or intestinal upset, which may cause uncomfortable gas buildup. This is especially true for brachycephalic or short-nosed breeds that swallow air due to their respiratory tract shape. Changes in lifestyle or diet can help—feeding small meals more often, using a slow-feeding bowl, and offering low-residue, high-quality diet or easily digestible diets can reduce flatulence and dietary flatulence. Dogs that gobble food quickly benefit from calmer feeding habits, while probiotic supplements can support digestive health. If the issue continues, a veterinarian should assess whether the cause is more serious.
13 Dog Health Issues That You Should Never Try Home Remedies For
While it may be tempting to use home remedies when your dog seems unwell, certain issues require a veterinarian’s supervision to manage safely. Trying to treat serious conditions at home can delay proper care and make treatment more difficult later. From digestive troubles to skin infections, professional evaluation ensures your pet receives the right diagnosis and medical attention instead of relying on unverified online solutions.
1. Bad Breath
Good oral hygiene is vital for every dog, as neglecting it can lead to bad breath and serious dental issues. Only a vet can perform an anesthetic dental procedure to properly diagnose and treat periodontal disease, which often hides below the gumline. Regular brushing and professional checkups help prevent buildup and keep your dog’s mouth clean and healthy.
2. Black or Bloody Stool
Finding bright-red blood in your dog’s stool can be alarming, as it often signals inflammation in the digestive tract. A vet should examine your dog promptly and may recommend blood testing to rule out a clotting issue or gastroenteritis. In severe cases, hospitalization may be needed to stabilize your pet and start proper treatment.
3. Bleeding Anus
If you notice blood around your dog’s rectal area, it’s important to see a vet right away. One common cause is an anal gland infection, which usually needs antibiotic therapy to clear up. In some cases, a surgical issue like a mass or trauma may be responsible, and your veterinarian can determine the best course of treatment.
4. Bloated Stomach
A bloated stomach in dogs can quickly become dangerous if it turns into GDV, a life-threatening emergency where the stomach twists. A vet can take X-rays to check the severity of the bloat and decide whether medical intervention or surgical intervention is needed to save your dog’s life.
5. Blood in Urine/Bladder Infection
Not all infections are the reason for blood in a dog’s urine, which is why a vet often performs a urinalysis to decide if antibiotics are necessary. In some cases, X-rays may be used to detect bladder stones, as they can show similar clinical signs to infections and require different treatment.
6. Coughing/Wheezing
A cough that persists for more than a week or results in a dog not sleeping or eating well requires X-rays to help determine the cause. The treatments for pneumonia and heart failure are very different, yet the coughs typical in each condition can sound very similar.
7. Dermatitis/Mange/Ringworm
Dermatitis, an inflammatory condition, can cause more discomfort than just dry skin, and a vet should evaluate dogs to check for a bacterial infection or yeast infection that needs proper testing to treat effectively. Sometimes, mites or mange may be the cause, requiring topical therapies or oral therapies for recovery. Ringworm can look similar but needs a separate test, as ringworm treatment for dogs is very different from how it’s managed in humans.
8. Ear Mites
When dealing with canine acute diarrhea, I’ve often noticed that skin troubles like dermatitis, mange, and ringworm can appear at the same time, making dogs even more uncomfortable. In my experience, these conditions often start with mites or ear mites, which cause intense itching and irritation. Instead of relying only on harsh chemicals, I’ve found that gentle alternatives—like herbal rinses and topical flea therapies with natural ingredients—can help soothe the skin. Sometimes, what looks like mange can turn into yeast or bacterial otitis in the ear canals, leading to a painful ear infection. When this happens, it’s important to see a vet who can decide if mild antibiotics are needed. I once treated my own dog this way—starting with natural oils for the irritation and using medicine only when symptoms worsened—and it worked well to calm his skin without upsetting his stomach.
9. Eye Discharge, Red Eye, Pink Eye, or Cloudy Eye
When I first noticed eye discharge in my dog, I assumed it was just dust, but a vet later explained it could be linked to allergies, an ulcer, or even glaucoma. These issues often appear with eye inflammation or uveitis, both of which can make dogs squint or rub their eyes constantly. In some cases, hidden diseases can affect their vision if not caught early. I learned that the best way to care for such eye troubles is to diagnose the cause quickly and treat it with gentle cleaning, medication, or soothing drops prescribed by a professional. Ever since, I’ve made a habit of checking my dog’s eyes daily, because catching the signs early can make all the difference.
10. Hair Loss
When my dog began showing hair loss and constant itching, I initially blamed seasonal shedding, but a vet later found deeper health issues. Conditions like hypothyroidism, which affects the thyroid, or Cushing’s disease, linked to the adrenal glands, can cause both itchy and non-itchy bald spots. Dogs that are spayed or neutered can sometimes experience hormonal changes too, making these symptoms more noticeable. It’s important to have your pet evaluated by a professional to identify the exact cause and get the right medical treatment. I’ve learned that once the hormones are balanced, the coat usually grows back, and the dog feels much healthier overall.
11. Not Eating, Vomiting, or Upset Stomach
When a dog has an upset stomach, it’s often linked to a diet change or eating something unusual, but it can also lead to vomiting, not eating, or even dehydration if ignored. While mild cases usually pass, persistent symptoms can point to a more serious issue like an intestinal blockage or another hidden condition. In such cases, your vet may recommend bloodwork or X-rays to identify the cause and guide proper treatment, ensuring your dog recovers safely and quickly.
12. Pain
For dogs showing signs of limping or arthritis pain, I’ve often seen over-the-counter joint supplements like glucosamine make a real difference. These products support joint health by reducing pain and improving mobility without needing surgery or heavy medications. Some vets even recommend them as part of an anti-inflammatory treatment for chronic conditions, helping delay more aggressive interventions. Always talk to your veterinarian before starting any supplement to ensure it’s safe and effective for your dog’s specific needs.
13. Worms
Sometimes diarrhea in dogs can be caused by a hidden parasite, which is why I always ask my vet to run a fecal sample or stool analysis before starting any therapy. In many cases, over-the-counter dewormers can help eliminate and kill the worms at the right stage, but it’s important to follow the appropriate schedule your veterinarian recommends. I once had a dog whose vomiting, changes in behavior, and loss of appetite improved only after this treatment, followed by a quick checkup to ensure full resolution. If your dog shows urgent symptoms, don’t delay a visit to the vet for proper care and monitoring of stool health.
What is the best natural remedy for dog diarrhea?
When my dogs have mild diarrhea, I’ve often treated them at home using a bland diet that’s gentle on the GI tract. Simple meals like boiled chicken, low-fat hamburger, white rice, or even cooked pasta are easy to digest and give their stomachs a much-needed break. I’ve also found this approach works well for cats, as it soothes irritation and helps the digestive system settle naturally without harsh medication.
How to treat acute diarrhea in dogs?
When a dog has acute diarrhea, I usually start with supportive care to help stabilize them and ease discomfort. This often includes nutritional intervention, such as feeding bland, easy-to-digest meals, and ensuring proper hydration through fluid therapy. In some cases, anthelmintics are used to remove intestinal parasites, while an antibiotic like metronidazole is sometimes prescribed, especially in North America, to control bacterial imbalance. However, combining these treatments under a vet’s guidance ensures faster recovery and helps your dog regain strength safely.
What do vets recommend for dog diarrhea?
One commonly used option is Kaolin/Kaopectate, which is available OTC at most pharmacies. Other options include Propectalin, Canikur, Fast Balance, and Protexin Pro-Fiber (all available OTC at vets, pet stores, and even Amazon).
What is an alternative to metronidazole for dogs?
A natural alternative to metronidazole that many pet owners and vets trust is Diagel, which helps dogs recover from digestive upset by improving gut health instead of suppressing bacteria like an antibiotic. Since it contains no antibiotic, it’s gentle on your dog’s system and works well alongside diet changes, plenty of water, and reducing stress or environmental factors that might trigger stomach issues. In my experience, using such natural options can make recovery smoother without harming the good bacteria your dog needs for long-term health.
What stops diarrhea fast naturally?
If you want to stop diarrhea naturally, the first step is keeping your dog well hydrated by offering plenty of water or mild electrolyte drinks to replace lost fluids. In my experience, feeding bland foods or low-fiber foods like the BRAT diet — bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast — helps calm the stomach while restoring energy. I’ve also noticed that adding a little ginger or fennel seed tea can ease cramping, and using probiotics supports better digestion by improving gut balance. This gentle approach allows your dog’s system to heal quickly without harsh medications.
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