20 Best Foods for a Bulldog with Diarrhea - iHeartDogs.com

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20 Best Foods for a Bulldog with Diarrhea

By: Zyra Capalac
Zyra is a Special Project Coordinator of HomeLife Media and a writer for iHeartDogs.com. She has 3 dogs namely Skye, Luna, and one of them is a rescue, named Tesla.Read more
| April 9, 2026
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There are few things more challenging than a Bulldog with the runs! Managing your dog’s diarrhea can be a challenge, especially if you’re feeding the wrong food. We asked our Facebook Bulldog community the following question: “What’s the best food for a Bulldog that frequently has diarrhea?” We received hundreds of replies, and we have summarized some of the best answers below.
Always remember to consult your veterinarian before making any health changes to your Bulldog’s diet, especially if they frequently suffer from Diarrhea. There may be underlying issues that need to be addressed. iHeartDogs is reader-supported, so some of the links below may be affiliate links where we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Best Foods for a Bulldog with Diarrhea

Blue Buffalo Basics Adult Dry Dog Food

We had to get the Blue Buffalo food, fish & sweet potato formula for our American Bulldog. Most foods only gave diarrhea or a skin rash, sometimes both. This was the only thing he could tolerate to be normal.

Author: Paul S.

Likes: 0


Pumpkin will make the diarrhea worse. You can try boiled chicken and white rice for a few days. You might want to try a diet for sensitive stomachs. Any dairy will make it worse; dogs are lactose intolerant. You might also have a stool sample checked for worms and parasites. Good luck, I hope your baby feels better.

Author: Bonnie S.

Likes: 7


Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Dry

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Dry

Make sure you are not changing the foods too often. That will certainly give your bully the runs. I have been giving my dogs Pro Plan Sensitive Stomach, and that worked for us.

Author: Harry F.

Likes: 3


Taste of the Wild Sierra Mountain Grain-Free Canine Recipe with Roasted Lamb Dry Dog Food

Taste of the Wild Sierra Mountain Grain-Free Canine Recipe with Roasted Lamb Dry Dog Food

I did this for over a year with my first Bulldog until I fed him Taste of the Wild Sierra Mountain. Never had any issues again. I felt so bad for him and was willing to do anything.

Author: Alysia Meholick S.

Likes: 0


Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food

Purina pro plan veterinary diet HA Hydrolyzed vegetarian dry dog food. It has to be prescribed by a vet. Trust me, it will work for you!

Author: Manny M.

Likes: 6


Freshpet Healthy & Natural Dog Food

Freshpet Healthy & Natural Dog Food

We give our Fresh Pet (beef) in the refrigerated section. He loves it and has no runny stools.

Author: Lori P.

Likes: 0


Solid Gold Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach

Solid Gold Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach

Solid gold kibble; we also make a combo of ground turkey meat, chickpeas, spinach, broccoli, carrots, parsnips, and salmon oil. The pups had runny poops initially as they adapted to the combo, but have since adapted.

Author: Stacey S.

Likes: 1


I give my guy pumpkin, and it always helps. I recently made pumpkin peanut butter oatmeal treats and give 1 with each of his feedings, and it’s the first solid poops he ever had. vet tech said it could be the pumpkin plus oatmeal…his new after-dinner mint!

Author: Tracy B.

Likes: 2


Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Chicken Meal Mixers- Dog Food

Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Chicken Meal Mixers- Dog Food

Stella n’ Chewy’s freeze-dried raw. It works every time for us!

Author: Tara Litvin H.

Likes: 1


Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements FortiFlora Daily Probiotics for Dogs

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements FortiFlora Daily Probiotics for Dogs

Try FortiFlora by Purina, it was recommended by my Vet. Worked in two days. You can purchase on Amazon. Worth every penny

Author: Linda Means D.

Likes: 1


Solid Gold Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach

Solid Gold Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach

Mine is on the Solid Gold sensitive formula (the green bag). It’s been the best option for her, and she’s not gassy either.

Author: Ashley C.

Likes: 0


Hill’s Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome

Hill's Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome

Science Diet Biome. My sister’s Bulldog had the same problem. This food works for her.

Author: Colleen M.

Likes: 0


Wellness CORE Adult Dry Dog Food

Wellness CORE Adult Dry Dog Food

We use Wellness CORE Adult Dry Dog Food. My bully boy can not have any type of meat, just fish. Or else he shits water everywhere

Author: Tricia Santana-S.

Likes: 0


Trying different foods in quick succession will cause an upset tummy, although you can usually see a reaction to this fairly quickly, i.e., dry noses, patchy coats, yeast-related issues, etc., alongside the upset tummy. IT is better to feed boiled chicken and rice in between changes of diet. My Bulldogs had different skin issues with dried food, even one specifically for Bulldogs. I feed raw now. It doesn’t suit all Bulldogs, but for me, I have never had an issue alongside plenty of veg and some fruit, bananas, strawberries, and melon. They love it. Hope this has been of some help. My Bulldog has had allergy tests at the vet before, but I have to admit it is quite costly

Author: Mandy O.

Likes: 0


Fromm Four-Star Nutritionals Beef Frittata Veg Dog Food

Fromm 4-star grain-free, stay away from chicken. Many bullies are allergic

Author: Jason L.

Likes: 0


Royal Canin HP Hypoallergenic Dog Food

No chicken meal or chicken by-product ts. I suggest lamb and rice or prescription Royal Canin hydrolyzed protein, or maybe Hills GI Biome.

Author: Rick L.

Likes: 0


Zignature Turkey Limited Ingredient Formula Dry Dog Food

Zignature … turkey flavored … mine can’t eat anything else

Author: Helen A.

Likes: 0


Stop dog diarrhea with pureed or powdered pumpkin. This fall-favorite vegetable is a fantastic natural remedy for diarrhea in some dogs, though in others it’s more effective at treating constipation. Pumpkin on its own is full of fiber, iron, and important vitamins, which keep your pup feeling strong by increasing intestinal absorption of these nutrients.
Plain pureed pumpkin is a great option for dogs, though some canned varieties can hide sugar or spices. Always read the ingredient list! When in doubt, you can always search for a pumpkin puree or powder made especially for dogs.
Author: Rick B.

Likes: 3


Yes, I tried everything with my American Bulldog, and the only thing that worked was cheese. Give them a slice of cheese 3-4 times a day. It usually cures my dog up in one day

Author: Karrie W.

Likes: 1


Boiled chicken and rice with some organic, canned pumpkin for several days, no dog food. Slowly add back the dog food with chicken and rice, and pumpkin. Do this for about a week.

Author: Sue H.

Likes: 0


FAQs About the Best Foods for a Bulldog with Diarrhea

1. What are the most common causes of diarrhea in Bulldogs?

Dietary changes, food intolerances, infections, parasites, or stress can cause diarrhea in Bulldogs. Their sensitive digestive systems make them more prone to stomach upsets than some other breeds.

2. Which ingredients should I look for in food to help soothe my Bulldog’s digestion?

Look for easily digestible ingredients like boiled chicken, turkey, rice, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes. Foods with limited ingredients and added probiotics can also support gut health.

3. Are bland diets like chicken and rice safe for Bulldogs with diarrhea?

Yes, a simple, bland diet like boiled chicken and white rice is often recommended in the short term. It helps rest the digestive system while providing essential nutrients.

4. How long should I feed my Bulldog a special diet after diarrhea starts?

Typically, a bland or sensitive-stomach diet is given for 2–3 days or until stools firm up. Gradually reintroduce regular food afterward to avoid further upset.

5. Can food allergies be the reason behind my Bulldog’s diarrhea?

Absolutely. Bulldogs are prone to food sensitivities, especially to common proteins like beef or dairy, which can lead to chronic diarrhea.

6. Is grain-free food better for Bulldogs with sensitive stomachs?

Not always. Some Bulldogs do well on grain-free diets, while others benefit from grains like rice or oats. It depends on the individual dog’s tolerance.

7. Should I switch my Bulldog’s food immediately or gradually during diarrhea?

If diarrhea is severe, a temporary immediate switch to a bland diet is okay. However, long-term food changes should always be done gradually over several days.

8. Are probiotics helpful for Bulldogs experiencing diarrhea?

Yes, probiotics can help restore healthy gut bacteria and improve digestion. They are often recommended during and after episodes of diarrhea.

9. When should I take my Bulldog to the vet for diarrhea?

If diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours, contains blood, or is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or dehydration, you should consult your veterinarian promptly.

10. Can dehydration become a serious issue for Bulldogs with ongoing diarrhea?

Yes, dehydration is a major concern. Always ensure your Bulldog has access to fresh water, and consider electrolyte solutions if recommended by your vet.

From Tummy Troubles to Tail Wags

Finding the right food for a Bulldog with diarrhea isn’t just about calming a sensitive stomach; it’s about restoring comfort, energy, and that lovable, wiggly spirit Bulldogs are known for. With thoughtful choices and a little patience, you can turn mealtime into a moment of healing and happiness. Keep observing, keep caring, and don’t be afraid to adjust until your pup thrives. After all, every small step you take brings your dog closer to a healthier, happier life. Because at the heart of it all, every dog matters, and together, we can help create happy homes, healthy dogs, and empty shelters.

RELATED: The Complete Dog Food Guide: Nutrition, Ingredients, Feeding & How to Choose

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