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The 7 Best Dog Foods For Firm Stools In 2024

Diarrhea in dogs is a concerning issue for any pet parent. If your dog is experiencing watery stools, it's important to address the problem promptly.

The cause could be something as simple as an upset stomach or as serious as an underlying health condition. In our buyer's guide, we'll cover the possible causes of diarrhea in dogs.

Our guide includes our top eight recommendations for the best dog foods for firm stools. Choosing the right food for a dog with diarrhea can be challenging, but BestForPets (bestforpets.org) is here to help. Let's get started!

Reviews

1. Rachael Ray Nutrish Lamb Meal & Brown Rice with Limited Ingredients

 Rachael Ray Nutrish Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe

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Rachael Ray Nutrish Limited Ingredient Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe  is an excellent option for dogs with special dietary needs.

This dog food contains only six essential ingredients, all of which contribute to your pet’s optimal health. Additionally, this dog food is free of any artificial flavors, additives, or colors that can cause allergies or digestive problems.

The primary ingredient in this dog food is lamb meal, which is a high-quality and easily digestible protein source.

Brown rice is also included in this recipe as a great source of long-lasting energy. The addition of chicken fat provides omega fatty acids that are beneficial for your dog’s health.

This dog food contains all of the essential vitamins and minerals your dog needs to maintain good health. Taurine is an amino acid that is essential for the health of your pet’s eyes, brain, heart, and digestive system.

Keep in mind that the kibble size of this dog food may be too large for smaller dog breeds. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the new formulation.

However, this dog food is the most affordable option on our list, making it a great choice for pet owners on a budget.

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that contains only essential ingredients, consider Rachael Ray Nutrish Limited Ingredient Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe for your furry friend.

Pros

The first component is lamb meal.

Ingredients of poor quality

Several vitamins and minerals

Affordable

Cons

Smaller breeds may find the kibble size too large.


2. Dog Food Hill’s Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome

Hill's Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome Digestive

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Hill's Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome DigestiveFiber Care with Chicken Dry Dog Food  is an excellent choice for dogs with digestive issues.

This premium prescription diet is specially formulated by expert nutritionists and veterinarians to promote your dog’s digestive health.

It contains a proprietary ingredient technology called ActivBiome plus, which is designed to activate beneficial intestinal flora and promote a healthy GI microbiome balance in your dog.

This dog food is a unique blend of prebiotic fibers that promote regular bowel movements and support your dog’s digestive health.

With the food’s active fibers, you can expect healthy feces within 24 hours, and the release of postbiotics prevents leaky intestine, reduces inflammation, and aids in the absorption of essential nutrients in the digestive tract.

The primary ingredient in this dog food is chicken, which is a high-fiber protein source that contains 17% fiber. This formula was designed with your dog’s digestive system in mind, and it can help your dog attain firmer stools in a matter of days.

Hill’s has been a trusted name in pet nutrition for almost seven decades, and their expertise is evident in this prescription diet. The food also includes additional cereals and pecan shells, both of which are excellent sources of fiber.

It’s important to note that Hill’s Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome DigestiveFiber Care with Chicken Dry Dog Food contains no added preservatives.

This dog food is only available via prescription, and it can be quite expensive, which may not be affordable for everyone.

However, as this is a US Vet Recommended therapeutic pet food, it is advised that you consult your veterinarian to ensure that this prescription diet is the best option for your dog’s digestive health.

Pros

The first component is chicken.

High fiber content

Postbiotics are included for gut health.

Veterinarians and dietitians collaborated to create this product.

Cons

Expensive

A veterinarian’s prescription is necessary.


3. Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food ACANA Puppy Recipe

ACANA Dog Puppy Recipe

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We highly recommend ACANA Puppy Recipe Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food  for your beloved furry companion.

This high-quality puppy food is packed with protein, with deboned chicken, deboned turkey, and poultry meal as the top three ingredients, providing 31% protein to support your puppy’s growth and development.

This grain-free formula is not only abundant in protein, but it is also rich in fiber from sources like pumpkin, collards, apples, and pears.

This is beneficial for your puppy’s overall health as it promotes healthy digestion and firm stools. Additionally, the freeze-dried poultry and turkey on top of the food will surely entice your puppy’s taste buds.

ACANA Puppy Recipe Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food is free of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, making it a nutritious option for your dog’s diet.

However, it’s important to note that some canines may experience digestive issues while consuming this food, so it’s essential to monitor your dog closely for symptoms like regurgitation and diarrhea.

ACANA Puppy & Junior dog food is nutrient-dense and high in protein, providing complete nourishment for your puppy through free-range poultry and turkey, wild-caught seafood, and cage-free eggs.

This dog food contains high-quality animal ingredients like organs, cartilage, and bone, which provide essential nutrients for your puppy’s development.

ACANA sources their Fresh Regional Ingredients from reputable farmers, ranchers, and fisherman, ensuring that your puppy’s food is made from only the finest ingredients.

This dog food is also grain-free, containing no gluten, potato, or tapioca, ingredients that are prevalent in many pet diets today.

Instead, ACANA employs whole, high-quality animal ingredients to create a Biologically Appropriate diet that nourishes canines in accordance with their natural, biological requirements.

It’s important to note that unless your puppy has a specific sensitivity to grains, they are beneficial for the majority of dogs. However, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the optimal diet for your puppy’s individual needs.

Pros

The initial components are deboned chicken and deboned turkey.

Puppies require a high protein content.

There are no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives in this product.

Flavorings include freeze-dried chicken and turkey-coated kibble.

Cons

Some puppies may experience stomach difficulties.


4. Adult Shredded Blend Beef & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food Purina Pro Plan

urina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs

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We highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend , as it has received the highest recommendation from veterinarians. This wet dog food is made with genuine beef and rice, making it a perfect option for your furry companion.

Not only is this food high in protein, but it is also rich in essential nutrients like vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and grooming.

Additionally, the food contains live probiotics and natural prebiotic fiber, which aid digestion and encourage the formation of firm feces, making it an excellent choice for your dog’s overall health.

This unique formulation combines hard kibble with soft shreds to create a texture that most canines enjoy. The excellent protein-to-fat ratio of Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend contributes to your dog’s healthy body weight.

However, some customers have reported that certain packages contain almost exclusively hard kibble and no tender fragments.

This product is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics to support digestive and immune health and comes in a 47-pound bag, formerly known as SAVOR Shredded Blend Beef and Rice Formula.

Overall, Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend is an excellent choice for your dog’s diet because it contains high-quality protein and essential nutrients that promote overall health and wellbeing.

Pros

Contains a lot of protein

Prebiotics and probiotics for digestive health

The first component is beef.

Protein-to-fat ratio for optimal weight

Cons

Some packs lack crushed, delicate bits.


5. Nude Super Food Grain-Free Poultry Palooza Dry Dog Food I and Love and You

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We highly recommend  I, Love, and You Nude Grain-Free Poultry Superfood Palooza Dry Dog Food  for your furry friend’s diet. This food is formulated with high-quality ingredients and loaded with essential nutrients that promote overall health and wellbeing.

The food is shaped like a heart, which is appropriate given the company’s name, and contains poultry as its primary ingredient.

It contains prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants like flaxseeds, coconut oil, and turmeric, which provide additional nutrients.

Additionally, the food includes omega fatty acids that promote healthy skin and coat, as well as fruits and vegetables for a balanced, grain-free meal.

This food is unique because of its proprietary Happy Tummeez Plus, which aids digestion and contains digestive enzymes. With 45% protein, this food is a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and it’s suitable for dogs of all ages and breeds. It’s also one of the most affordable options on our list.

It’s important to note, however, that some dogs may not react well to this food, as some customers have reported that their dogs became ill after consuming it. Before transitioning to this regimen, it’s recommended to consult your veterinarian due to its high protein content.

It’s important to note that grains are beneficial for most dogs unless they’re allergic to them. This food is grain-free, as it does not contain maize, wheat, rice, soy, or oats.

Instead, it employs non-GMO protein and produce, with no grains that can contribute to your pet’s obesity and lethargy as unnecessary additives.

Overall, I, Love, and You Nude Grain-Free Poultry Superfood Palooza Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for your dog’s diet, as it contains high-quality ingredients and essential nutrients that promote overall health and wellness.

Pros

The first component is chicken.

Superfood blend for optimal nourishment and a healthy coat

High protein content

Prebiotics and probiotics are included for digestive health.

Affordable

Cons

This meal may cause stomach issues in certain dogs.


6. Adult Fish & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula

Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Fish & Brown Rice Flavor

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Formula Blue Buffalo Life Protection Adult Fish & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for dogs that love fish in their diet.

This food is well-rounded and nutritious, as it contains whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and an adequate amount of protein.

The food contains deboned whitefish and menhaden meal, which are both high-quality sources of protein. Additionally, this formulation includes glucosamine for joint health and omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat.

This food also provides calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth, antioxidants for immune health, and a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.

It’s important to note that this food has a strong fishy odor, and some dogs may be picky eaters and only consume certain kibble pieces. However, if your dog doesn’t prefer fish, this line of food from the same company offers poultry and lamb varieties.

This food is reasonably priced and comes in 15-pound, 30-pound, and 34-pound packages.

Blue Buffalo’s natural dry dog food is made with premium ingredients and contains no poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy.

The first ingredient is deboned whitefish, followed by brown rice, cranberries, and vegetables, providing a balanced diet for your dog.

This food is formulated with essential proteins and carbs for energy needs and omega-3 and 6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat.

Additionally, this food contains immunity-boosting LifeSource Bits, which contain a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

In conclusion, Formula Blue Buffalo Life Protection Adult Fish & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for dogs that enjoy fish in their diet. It contains high-quality ingredients, essential nutrients, and immunity-boosting LifeSource Bits, promoting overall health and wellbeing.

Pros

The initial components are whitefish and menhaden meal.

With entire grains, fruits, and veggies, it is complete and balanced.

Glucosamine supplements for joint health

Calcium and phosphorus are essential for strong bones and teeth.

Affordable

Cons

Some dogs dislike the fishy flavor and may gnaw on food.


7. Canine Duck & Salmon Meal by Nature’s Logic

 Nature'S Logic Canine Duck & Salmon Meal Feast

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Nature's Logic Canine Duck & Salmon Meal  is a high-quality, natural dog food that features duck meal, millet, and turkey meal as the primary ingredients. This blend is completely natural and does not contain any synthetic vitamins or minerals.

This food also includes probiotics and digestive enzymes to promote stool firmness and a range of nutritious fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, kelp, cranberries, and spinach. Additionally, it is gluten-free for dogs with gluten sensitivities.

However, it’s important to note that some dogs may refuse to eat this food, and the company’s customer service could be improved.

Moreover, many customers have reported difficulty in getting a refund, and the food is relatively expensive. If your dog prefers chicken, lamb, pork, or beef, the company offers alternative varieties.

This food is free from wheat, corn, rice, soy, potato, peas, or lentils. It also contains probiotics and enzymes to support digestive health. Furthermore, this food is made with ingredients sourced from countries other than China.

In addition, this food contains multiple proteins that make it easy to rotate your dog’s diet, which can help prevent food sensitivities or allergies. Finally, this food is 100% natural, and no synthetic vitamins or minerals are added.

In summary, Nature’s Logic Canine Duck & Salmon Meal is a high-protein, natural dog food that can provide your dog with essential nutrients.

However, it’s important to be aware of the potential issues with customer service and cost. If your dog doesn’t like this food, the company offers alternative varieties with different protein sources.

Pros

Formula is entirely natural.

There are no synthetic vitamins or minerals.

Probiotics and digestive enzymes are included.

Gluten-free

Other tastes are also available.

Cons

Customer service is subpar.

Some dogs refuse to consume the meal.

It’s difficult to get your money back.

Choosing the Best Dog Foods for Firm Stools: A Buyer's Guide

Using Natural Ingredients to Firm Up Dog Stools

Firm stools are a sign of a healthy dog, but not all dogs have the same digestive needs. Dogs with sensitive digestive systems require higher-quality foods that contain natural ingredients.

These ingredients are easier for a dog’s digestive system to process, as they are closer to what dogs would consume in the wild.

Avoiding Artificial Preservatives, Colors, and Additives

Artificial preservatives, colors, and additives can agitate sensitive dogs, so it’s important to avoid them. Ingredients such as butylated hydroxyanisole or ‘Blue 2’ or ‘Red 40’ should be avoided. Instead, look for kibbles with natural ingredients to promote a healthy digestive system.

Prebiotic Fibers and Probiotics

Prebiotic fibers add bulk to stools, which can help reduce diarrhea and promote firmer stools. They can be found in wholesome veggies, fruit, and grains, such as bananas, chickpeas, chicory root, and oatmeal.

Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that consume prebiotic fiber and help promote healthy digestion. Look for kibbles that contain lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacterium animalis fermentation products, as they provide live yogurt cultures with every bite.

Finding the Right Amount of Fiber

Fiber is a key component in a dog’s diet, but it’s important to find the right amount for your dog. Too much or too little fiber can cause digestive issues.

If your dog has runny stools, consult with your veterinarian to determine if a higher fiber diet is appropriate. On average, most kibbles contain 2% to 5% fiber, while a high-fiber diet is anything between 6% and 12%.

Choosing the Right Protein

If your dog is allergic to certain proteins, it’s important to find a protein source that works best for them to avoid digestive issues.

Limited-ingredient diets that incorporate lamb can be a good option for dogs with sensitive digestive systems, as it is easier to digest. Additionally, dogs with difficulty digesting high-protein kibbles may benefit from kibbles with lower protein content.

Using Yucca Schidigera Extract to Reduce Odor

Yucca schidigera extract is a herbal plant that can help reduce the odor of dog waste in high-quality kibbles. It can reduce the odor by up to 26%. Look for kibbles that list this ingredient to help reduce the smell of your dog’s poop or gas.

FAQs

1. What should I avoid when choosing dog food to prevent runny stools?

To prevent runny stools, it’s important to avoid foods that contain artificial ingredients, especially preservatives, colors, and additives.

These ingredients can irritate your dog’s digestive system and cause allergic reactions. Instead, look for foods that contain natural ingredients and avoid those that contain these ingredients.

2. Can a high-fiber diet help promote firm stools in dogs?

Yes, a high-fiber diet can help reduce diarrhea and promote firmer stools in dogs. Look for foods that are high in fiber, but do not overfeed your dog as this may cause bloating and indigestion.

3. Can switching to a limited-ingredient diet help with runny stools?

Yes, switching to a limited-ingredient diet can help reduce the occurrence of runny stools. If your dog is unable to digest certain ingredients, a limited-ingredient diet can help eliminate these triggers.

Choose foods with simple ingredients that do not contain ingredients that may cause allergic reactions.

4. Should I consult with my veterinarian before changing my dog’s diet to promote firm stools?

Yes, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian if your dog experiences runny stools. They can help you determine the best course of action for your dog’s health and well-being.

Your veterinarian may recommend specific foods or dietary changes that can help promote firmer stools in your dog.

5. Does eating bananas help to firm up dog stool?

Yes, bananas are high in fiber which can help with gastrointestinal issues in dogs and promote healthier bowel movements.

6. Can carrots contribute to firmer stool in dogs?

Yes, carrots are a good source of fiber and can help regulate your dog’s bowel movements, contributing to a healthy digestive system and firmer stools.

Conclusion

At BestForPets, we understand the importance of providing dogs with high-quality, nutritious food that promotes optimal digestion and firm stools. That’s why we’ve evaluated some of the best options on the market to help you make an informed decision.

Hill's Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome is another great option, as it’s vet-formulated and includes postbiotics for premium digestive support.

ACANA Puppy Recipe is an ideal choice for puppies, as it provides excellent protein sources to support their growth and development.

Lastly, Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend is a top pick among vets for its optimal nutrition that includes prebiotics and probiotics to promote healthy digestion and firm stools.

We hope our evaluations at BestForPets (bestforpets.org) can assist you in choosing the best dog foods for firm stools and promoting your pup’s overall health and well-being.

Author Image

Dr. Deborah Fletcher

Deborah R. Fletcher, DVM, is a skilled veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience dealing with companion and exotic animals. She has experience caring for a variety of animals, including household cats and dogs, reptiles, birds of prey, and even primates. Dr. Fletcher is a valuable part of the BestForPets team, where she contributes to their aim of providing pets and their owners with the finest possible treatment and services.

Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Deborah Fletcher

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