Top 10 Best Dog Food for Firm Stools

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Top 10 Best Dog Food for Firm Stools

No, this is not the best conversation starter to have over the dinner table, but sometimes these things need to be discussed. No one likes a sloppy stool, not you, not Fido.

But diarrhea is one of the most common health problems faced by dogs. And just like if you were suffering from diarrhea, you’d probably take something for it. Thankfully, there are also steps you can take for Fido too.

Here in this guide, we are going to talk you through how feeding him the right nutrition can improve his stool status. We have created a buying guide, too, so that you understand what to look for.

We have also spent hours trawling through the internet in search of the best dog foods for firm stools, just so that you don’t have to. Only seven food picks made it onto our top list, but you can be sure that they will do the job –  all with in-depth reviews to help you choose the right one for Fido.

So, take a deep breath, and let’s talk all things stools.

Will fiber firm up dog poop?

Yes. Fiber can help balance digestive health and firm up loose stool. If your dog’s digestive system needs a fiber boost, these products can help balance gut health, firm up loose stool, and keep your canine regular

Does over-feeding a dog cause a runny stool?

Yes. Over-feeding can cause health problems, including loose stools, abdominal discomfort, and inflammation.

Does banana firm up dog poop?

Yes. Bananas have high fiber content to support digestive health and harden loose stools.

Is cheese good for dogs with diarrhea?

No. Feeding your dog cheese or other dairy products can cause diarrhea and other digestive issues.

Can yogurt firm up dog stools?

Yogurt has beneficial bacteria, which can be helpful for dogs who can tolerate dairy products.

Why does my dog’s poop consistency change after he eats new food?

Changes in dog food can affect your dog’s poop. But the adjustment period is short-lived, and your dog’s poop becomes normal quickly.

My dog ate something on his walk; should I expect to see loose stools?

Dogs are natural scavengers and love to explore everything! Sometimes they will eat something inappropriate out on their daily walk. Depending on your dog’s gut activity, you might see signs soon after they’ve eaten it. If you notice runny stools, then seek veterinary attention. Make sure there is fresh, clean water available to help them stay hydrated.

What food is the best diet for dogs with diarrhea?

Choose bland, easily digestible foods such as brown rice, yogurt, and oatmeal. You can also choose high protein foods such as chicken or eggs for easy digestion. Stick to this diet until your dog’s symptoms improve and his stool firms up.

Why is my dog’s poop orange?

Orange dog poop can indicate a biliary or liver issue, and you should discuss it with your vet.

What are the red streaks in my dog’s poop?

Red streaks in your dog’s poop indicate blood presence. If you see blood in dog stool, we recommend checking your dog’s anus for cuts and investigate where the blood originates.

Why is my dog’s poop black?

Black dog poop is a sign of bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. If you notice black dog stool, consult with your vet as soon as possible.

Why is my dog’s poop grey and greasy?

Grey and greasy dog poop indicate a biliary or pancreatic problem.

The 10 Best Dog Foods for Firm Stools

Hill’s Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Food – Best Overall

Hill's Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome

Hill’s prescription diet was formulated by a team of canine nutritionists and veterinarians to tackle the issue of gastrointestinal problems. It uses their exclusive ActivBiome technology, which is designed to work the bacteria in Fido’s gut.

By doing so, it breaks everything that he eats down as naturally as possible, and it passes through his digestive system with ease. It releases postbiotics, which supports his gastrointestinal tract (GI) to break down the food he consumes.

It will encourage healthy and firm stools, reduce the risk of unhealthy stools in the future, and improve his digestive system overall.

Real chicken is still the first ingredient, and it provides an overall well-balanced diet for his nutritional needs. The fiber content in this product is 9%, and ingredients such as ground pecan shells, oats, and dried beet pulp aid in the stool firming process.

This is a prescription formula, meaning that you have to have an authorized prescription from your vet to buy this product. But for those with a super-sensitive system, it is the best product available.

Cons
  • Only available on prescription
Pros
  • Gentle on GI tract
  • Releases postbiotics
  • Prescribed by vets
  • High fiber content

Nature’s Logic Canine Duck & Salmon Meal

Nature's Logic Canine Duck & Salmon Meal Feast All Life Stages Dry Dog Food
Main ingredients: Duck meal, millet, turkey meal
Protein content: 38%
Fat content: 15%
Calories: 416.99%

Nature’s Logic Canine Duck & Salmon Meal is a dry dog food that’s high in protein, and it has duck meal, millet, and turkey meal as the first ingredients. This formula is 100% natural without the use of synthetic vitamins and minerals. It has probiotics and digestive enzymes to help firm the stool, and it contains healthy fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, kelp, cranberries, and spinach. It lacks any gluten for fur babies with gluten allergies.

Some dogs simply will not eat the food, and the company’s customer service could be better. Many consumers were not able to get their money back, and the food is expensive. The manufacturer does offer other flavors if your dog prefers chicken, lamb, pork, or beef.

Cons
  • Poor customer service
  • Some dogs will not eat the food
  • Difficult to get money back
Pros
  • 100% natural formula
  • No synthetic vitamins and minerals
  • Contains probiotics and digestive enzymes
  • Gluten-free
  • Other flavors available

Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Natural Food – Best Value

Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6

This is our best value option because it is the best dog food for firm stools for the money. The size of the bag is considerably large, considering how much it costs, which is great for those owners who are on a tighter budget.

It is a limited ingredient diet with just six ingredients for simple digestion. It has everything that Fido needs to firm his stools and nothing that he doesn’t need. Lamb meal is the primary protein source, and it is the first ingredient, too, which is essential for his general nutritional needs. Lamb is known to be gentle on his gut.

It is a good option for those dogs who are allergic to chicken, which is the most common ingredient used in dog foods. The only reason this kibble didn’t make it into the number one spot is that it has a lower fiber content (4%), which for many, is not enough to firm stools.

Thankfully, there are some dogs out there who need a lower fiber content for firmer stools. So, this makes it an excellent option for them, or those dogs who need an average level.

Cons
  • Some might need more fiber
  • Omega fat ingredients limited
Pros
  • Lamb gentle on the digestive tract
  • Chicken free
  • Great value
  • Free from corn, wheat, and soy

Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Food – Best for Puppies

Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream

This is the best food for puppies who are struggling with their stool and digestive health. Taste of the Wild is renowned for its gentle formulas made with probiotic ingredients. These fermentation ingredients promote friendly gut in his bacteria, which helps with regular digestion.

It has a low fiber content (3%), but this is not an issue for many dogs. Instead, it relies on a k9 specific strain of probiotic to makes his stools firmer. Dried chicory root and yucca schidigera extract are known for stool firming and reducing stool odor too.

Salmon and fish meal are the first two ingredients on this list, meaning he still gets enough protein and omega fatty acids for puppy growing power. And a variety of vitamins and minerals support his developing immune system.

It is a chicken and egg-free recipe, again, making it an excellent option for puppies with these intolerances. And it is grain-free too.

Some reviewers commented that the kibble smelt strongly of fish, but this doesn’t seem to put dogs off.

Cons
  • Some might need more fiber
  • Strong fish smell
Pros
  • Grain-free option
  • High-quality fish protein
  • Probiotic ingredients
  • Chicken and egg-free

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Chicken Dry Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult

Blue Buffalo is known for its high fiber content, which is essential for some dogs and their digestive system and stool firming needs. The fiber content is 6%, thanks to ingredients such as peas, flaxseed, dried chicory root, and alfalfa pellets.

It lists probiotic fermentation ingredients to ensure easy digestion, as well as yucca schidigera extract for less pungent poop odor.

This kibble is also great for those who don’t need their stools firming. Meaning that if you have a multi-dog household, this kibble is ideal for all, eliminating the need for buying various recipes.

The protein content the highest on this list, making this a good option for dogs who are very energetic or have a large muscle mass. And it is super tasty thanks to deboned chicken, chicken meal and fish meal.

It also has its exclusive LifeSource Bits full of nutrients that aid his digestive system to be regular and healthy. The only negative we can see here is that some reviewers found that their dogs ate around the LifeSource Bits. Thankfully most didn’t.

Cons
  • Too rich for some
  • Some dogs eat around LifeSource Bits
Pros
  • High-fiber content
  • High meat content
  • Probiotic ingredients

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

I and Love and You Nude Super Food Grain-Free Poultry Palooza Dry Dog Food
Main ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal
Protein content: 45%
Fat content: 15%
Calories: 354 kcal/cup

I and Love and You Nude Super Food Grain-Free Poultry Palooza Dry Dog Food includes chicken as the first ingredient. Plus, the kibble is the shape of a heart, which is fitting for the company’s name. This food contains prebiotics and probiotics to aid in your dog’s digestion, and it also has superfoods, such as flaxseeds, coconut oil, and turmeric, for added nutrition. It has omega fatty acids for healthy coats and skin and fruits and vegetables to round out this nutritious grain-free recipe. The manufacturer adds their own Happy Tummeez Plus, which aids in healthy digestion, as well as digestive enzymes.

It’s high in protein (45%) and helps dogs with sensitive stomachs digest the food easily. It’s also suitable for dogs of all ages and breeds. It’s one of the more affordable options on our list, as well.

Some dogs may not do well on this food, as some consumers have reported their dogs became ill after eating. It does have a high protein content, so it may be wise to check with your vet before switching to this food.

Disclaimer: Check with your vet to ensure that grain-free is necessary for your dog. Grains are beneficial to most dogs unless your pup suffers from an allergy.

Cons
  • Some dogs may have gastrointestinal problems with this food
Pros
  • Chicken is first ingredient
  • Blend of superfoods for optimal nutrition and healthy coat
  • High in protein
  • Contains prebiotics and probiotics for healthy digestion
  • Affordable

Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Wellness CORE Grain-Free

This formula is designed for those pooches who have had too many Scooby snacks and need to lose a few pounds. The reason this recipe is good for stool firming is that it has a very high fiber content (12%), which some dogs need for a healthy and regular digestive system.

Fiber also helps to keeps dogs feeling fuller for longer, decreasing the chances of them scavenging for more snacks. Thankfully this diet also focuses on Fido’s complete nutritional needs.

It is a protein-rich recipe and provides lean proteins such as turkey and chicken. It is full of prebiotic fiber such as spinach, broccoli and kale, and those all-important probiotic fermentation ingredients. Yucca schidigera extract is listed, too.

Wellness Core is a premium product, and this recipe is very high-quality. So, you can be sure that should work wonders for his digestive system and firmer stools. But premium recipes also come with a premium price tag, so it isn’t suited to all owners and budgets. If it does, this is a fantastic option.

Cons
  • Reduced weight formula not needed by all
  • More expensive than others
Pros
  • Protein-rich recipe
  • High fiber content

Zignature Kangaroo Formula Bites Dry Dog Food

Zignature Kangaroo

This is a premium recipe that is designed with the very best ingredients. The only reason that this product isn’t listed higher is that it has a premium price tag, making it unsuitable for some with a tighter budget. But if you can stretch your budget, this is a fantastic option.

It is designed for smaller canines, many of whom are known to have sensitive stomachs. There are options for bigger dogs if this product is the best choice for your pup.

The primary protein ingredient is kangaroo, which is not only tasty, but it has twice the amount of vitamin B12 compared to most other meat sources. Vitamin B12 is important for digestive health, and many dog owners found that this product solved their pup’s digestive issues.

It has an average fiber content (4%), but it still has fibrous ingredients such as chickpeas and lentils. It is a grain-free option that is overall, easy to digest.

Cons
  • Fewer probiotic ingredients
  • Premium price
Pros
  • Alternative kangaroo protein

Nutro Wholesome Essentials Adult Dry Dog Food

Nutro Wholesome Essentials Adult

Nutro Wholesome essential is made with lamb and brown rice, which are both known to be easy to digest ingredients. This means his gut has to work less hard, which means firmer stools and less gas.

It is an excellent value recipe, and you get a lot of bang for your buck with this product too. It has a below-average protein content (22%), making it a good option for dogs who find meaty products too rich.

It is a grain inclusive diet, which makes it a better option for some dogs, as their digestive system needs the extra grainy fiber for regularity. It uses gentle grains such as brown rice, oatmeal, and chickpeas.

It has a variety of vitamins and minerals to help with regular digestion and overall health.

The only criticism we have of this product is that it does not contain as many probiotic ingredients as the other products on this list. But it is highly rated by owners of dogs with sensitivities, so this clearly isn’t a concern for all dogs.

Cons
  • Fewer probiotic ingredients
  • Relies heavily on rice
Pros
  • Easy to digest ingredients
  • Gentle lamb protein

Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend Beef & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food – Vet’s Choice

Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend Beef & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
Main ingredients: Beef, rice, whole grain wheat
Protein content: 26%
Fat content: 16%
Calories: 360 kcal/cup

Our vet’s choice is Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend Beef & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food is packed with protein, and beef is the first ingredient. It contains vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, and it has live probiotics and natural prebiotic fiber for maximum digestion, which is why it made our list for firm stools. This recipe is comprised of hard kibble mixed with shredded tender pieces for a unique texture that most dogs love.

This recipe is high in protein, and it provides an optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help your dog maintain an ideal body weight.

One complaint among consumers is that some bags contain primarily hard kibble and no tender chunks.

Pros
  • Packed with protein
  • Prebiotics and probiotics for optimal digestion
  • Beef is first ingredient
  • Optimal protein-to-fat ratio for ideal weight
Cons
  • Some bags do not contain shredded, tender chunks

Buyer’s Guide: Selecting Best Dog Foods to Harden Stool

Here is the section where we are going to walk you through a variety of things you need to learn or think about when it comes to your dog’s stools.

To understand how to rectify the runny stool situation, you need to understand what could be causing the problem in the first place.

It’s important to remember that not every dog is the same. So, if your vet hasn’t told you exactly how to tackle the problem, you might need to try a few options before you find the one that works for Fido.

When Should You Worry About Dog Diarrhea?

If he has diarrhea and it has gone on for longer than 48 hours, it’s time to take him to the vet. This is a strong sign that it is more than just a tummy bug or something that he has eaten.

Diarrhea can be a sign of intestinal worms, inflammatory bowel disease, colonic ulcers, polyps, or cancer, to name just a few. The sooner you get it looked at, the sooner you can get him on the road to recovery.

If your dog is experiencing any of the following symptoms in addition to runny stools, it is vital to get him to a vet straight away:

  • Fever
  • Bloating
  • Vomiting
  • Lethargy
  • Mucus or blood in the stool

You might get to the vet, and they’ll tell you it is because the current food that you are feeding him isn’t working well. And here, it is essential to switch him to a kibble that will rectify the problem, such as the ones above.

What Causes Soft Dog Stools?

  • Diarrhea is the result of little no water or nutrient absorption and fecal matter passing through his intestines too quickly. There are a variety of reasons why your dog’s stools arent as firm as they should be. And most of the time it is nothing to worry about.
  • Maybe he has eaten something that didn’t agree with him, or perhaps he picked up something he shouldn’t have on your recent walkies, such as bird poop or a spicy chip. It could be because he has an allergy to his food, or he is merely experiencing a little bit of stress.
  • Sometimes, however, it is a sign that something else is at play. It could be a symptom of a more severe problem that you need to get checked out.

What Ingredients To Look Out For To Harden His Stool

Nutrition is a great way to firm up his stools if it doesn’t require veterinary intervention. But, the issue here is that not all dogs are the same, and they need different things to firm up their stools.

How Firm Should Dog’s Poop Be?

  • A firm stool is one that you can pick up in a poop bag, and it does not squish in your hands as you scoop it up. If it resembles soft ice cream that is considered to be a soft stool. If it is like soup, well, we’ll say no more.
  • If it just happens once or twice, the likelihood is is that it is as a result of eating something he shouldn’t have done. If it happened regularly, it might be because he is allergic to something you are feeding him. Or he isn’t getting enough of something, such as fiber or nutrients. Or perhaps too much of something, such as fiber (yes, confusing!) or protein.
  • This is when you should switch his food to a gentler diet…

Natural Ingredients To Harden Dog Stool

  • Dogs with regular soft stools usually have sensitive systems that need higher quality foods. Higher quality foods usually list natural ingredients. Natural ingredients are definitely better for a dog’s digestive system, as this is the way that nature intended him to eat.
  • The exception is kibbles made by leading brands, such as Hills Science Diet, where scientists and veterinarians believe certain man-made ingredients are necessary. But they never use ingredients that are known to irritate digestive systems. Budget store kibbles, on the other hand, do.
  • Artificial preservatives, colors, or additives are known to agitate sensitive dogs, so steer clear of these ingredients. If you see ingredients such as butylated hydroxyanisole or ‘Blue 2’ or ‘Red 40’, put it back down on the shelf and move onto the next.

Dog Protein

  • Some dogs are allergic to specific proteins. And you can be sure that if Fido is allergic to chicken and you give it to him, his runny stools are the least of your worries. Lamb is often used in limited ingredient diets because they are gentler to digest. So if you suspect protein is the culprit, try him on a lamb based kibble.
  • Sometimes, dogs can struggle to digest kibbles that are too high in protein, and as such, you should look for a kibble that provides less. Again, this is all about working out what works for Fido.

Dog Prebiotics and Probiotics

  • Prebiotic fibers are essential for firm stools, because they essentially add bulk to the poop, making it less runny. Prebiotic fibers are wholesome veggies, fruit, and grains, such as bananas, chickpeas, chicory root, and oatmeal. So when you are checking out the ingredient label, if you spot any of these, it’s going to help toughen his poop.
  • To keep it simple, probiotics are the friendly bacteria that eats the prebiotic fiber. Ingredients to look out for are lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, to name just a few. Many high-quality formulas will fortify their kibbles with these ingredients, which provide live yogurt cultures with every bite.
  • Fiber is a tricky one because too much and too little can wreak havoc with doggy digestive systems. And there is no way for you to calculate how much he needs.
  • 2% to 5% is the average fiber content in most kibbles, and a high fiber diet is anything between 6% and 12%. Most dogs with runny stools need a higher fiber diet, but if you have any questions, be sure to speak to your vet, who will be able to offer you tailored advice.

Yucca Schidigera Extract

With runny stools usually comes stinky gas, and if Fido’s poop or gas is smelling funky, this could ease the burden on your nostrils. Yucca schidigera is a herbal plant that is used in pet foods to reduce the smell of your dog’s poop. It can reduce the odor by up to 26%. Higher quality kibbles will list this ingredient, cheaper ones will not.

How Do You Know That It Is Working For Him?

  • Well, the proof is in the pudding, and when we say pudding, we mean poop. Once you feed him the new foods, follow him around when you notice he has the fidgets or watch him poop if you are out on walkies. This might sound odd, but you need to match the poop to the pooch.
  • If his poop is still just as runny over the next 48 hours, there is a good chance that his new food is not working. If it has firmed up slightly, there is a chance that it is. Keep an eye on his poop, and over 48 hours, or so it should start to firm up considerably.
  • Ultimately, all dogs are different, and he might need to kiss a few frogs before he finds his prince, as it were. The most important rule here is to listen to his needs, and follow what his body (and poop!) are telling you.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, you now understand why your dog’s stools are runny, and what you can do to make them firmer. By feeding your pooch a better quality kibble that focuses on his digestive health, you are providing him better health and overall happiness.

You need to work out what works for him, and you’ll certainly know about it when it isn’t working for him. But when you find that perfect recipe, it will definitely be worth the trials and tribulations.

By sticking to our recommendations above, not only will you save yourself a lot of time searching through hundreds of different products, but you can be sure one of them will work for Fido. Thanks to the reviews, it’s simple to choose one that suits you, and Fido, best.

Our best overall product is Hill’s Prescription Gastrointestinal Biome Diet, but remember you need a vet prescription before you buy this one. And our best value for your money is Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Natural formula.

Edward Hollon is an avid dog lover and writer, knowing all there is to know about our furry friends. Edward has been writing for petdii for three years now, wanting to use her knowledge for good and share everything she can with new dog owners. Edward has two dogs herself - a German shepherd called Banjo and a chocolate labrador called Buttons. Edward knows more than anyone how adjusting to new life with a puppy can turn your life upside down, and she wants to ease some of the burdens through her articles.