"Magic Soup" (for Dogs)

I'll preface this by saying I'm not a veterinarian nor have I checked this out with any vets. My mom has been part of the dog show circuit for as long as I can remember and this recipe has been passed-down and revised over many years by many people who have many dogs.

I use this "soup" when my dogs (the monstas) have diarrhea (recommend doubling or tripling water recommended below, to avoid dehydration) or have been vomiting (after a 24-hour fast, to relax the stomach), especially when I suspect it is due to something they have eaten (bugs, usually). I have not tried it with cats and have no idea if it works.

Definitely feel free to check this out with your vet and let me know if they have any comments or recommendations.

Soup Recipe (measurements depend on size of dog):
1 part canned pumpkin (plain, not spiced)
1 part chicken broth (look for low-fat, low-sodium)
1 part Greek yogurt (plain and non-fat, if possible)
3 parts overcooked white rice (should be mushy and cooled)


For my 15lb mini schnauzer, I pre-mix about 2 cups of this soup when she starts showing symptoms, then add water when I serve, using this schedule and these measurements (again, adjust for your size dog):

Feeding Schedule:
1st day (after fasting, if necessary): 2 tbsp soup + 2 tbsp water, 4 times/day
2nd day: 2 tbsp soup + 2 tbsp water, 4 times/day, adding tiny amount of regular food (less than a tsp)
3rd day: 2 tbsp soup + 2 tbsp water, 2 times/day, adding 25% of normal regular food serving
4th day: 1 tbsp soup + 1 tbsp water, 2 times/day, adding 50% of normal regular food serving
5th day: 1/2 tbsp soup + 1/2 tbsp water, 2 times/day, adding 75% of normal regular food serving
6th day: 100% regular food serving

If you feed your dog hard kibble, you may want to soak it in water until mushy for days 2 through 5. This expands the food in the bowl, which is preferable to expanding in a sensitive tummy.

I also add a tsp or so of the soup to regular food servings when my dogs are on an anti-biotic and for about a week after.

You know your dog better than anyone so use your best judgment regarding serving size and proportions of this soup. Some dogs respond quite well and others may not see any positive effect. Also, this is a home remedy not to be viewed as a substitute for veterinary treatment, which you should seek when you think it is necessary.