Signs Your Dog Has an Upset Stomach and When to Worry
Dogs can get upset stomachs just like people do. When a dog’s stomach doesn’t feel right, it can affect their mood, appetite, and overall health. As a pet owner, it’s important to know what signs to look for and when it might be time to call the vet. Early attention can help your furry friend feel better sooner and prevent something more serious.
Understanding a Dog’s Digestive System
A dog’s digestive system starts in the mouth and ends at the tail. It includes the mouth, esophagus (the tube that food travels down), stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. This system breaks down food, absorbs nutrients, and removes waste.
The stomach plays a key role. It uses acids and enzymes to digest food. If something irritates it—like spoiled food or a sudden diet change—it can cause an upset stomach, also called “gastrointestinal upset.”
Learning how this system works can help you spot problems early and keep your dog healthy.
How the Digestive System Works in Dogs
After your dog eats, food travels down the esophagus to the stomach. There, it mixes with digestive juices that break it into smaller pieces. Then, the food moves into the small intestine, where nutrients are absorbed into the body.
The liver and pancreas also help. The liver filters toxins and makes bile, which helps digest fat. The pancreas makes enzymes that break down carbs, proteins, and fats. Finally, anything your dog doesn’t need exits through the large intestine as stool.
When any part of this process is disrupted, your dog may develop an upset stomach.
Common Signs of an Upset Stomach in Dogs
Some signs are easy to spot, while others are more subtle. Pay attention to changes in your dog’s behavior, appetite, and bathroom habits. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
- Vomiting: One of the most obvious signs. It may be clear, yellow, or have undigested food.
- Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools, sometimes with mucus or blood.
- Lack of appetite: Refusing food or eating much less than usual.
- Excessive drooling: Often a sign of nausea or discomfort.
- Gulping or licking lips: Dogs may do this when they feel sick.
- Flatulence: Frequent or smelly gas may point to digestive trouble.
- Grumbling stomach: You might hear gurgling sounds from their belly.
- Lethargy: Tiredness or low energy can come with stomach upset.
- Eating grass: Some dogs eat grass when they feel queasy, though experts still debate why.
These symptoms may come on suddenly or develop slowly over a few days. It’s helpful to write down when they start and how often they occur.
If you notice one or more of these signs, keep an eye on your dog and see if symptoms improve within 24 hours.
Possible Causes of Stomach Upset
An upset stomach in dogs can have many causes. Some are minor, while others need medical care. Here are the most common ones:
- Dietary indiscretion: Eating something they shouldn’t—like garbage, spoiled food, or table scraps.
- Sudden diet changes: Switching dog food too quickly can shock their digestive system.
- Food allergies or sensitivities: Some dogs can’t tolerate certain ingredients like dairy, chicken, or grains.
- Parasites: Worms or protozoa from contaminated water or soil can upset the stomach.
- Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
- Toxins: Ingesting household items like chocolate, cleaning supplies, or plants.
- Motion sickness: Some dogs feel sick in the car or after travel.
- Stress or anxiety: Big changes—like a move or a new pet—can affect digestion.
- Underlying health problems: Conditions like pancreatitis, kidney disease, or even cancer can cause stomach issues.
Knowing what your dog ate or was exposed to can help your vet narrow down the cause. Try to keep track of any changes in food, treats, or environment.
When to See a Vet
Most mild stomach upsets get better within a day. But some situations call for a trip to the vet. Here’s when to be more cautious:
- Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, no energy)
- Refusing food or water for over a day
- Severe or ongoing belly pain (panting, whining, guarding the stomach)
- Swollen or bloated abdomen
- Collapse or extreme weakness
These could signal something more serious, like a blockage or infection. It’s always better to be safe—especially with puppies, senior dogs, or pets with other health problems.
If your dog looks uncomfortable or just “off,” trust your instincts and call your vet.
Supporting Your Dog at Home
If your dog has mild symptoms and seems otherwise okay, you can try a few things at home:
- Withhold food: Skip one or two meals to let their stomach rest (but still offer water).
- Offer bland food: Try plain boiled chicken and white rice in small portions.
- Hydration: Make sure they drink clean, fresh water. You can offer ice cubes if they won’t drink.
- Monitor stool and behavior: Watch for improvements or worsening symptoms.
Don’t give human medications without checking with a vet. Some can be toxic to dogs.
If your dog improves within a day and returns to normal eating and behavior, it was likely a simple upset. Still, it’s smart to review their diet and environment to prevent it from happening again.
Final Thoughts
An upset stomach in dogs is common and often mild, but it’s important to know the signs. Vomiting, diarrhea, or a sudden change in behavior can all point to digestive trouble. Most cases clear up quickly, but some need medical attention.
Keep an eye on your dog, trust your gut, and don’t hesitate to contact your vet with questions. You know your dog best—and with a little care, most stomach upsets can pass without too much trouble.
