What to Do When Your Dog Has an Upset Stomach – Quick Relief Guide!
As a pet nutritionist working in veterinary clinics, I’ve seen my fair share of worried pet parents asking “What to do when your dog has an upset stomach?” It’s a question that comes up a lot, and for good reason—our furry friends can’t tell us when they’re feeling queasy. But trust me, I’ve helped enough dog owners to know that a little knowledge (and some belly-soothing tricks) can go a long way.
Signs Your Dog Has an Upset Stomach
Before jumping into remedies, let’s talk about how to recognize when your pup isn’t feeling their best. Dogs can be surprisingly tough, sometimes hiding their discomfort, but there are some clear telltale signs to watch out for.
- Vomiting or regurgitation – A one-time puke might not be a big deal, but frequent vomiting needs attention.
- Diarrhea or loose stools – If it’s persistent or has blood/mucus, it’s time to act.
- Loss of appetite – Skipping a meal here and there? Could be a stomach issue.
- Excessive drooling – Sometimes, nausea makes dogs drool a lot.
- Lethargy or restlessness – A tummy ache can make them sluggish or oddly fidgety.
- Gulping or licking their lips – A sign of nausea or acid reflux.
- Gurgling noises from the belly – If it sounds like a coffee pot percolating in there, something’s up.
Common Causes of Upset Stomach in Dogs
So, why is your pup feeling under the weather? There are quite a few reasons, and some are more common than others.
1. Eating Something They Shouldn’t Have
Dogs are notorious for gobbling up things that make us cringe—garbage, spoiled food, or even random yard snacks (yes, poop included). If your dog is an opportunistic eater, tummy troubles might be inevitable.
2. Sudden Diet Changes
Ever switch your dog’s food without a transition period? That can lead to some messy consequences. Dogs need a gradual shift in their diet to avoid digestive upsets.
3. Food Allergies or Sensitivities
Some pups just can’t handle certain ingredients. Chicken, beef, dairy, and grains are common triggers. If tummy troubles are a frequent issue, a food sensitivity might be the culprit.
4. Infections or Parasites
Bacteria like Salmonella or parasites like Giardia can wreak havoc on a dog’s digestive system. If your dog has diarrhea that won’t quit, it might be time for a vet visit.
5. Stress or Anxiety
Just like us, dogs can get stomachaches from stress. Big changes—like moving, new pets, or even thunderstorms—can throw their gut into chaos.
6. Overeating or Eating Too Fast
Gulping down food too quickly can lead to indigestion, bloating, and even vomiting. If your dog eats like it’s a race, consider a slow feeder bowl.
What to Do When Your Dog Has an Upset Stomach
Now that we know the possible causes, let’s talk solutions! There are several ways to help your dog feel better at home, but knowing when to step in (or when to call the vet) is key.
1. Start with a Fasting Period
One of the simplest and most effective ways to help a dog’s stomach settle is by giving their digestive system a break. A short fast (12-24 hours for adult dogs) allows their gut to recover. Puppies, seniors, or small breeds may need a shorter fasting period—check with your vet first.
2. Offer Small Sips of Water
Hydration is crucial, especially if your dog has been vomiting or has diarrhea. Give them small amounts of water frequently rather than letting them gulp down a whole bowl at once, which could make things worse.
3. Try a Bland Diet
Once your dog’s stomach has had a chance to settle, introducing a gentle diet can help them recover. Here’s a go-to recipe:
- Boiled white rice – Easy on the stomach and helps firm up stools.
- Boiled chicken (skinless, boneless) – Lean protein that’s easy to digest.
- Plain pumpkin (not pie filling!) – Great for digestion and firming up loose stools.
Start with small portions and gradually increase as their stomach stabilizes.
4. Use Probiotics
Gut-friendly bacteria can work wonders in helping a dog’s digestive system bounce back. Probiotics come in powder, chew, or capsule form—ask your vet which one is best for your pup.
5. Offer Bone Broth for Extra Nourishment
One of my go-to remedies for a dog with an upset stomach is homemade bone broth. It’s easy on digestion, packed with nutrients, and helps keep them hydrated. Plus, most dogs love it!
Here’s a simple way to make it:
- Take raw or cooked bones (chicken, beef, or turkey work well) and place them in a pot.
- Add water and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (helps extract nutrients).
- Simmer on low heat for 12-24 hours.
- Strain out the bones and let the broth cool before serving.
Offer small amounts at a time to see how your pup reacts. Just be sure there’s no onions, garlic, or added seasonings—those can be toxic to dogs.
6. Herbal Remedies for Soothing the Stomach
Over the years, I’ve seen some natural remedies work wonders for mild digestive issues. Here are a few safe options:
- Ginger – Known for its anti-nausea properties. A tiny amount of fresh, grated ginger in food can help.
- Slippery Elm – A natural gut soother that comes in powder form. I’ve used it for dogs with recurring tummy troubles.
- Chamomile or Peppermint Tea – Helps relax the digestive tract. Offer a cooled, diluted version in small amounts.
These remedies can be helpful, but always start with small doses and check with your vet if your dog is on medications.
When to Call the Vet
While mild stomach upsets can often be handled at home, there are times when a vet visit is absolutely necessary. Don’t wait if you notice:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea (lasting more than 24 hours)
- Blood in vomit or stool (bright red or dark, tarry stools)
- Severe lethargy (if your dog refuses to get up or seems unusually weak)
- Signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, loss of skin elasticity)
- Bloated abdomen (could indicate bloat, a life-threatening condition)
- Unusual behaviors (whining, excessive drooling, pacing, or aggression due to pain)
From my experience in veterinary clinics, I’ve seen how quickly a mild case can turn into an emergency. If something feels off, trust your gut and call the vet.
How to Prevent Future Stomach Issues
Prevention is key when it comes to digestive health. While you can’t stop every upset stomach, these tips will help reduce the chances:
1. Feed a Consistent, High-Quality Diet
Dogs thrive on consistency. If you’re switching foods, transition gradually over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset. Stick to high-quality ingredients with no unnecessary fillers.
2. Avoid Table Scraps and Toxic Foods
It’s tempting to share your snacks, but many human foods don’t sit well with dogs. Chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, and fatty foods are all common culprits for stomach distress.
3. Keep Trash and Foreign Objects Out of Reach
Dogs are sneaky scavengers! I’ve had countless clients whose dogs got into the trash and ended up with vomiting and diarrhea. A secured trash can saves you a trip to the vet.
4. Slow Down Fast Eaters
If your pup inhales food like a vacuum, try a slow feeder bowl. Eating too quickly can cause bloating and indigestion.
5. Regular Deworming and Vet Check-Ups
Parasites are a common cause of stomach issues, and they can be prevented with regular vet care. Make sure your pup stays up to date on deworming and check-ups.
Case Studies & Real-Life Examples
Let’s talk about real dogs and real cases I’ve seen in my experience. Nothing teaches better than actual stories! Here are a few examples of dogs I’ve helped recover from stomach issues.
Case 1: Bella, the Sneaky Snacker
Bella, a mischievous Golden Retriever, had a habit of raiding the trash can. One day, she got into leftover takeout, and by the next morning, she had vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Her owner panicked and rushed her to the vet.
What worked:
- A 12-hour fast to rest her stomach
- Small sips of water to prevent dehydration
- A gradual reintroduction of a bland diet (boiled rice and chicken)
- After 48 hours, she was back to her usual tail-wagging self!
Case 2: Max and the Sudden Food Switch
Max’s owner switched him from kibble to raw food overnight, thinking it was a healthier option. Unfortunately, Max’s digestive system wasn’t ready for such a drastic change, and he ended up with explosive diarrhea.
What worked:
- Switching back to his original diet for a few days
- Introducing raw food gradually over 10 days instead of all at once
- Adding probiotics to help his gut adjust
Lesson learned: Always transition diets slowly!
Case 3: Daisy, the Anxious Pup
Daisy, a rescue dog, would get an upset stomach every time there was a thunderstorm. Her owner noticed a pattern—stress-induced digestive issues.
What worked:
- Using a calming supplement before storms
- Providing a safe space with her favorite blanket
- Adding small amounts of chamomile tea to her water bowl
After a few months, her stomach issues became much less frequent!
Key Takeaways: What You Need to Remember
Here’s a quick summary of everything we covered:
- Know the signs – Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and lethargy are red flags.
- Identify the cause – Food, stress, infections, or sudden diet changes can trigger stomach issues.
- Use home remedies – Bland diets, probiotics, bone broth, and fasting can help mild cases.
- Prevent future problems – Feed a consistent diet, avoid table scraps, and slow down fast eaters.
- Know when to call the vet – Persistent symptoms, dehydration, or blood in vomit/stool require medical attention.
FAQs
How long does it take for a dog’s stomach to settle?
Most mild cases resolve within 24-48 hours. If symptoms persist, consult your vet.
Can I give my dog over-the-counter meds for an upset stomach?
Never give human medications like ibuprofen or aspirin! Some vets recommend small amounts of Pepto-Bismol, but always check with your vet first.
What if my dog won’t drink water?
Try offering ice cubes, bone broth, or diluted Pedialyte to encourage hydration.
Is pumpkin good for a dog’s upset stomach?
Yes! Plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is great for both diarrhea and constipation. A teaspoon or two works wonders.
Bonus: Additional Resources or DIY Tips
Want to learn more? Here are some additional resources:
- American Kennel Club: Digestive Issues in Dogs
- VCA Animal Hospitals: When to Worry About Vomiting
- PetMD: Dog Digestive Health
Appendix: References, Disclaimer & Call to Action
References:
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. If your dog has ongoing digestive issues, consult a vet.
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