Best Home Remedies for a Dog’s Upset Stomach That Actually Work
If you’re here because you’re Googling best home remedies for a dog’s upset stomach, I totally get it—I’ve been there too. As a Veterinary Assistant with a special interest in pet nutrition, I’ve had my fair share of worried pet parents asking, “Camellia, what can I give my dog to settle their stomach without rushing to the vet every single time?” That question sparked more conversations than I can count, both in clinic and over coffee with fellow dog lovers. The good news? There are definitely some gentle, safe, and effective remedies you can try at home when your pup’s tummy is a bit out of whack.
Common Causes of Upset Stomachs in Dogs
Before we jump into remedies, it’s important to understand the why. Knowing what triggered your dog’s symptoms can help you pick the right remedy—and more importantly, prevent it from happening again.
1. Dietary Indiscretion (aka: the trash dive)
Honestly, this is the #1 cause I see in the clinic. Dogs are curious by nature, and unfortunately, that nose often leads them to yesterday’s leftovers or something questionable in the yard. I once had a pup come in after eating half a pepperoni pizza and… let’s just say, it wasn’t pretty. Greasy, spicy, or rich foods are stomach bombs waiting to go off.
2. Sudden Food Changes
Switching kibble brands cold turkey? That could lead to disaster. I always recommend a gradual transition over 7–10 days. Even if you’re switching to a healthier or more premium diet, your dog’s gut needs time to adjust.
3. Stress and Anxiety
Yup, dogs can get stress tummy too. Changes in environment—like moving, traveling, or even a new pet in the house—can cause GI upset. I had a sweet old Lab named Daisy who’d get soft stool every time her family went on vacation without her. Emotional creatures, aren’t they?
4. Parasites or Infections
Of course, not all upset stomachs are caused by food. Parasites like giardia, bacterial overgrowth, or even mild viral infections can be culprits. If symptoms last longer than 24–48 hours or include vomiting and lethargy, call your vet. Don’t play guessing games.
Signs Your Dog Has an Upset Stomach
So how can you tell your pup’s tummy isn’t quite right? Here’s a quick checklist of signs I’ve seen over and over again in practice:
- Lack of appetite – Skipping meals is often the first red flag.
- Vomiting or retching – Once is okay; more than twice? Time to worry.
- Diarrhea or loose stools – Keep an eye on consistency and frequency.
- Lethargy – If your dog is unusually sleepy or slow-moving.
- Gurgling sounds from the tummy – That bubbling noise is often gas or discomfort.
- Lip licking or excessive swallowing – Often signs of nausea.
Pro tip from the clinic: always take a pic of the poop. Gross? Maybe. Helpful? Incredibly. It helps your vet make quicker, more accurate decisions if things escalate.
Best Home Remedies for a Dog’s Upset Stomach
Okay, now let’s dive into the good stuff. Here are my go-to home remedies that I’ve personally used and recommended to countless pet parents over the years. These aren’t miracle cures, but when your dog’s symptoms are mild and you catch them early, they can make a world of difference.
1. Fasting for 12–24 Hours
This is usually step one. Giving your dog’s digestive system a short break can help clear out whatever’s causing the issue. For adult dogs, 12–24 hours of no food (but plenty of fresh water!) can help settle things down. I don’t recommend fasting for puppies or seniors without veterinary guidance though—they’re more fragile.
2. Bland Diet
The classic “bland diet” is a staple in my veterinary toolkit. I’ve prepared this combo more times than I can count, both for my clients and my own dogs:
- Boiled chicken breast (no skin or seasoning)
- Plain white rice
Start with small portions—like a couple tablespoons every 3–4 hours. If your dog keeps it down, you can slowly increase the amount and frequency over the next couple of days. Once your dog is doing better, transition gradually back to their regular food.
3. Canned Pumpkin (Pure, Not Pie Filling!)
This is one of my absolute favorite tricks. A spoonful of plain canned pumpkin works wonders for both diarrhea and constipation. It’s rich in fiber and gentle on the gut. Use about 1 teaspoon per 10 lbs of body weight. Most dogs actually love the taste too—it’s like doggy dessert.
4. Bone Broth
Hydration is crucial, especially if your pup’s been vomiting or has diarrhea. Homemade or store-bought low-sodium bone broth can help entice them to drink while giving their gut some soothing nutrients. I usually keep a batch frozen in ice cube trays for emergencies.
5. Probiotics for Dogs
A high-quality canine probiotic can help restore balance in the gut, especially after dietary indiscretion or antibiotics. I’ve seen great results with probiotics like FortiFlora or Proviable. Ask your vet for a recommendation based on your dog’s age and size.
6. Slippery Elm Powder
This lesser-known remedy is an herbal supplement that forms a soothing film over the digestive tract. I’ve had a few holistic-minded clients swear by it. Always use pet-safe formulations and talk to your vet before introducing new herbs.
Of course, every dog is different. What works for one might not work for another, which is why I always remind people: watch your dog closely, and don’t hesitate to call your vet if anything feels off.
How to Know When It’s Time to Call the Vet
Okay, I’ve gotta be real with you—while I’m all for the best home remedies for a dog’s upset stomach, there’s a fine line between something you can manage at home and something that really needs professional care. Over the years, I’ve seen some pretty scary cases that started off as “just a little stomach bug.” Trust your gut and trust your dog—they’ll usually tell you when it’s more serious.
Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore:
- Persistent vomiting – More than two or three times in 24 hours? Get that pup checked.
- Bloody stool or vomit – A little reddish tint might be okay (from irritation), but bright red or black stool? No bueno.
- Severe lethargy – If they’re too weak to get up or respond, that’s a big concern.
- Refusing food and water for more than 24 hours
- Signs of pain – Whining, pacing, panting, hunching up… dogs in pain are usually pretty obvious once you know what to look for.
I had a case once—little Beagle named Milo—where the owners thought it was a minor tummy issue. Turned out he had a partial blockage from a chewed-up sock. Don’t wait if something feels off.
Natural Supplements That Can Help
Sometimes, food alone isn’t quite enough. There are some natural, vet-approved supplements that can help support digestion, soothe inflammation, or give a little boost to the gut. I’ve personally used and recommended these in clinic and with my own dogs:
1. Digestive Enzymes
If your pup has recurring stomach issues, they might not be breaking down their food properly. Digestive enzyme powders (specifically formulated for dogs) can help ease that load. I’ve seen them work wonders in older dogs or those with sensitive bellies.
2. Ginger
Just like it helps humans, a bit of ginger can help calm a dog’s queasy stomach. I usually recommend grated fresh ginger (a pinch mixed with food) or a tiny amount of ginger tea. Don’t overdo it though—it’s strong stuff!
3. Chamomile Tea
This is one of my favorite gentle options for nervous or gassy dogs. Let it cool, then offer a few spoonfuls. It’s soothing and helps relax the GI tract. One of my regular clients swears it’s the only thing that helps her nervous rescue pup during storms.
4. Licorice Root (DGL)
This one’s a bit niche but super effective. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) helps coat and soothe the stomach lining. I’ve seen holistic vets use it for dogs with suspected ulcers or chronic gastritis. Always use a pet-safe version and check dosage with your vet.
Feeding After Recovery: Transitioning Back to Regular Food
So your dog’s looking better—yay! But don’t rush the process. Going straight back to regular food too quickly can trigger a relapse. I’ve had more than one dog parent say, “He was doing fine until I gave him a treat last night.” Yep… that’ll do it.
Step-by-Step Transition Plan:
- Stick to the bland diet for 1–2 days after symptoms stop.
- Gradually mix in the regular food—start with 25% regular, 75% bland.
- Increase regular food every day by 25%, until you’re back to 100% normal diet.
- Avoid treats, table scraps, or rich chews during recovery!
Remember, your dog’s digestive system just went through a little storm—give it time to settle fully. Think of it like easing back into spicy food after a stomach bug. No one wants tacos on Day 1.
Keeping Your Dog’s Tummy Happy Long-Term
Prevention really is key. Once your dog’s stomach settles down, it’s a good time to reflect on what might’ve caused the issue in the first place—and how you can avoid a repeat.
Tips for Long-Term Digestive Health:
- Feed a consistent, high-quality diet – No need for constant food changes unless recommended by a vet.
- Avoid human food – No matter how convincing those puppy eyes are.
- Keep trash, chemicals, and inedible objects out of reach – You’d be surprised how many ER visits start with a trash can.
- Use probiotics regularly – Especially during stress or travel.
- Slow feeder bowls – These help prevent gulping and gas buildup.
- Monitor stool quality – Yep, you’re gonna become a poop detective. Join the club!
And don’t forget hydration! A hydrated pup is a healthier pup. I always encourage fresh, filtered water and sometimes add a splash of broth to entice picky drinkers—especially after an illness.
In my experience, once pet parents start being proactive with their dog’s digestion, they see a big shift—not just in tummy troubles, but in energy, mood, and overall wellness. It’s all connected.
Creating a Home Tummy Care Kit for Your Dog
After helping so many dog parents deal with digestive upsets over the years, I started recommending they keep a little “stomach support kit” at home. Honestly, it’s been a game-changer. I’ve even got one tucked under my kitchen sink—just in case one of my dogs gets into something they shouldn’t (again… looking at you, Tucker).
What to Include in Your Dog’s Tummy Kit:
- Plain canned pumpkin – 100% pure, not the pie mix
- Low-sodium bone broth – Homemade or a pet-safe store brand
- White rice and chicken – Keep some frozen for emergencies
- Dog-safe probiotics – Ask your vet for a trusted brand
- Ginger or chamomile tea – Already steeped and stored in the fridge
- Slippery elm powder or DGL tablets
- Syringe or dropper – Useful for giving fluids or tea if your dog won’t drink
- Digital thermometer – Normal temp for dogs is between 101°F–102.5°F
This little stash has saved me more vet visits than I can count. And when you’re panicking at 2 a.m. with a sick pup, having the basics on hand is a huge comfort.
Real Talk: What NOT to Give Your Dog for an Upset Stomach
Let me be super clear: not everything safe for humans is okay for dogs. I’ve seen way too many well-meaning owners make things worse with home treatments that were actually harmful. So before we wrap up, let’s run through a few big “no-no’s.”
1. Over-the-Counter Human Medications
Please, please don’t give your dog Pepto-Bismol, Imodium, or Tums unless your vet explicitly says it’s safe. These meds can interact badly with other medications or cause more harm than good. I once saw a pup with a severe reaction to bismuth toxicity from Pepto. Scary stuff.
2. Dairy Products
I know some folks say yogurt is good for probiotics, and while that’s technically true, most dogs are lactose intolerant. It can actually make diarrhea worse. If you’re set on the idea, use a dairy-free pet probiotic instead.
3. Fatty or Spicy Foods
This should be obvious, but you’d be surprised. Leftover steak, pizza crusts, or anything seasoned? Bad idea. Fatty foods can trigger pancreatitis, which is painful and potentially life-threatening.
4. Grapes, Raisins, and Onions
Some pet parents still aren’t aware these foods are toxic to dogs. If your dog’s been vomiting and you suspect they got into anything even slightly suspicious, call your vet or the pet poison hotline immediately.
When in doubt, keep it simple, bland, and vet-approved. Your dog’s tummy will thank you later.
When Upset Stomachs Become Chronic: What to Watch For
Every now and then, I’ll meet a dog who seems to always have tummy trouble. If that’s your situation, it might be time to dig deeper. Chronic GI issues usually mean there’s something going on below the surface—and while home remedies can help, they won’t fix a bigger issue.
Conditions That Can Cause Frequent Upset Stomachs:
- Food allergies or sensitivities – Common triggers include chicken, beef, or grains
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)
- Parasites or chronic infections
- Liver or kidney issues
If your pup has diarrhea more than once a month, frequently vomits bile in the morning, or just never seems quite right after eating, it’s time to run some tests. I’ve had dogs go from constant GI issues to totally normal after changing their protein source or adding digestive enzymes.
Your vet may recommend a prescription diet, a full blood workup, or even imaging like an ultrasound. It might seem like a hassle, but trust me—it can dramatically improve your dog’s quality of life. I’ve seen it happen so many times, and it’s always worth the effort.
Wrapping It All Up: Helping Your Dog Feel Their Best
At the end of the day, we just want our pups to feel good, right? Upset stomachs can be scary, messy, and a little overwhelming, but with a solid understanding of what’s going on—and a few trusted remedies in your toolbox—you’ll feel way more confident the next time something happens.
I always remind dog parents that healing takes time. If you can stay calm, watch closely, and use the tips we’ve covered, most mild stomach issues can be managed at home. And when in doubt? Call your vet. You’re never wrong to double-check.
Thanks for sticking with me through this article. As someone who lives and breathes this stuff every day in the clinic, I truly hope it helps you and your pup get through those not-so-fun tummy moments a little easier.
References
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and is based on my experience as a Veterinary Assistant with a nutrition focus. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new treatment or supplement, especially if your dog has underlying health conditions or persistent symptoms.
