An upset stomach in dogs is a common issue that can cause discomfort, vomiting, diarrhea, and other signs of digestive distress. Whether your dog has eaten something they shouldn’t, is stressed, or is dealing with a mild illness, there are ways to help soothe their stomach and get them back to feeling better. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to help an upset stomach in dogs.

1. Recognize the Signs of an Upset Stomach in Dogs

Before addressing an upset stomach, it’s important to recognize the symptoms so you can take appropriate action. Common signs of digestive distress in dogs include:

• Vomiting: Your dog may vomit or retch frequently.
• Diarrhea: Loose, watery stools or frequent bowel movements can indicate an upset stomach.
• Loss of appetite: A dog with an upset stomach may refuse food or water.
• Lethargy: Dogs may become more tired or less active when they feel unwell.
• Excessive drooling: Dogs with stomach issues may drool more than usual.
• Whining or groaning: Dogs may vocalize discomfort due to stomach pain.
• Hunched posture or tensing up: Dogs may adopt a hunched posture if they’re feeling abdominal discomfort.

If your dog is showing these symptoms, it’s important to monitor them closely and decide whether home care is enough or if a visit to the vet is necessary.

2. Withhold Food for 12-24 Hours

One of the first things to do if your dog has an upset stomach is to give their digestive system a break. Withholding food for 12-24 hours can allow their stomach to settle and prevent further irritation.

• Water is essential: Even if you withhold food, it’s important to keep your dog hydrated. Offer them small amounts of water frequently. Dehydration can make the situation worse, especially if your dog is vomiting or has diarrhea.
• Gradual reintroduction of food: After the fasting period, begin offering small amounts of bland food. If your dog doesn’t vomit or show signs of discomfort after the first serving, you can slowly increase the portion size over the next 24-48 hours.

3. Offer a Bland Diet

After the fasting period, introduce a bland diet to soothe your dog’s stomach. A bland diet is easy to digest and can help calm an upset stomach while providing essential nutrients.

Common Bland Foods for Dogs:

• Boiled chicken: Skinless, boneless chicken breast is gentle on the stomach and easy to digest.
• Boiled white rice: Rice is a low-fiber, easily digestible food that helps bind stool and reduce diarrhea.
• Boiled ground turkey: Like chicken, ground turkey is a lean meat that’s gentle on the digestive system.
• Pumpkin: Plain canned pumpkin (not the spiced pie filling) is a great source of fiber that can help with both diarrhea and constipation.
• Boiled potatoes: Avoid adding butter or seasoning. Plain boiled potatoes can be soothing for a dog’s upset stomach.
• Plain scrambled eggs: Eggs are a great source of protein and are easy to digest.

Start by offering small amounts of the bland food, and gradually increase the portion as your dog’s symptoms improve.

4. Try Probiotics for Digestive Health

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore balance to your dog’s digestive system. They’re especially helpful after gastrointestinal upset, as they support healthy gut flora and can aid in digestion.

How to Use Probiotics for Dogs:

• Probiotic supplements: Many dog-specific probiotics are available as powders, capsules, or treats.
• Plain yogurt: If your dog tolerates dairy, offering a small amount of plain, unsweetened yogurt can help introduce beneficial bacteria. Be sure to avoid yogurt with added sugar or artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol, which is toxic to dogs).

Before giving your dog probiotics, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian to ensure they are suitable for your pet’s condition.

5. Hydration is Key

Dehydration can worsen an upset stomach, especially if your dog is vomiting or has diarrhea. Make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times, but try offering smaller amounts more frequently. If your dog is not drinking water, you can try:

• Ice cubes: Some dogs may prefer to lick ice cubes instead of drinking from a bowl.
• Broth: Offering low-sodium chicken or beef broth (without any added seasonings or onions) can encourage hydration. Make sure it’s safe and does not contain harmful ingredients.
• Water additives: Some water additives are designed to encourage dogs to drink more. These may have flavors like chicken or beef, making them more appealing to your dog.

If your dog is severely dehydrated or unable to keep water down, consult a veterinarian.

6. Monitor Your Dog for Serious Symptoms

In most cases, mild cases of upset stomachs can be managed at home with food and hydration adjustments. However, there are certain situations where a visit to the vet is necessary:

• Vomiting for more than 24 hours
• Severe diarrhea (especially if there is blood)
• Lethargy or signs of dehydration
• Bloody or black stools
• Severe abdominal pain or bloating
• Rapid or shallow breathing
• If your dog ingests something toxic

In these cases, take your dog to the vet immediately for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment.

7. Prevent Future Upset Stomachs

While some upset stomachs are unavoidable, there are several measures you can take to reduce the chances of your dog experiencing digestive issues in the future:

• Monitor your dog’s diet: Avoid giving your dog table scraps, human food, or anything they shouldn’t eat (such as chocolate, grapes, or xylitol). Stick to a balanced dog food appropriate for their age, breed, and size.
• Control eating habits: If your dog tends to eat too quickly, consider using a slow feeder bowl or puzzle feeder to encourage slower eating.
• Regular feeding schedule: Feed your dog at regular intervals to help maintain digestive health.
• Avoid sudden diet changes: Gradually transition your dog to new foods over the course of several days to avoid upsetting their stomach.
• Limit access to trash and unsafe food: Keep garbage cans secure and prevent your dog from eating things that may be harmful.

8. Consult Your Veterinarian

If your dog’s upset stomach persists or becomes a recurring issue, consult your veterinarian. Chronic digestive problems could indicate an underlying condition, such as:

• Food allergies or sensitivities
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Parasites (e.g., worms)
• Pancreatitis
• Gastritis or ulcers
• Liver or kidney disease

A thorough vet examination, including blood work or imaging, may be required to diagnose any underlying conditions.

Conclusion: Helping Your Dog Feel Better

An upset stomach in dogs is usually a temporary issue, but with the right care, you can help your dog feel better quickly. Withholding food, offering a bland diet, ensuring hydration, and using probiotics are all effective ways to manage mild stomach upset. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian to rule out any serious health concerns. By taking action quickly, you can help your dog recover and prevent further discomfort