If your dog is experiencing an upset stomach, you’re probably wondering what to feed them to help soothe their digestive system and get them feeling better. Whether it’s due to dietary indiscretion, stress, or illness, an upset stomach in dogs can be distressing for both the pet and the owner. In this article, we’ll cover the best foods and home remedies that can help your dog recover, along with tips on when to seek professional help.
Understanding Your Dog’s Upset Stomach
Before diving into what to feed your dog with an upset stomach, it’s important to understand the symptoms. Common signs of stomach issues in dogs include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Gas or bloating
While these symptoms often resolve on their own, knowing what to feed a dog with an upset stomach can expedite their recovery and prevent further discomfort. Always keep in mind that if symptoms persist for more than 24 hours or are accompanied by severe symptoms like blood in vomit or stool, it’s important to contact your vet immediately.
Best Foods for a Dog with an Upset Stomach
When your dog’s stomach is upset, it’s crucial to offer easily digestible foods that won’t put more strain on their digestive system. Here are some of the best options:
1. Boiled Chicken and Rice
A classic remedy for dogs with upset stomachs, boiled chicken and rice is gentle on their digestive system. This bland meal is easy to digest and provides the necessary nutrients without irritating the stomach.
How to prepare:
- Boil skinless, boneless chicken breast until fully cooked.
- Boil white rice separately (avoid brown rice as it’s harder to digest).
- Shred the chicken and mix with the rice in a 1:1 ratio.
2. Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin is an excellent natural remedy for dogs with digestive issues. It’s rich in fiber, which helps firm up loose stools and regulate bowel movements. Make sure to use plain canned pumpkin (not the spiced variety used for pies).
How to serve:
- Offer 1-2 teaspoons for small dogs and up to a tablespoon for larger dogs.
- Mix it with the chicken and rice for added fiber.
3. Boiled Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are another great food choice for a dog with an upset stomach. They are high in fiber and easy to digest, helping soothe the stomach lining and relieve diarrhea.
How to prepare:
- Peel and boil the sweet potatoes until soft.
- Mash them and mix with chicken or rice to make it more palatable.
4. Plain, Low-Fat Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a good source of protein and can be gentle on your dog’s stomach. Opt for plain, low-fat cottage cheese and offer it in small amounts.
How to serve:
- Add a spoonful of cottage cheese to your dog’s meal.
- Avoid offering it if your dog is lactose intolerant.
5. Bone Broth
Bone broth is a soothing liquid that can help keep your dog hydrated while also providing nutrients. It’s easy on the stomach and can promote healing of the digestive tract.
How to serve:
- You can feed your dog bone broth as a liquid or pour it over their food.
- Make sure the broth is free from onions, garlic, or other harmful seasonings.
What to Avoid Feeding Your Dog with an Upset Stomach
Some foods can actually make your dog’s stomach worse, so it’s important to avoid them while they’re recovering. Common foods to avoid include:
- Fatty foods: High-fat foods like bacon or fatty cuts of meat can be hard for dogs to digest and may worsen diarrhea or vomiting.
- Dairy products: While some dogs can tolerate dairy, others may have lactose intolerance, which could further upset their stomach.
- Spicy foods: Any food with a lot of seasoning, particularly spicy foods, can irritate your dog’s stomach.
- Chocolate and caffeine: Both are toxic to dogs and should be avoided entirely.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
While mild stomach upset often resolves on its own, there are situations where it’s important to contact a veterinarian. You should seek professional help if:
- Vomiting or diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours.
- Your dog is lethargic, dehydrated, or refuses to eat or drink.
- There’s blood in the vomit or stool.
- Your dog is showing signs of severe discomfort or pain.
Additional Tips for Helping Your Dog with an Upset Stomach
- Keep them hydrated: If your dog is vomiting or has diarrhea, they could become dehydrated quickly. Offer fresh water in small amounts frequently. You can also use electrolyte solutions designed for pets.
- Introduce food slowly: Gradually reintroduce their regular food after they’ve tolerated the bland diet for a day or two. Start with small portions and increase the quantity as their stomach settles.
- Limit treats: During the recovery phase, it’s best to avoid giving your dog any treats, as this can irritate their stomach further.
Conclusion
Knowing what to feed a dog with an upset stomach can make all the difference in their recovery. Stick to bland, easily digestible foods like boiled chicken, rice, and pumpkin, and avoid foods that could make their condition worse. While most cases of upset stomach are mild and resolve on their own, always keep a close eye on your dog’s condition. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian for advice.
By following these tips, you can help your dog feel better faster and get them back to their happy, healthy self.
