What to Give a Dog for an Upset Stomach

Dogs are famous for eating before thinking, but that habit can land them in trouble - stomach trouble. Read on for the research-backed foods that are best for an upset stomach, and for ways you can support your pup's digestive health in the long term.

Key Takeaways

Upset stomach is one of the most common issues faced by dogs (and their owners).
Many dogs' upset stomachs are mild and resolve quickly.
However, an upset stomach can be a sign of something serious, so if you're worried, make sure to consult with your vet.
Bland food like plain chicken, boiled white rice, baby food, and bone broth are all commonly fed to dogs with an upset stomach.
Supplements like colostrum, glutathione, and CBD may help with occasional gastric distress and can support healthy digestion.

Understanding Your Dog's Upset Stomach

Dogs, just like us humans, can sometimes get an upset stomach. And like us humans, your dog's upset stomach could be caused by all manner of things.

In fact, upset stomach is one of the most common issues reported by pet parents.¹

Research also suggests that certain dog breeds are more prone to upset stomach.² According to one study, for example, German Shepherds and Yorkshire Terriers are more likely to get an upset stomach than Jack Russel Terriers or Chihuahuas.³

That might be due to genetics. It might also be due to behavior, like diet or exercise. The researchers noted that many things can contribute to an upset stomach.

We'll discuss some common causes that might be behind your dog's upset stomach. Then we'll cover some things you can do for your dog, and how you can support healthy digestion in general.

But first, we need to go through some key signs that your dog actually has an upset stomach.

Signs Your Dog Has an Upset Stomach

As you no doubt know, our dogs can't talk. But as any pet owner will confirm, dogs can still communicate.

One of the most common signs of an upset stomach is loose stools. That should be familiar to anyone who's suffered from an upset stomach themselves. According to the medical director of the University of Illinois' Medical District Veterinary Clinic, if your dog only has loose stools and is still interested in food, chances are they only have mild stomach upset.⁴

Similarly, a dog with an upset stomach might need to use the bathroom more than usual. They may also struggle with going to the bathroom.

Another potentially familiar sign of an upset stomach is gas. In blunt terms, your dog might burp and/or pass gas more often than usual. You might also hear their stomach gurgling or rumbling more than usual.

Your dog's symptoms may also include drooling, chattering teeth, excessive licking, restlessness, weight changes, and shivering.

If a dog's stomach is uncomfortable, they may protest when you try to pick them up. Another behavior sometimes caused by an upset stomach is a specific stretch, in which a dog keeps their back legs straight and front legs down and out.⁵

You might be wondering about another common symptom: vomiting. Vomiting is one of the most common symptoms seen in dogs.⁶

While a single instance of vomiting isn't necessarily a reason to worry, frequent vomiting - especially when paired with a disinterest in food - can be a sign of serious stomach upset.⁷

When to Use Home Remedies

In many cases, an upset stomach is mild and can resolve in a few days.⁸

However, it's important not to dismiss your dog's upset stomach. If they show signs of serious symptoms like frequent vomiting, make sure to take them to the vet. The veterinary team will be able to help you determine the underlying cause of your dog's upset stomach and decide what the best course of action is.

two dogs next to food bowl food allergies sick dog stomach pain dog eats regular dog food human food canned pumpkin process food GI tract

Some Common Causes of Digestive Issues

All kinds of things can cause an upset stomach. It's important to try and figure out what caused your dog's GI upset because that can help you figure out how to help them.

In many cases, the potential causes of an upset stomach in dogs are similar to those for humans.

For example, dogs who are stressed can get an upset stomach.⁹ If that's the case for your dog, a calming dog treat with CBD could help promote relaxation.

Various underlying conditions can also cause an upset stomach.¹⁰

However, one of the most common causes of an upset stomach in dogs is food.¹¹ Not just any food, though. As we all know, many dogs will eat just about anything - including things they really shouldn't be eating.

Unfortunately, your dog's upset stomach may have been caused by them eating contaminated food.

If you're still unsure what exactly is behind your dog's discomfort, seek veterinary attention. The vet should be able to help you get to the bottom of the issue (no pun intended).

What to Give a Dog For an Upset Stomach

So, you've determined your dog does, in fact, have an upset stomach. And you've decided it's not serious enough to warrant veterinary supervision.

Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can give your pup. Like with humans, the focus is generally on bland, easily digestible foods that will give your dog the nutrients they need while being mindful of their upset stomach.

Bland Diet

If you've ever had an upset tummy, you've likely been put on a bland diet. It's one of the most common ways to help soothe an unruly digestive system.¹²

The same is true in dogs. What exactly a "bland diet" entails varies. Generally, it means a diet that's lower in fat, higher in healthy carbs and dietary fiber, and overall easy to digest.¹³

For example, one study gave dogs with an upset stomach a high-fiber diet. Every single one of these dogs had a fecal score below five (meaning not too loose), compared to only 55% of dogs fed a standard diet. ¹⁴

In another similar study, the high-fiber diet helped improve the signs of upset stomach in every dog included. Over two-thirds of the dogs showed a complete resolution of symptoms of upset stomach!¹⁵

Now, you might not want to switch diets immediately. Doing this can actually contribute to an upset stomach. Instead, Cornell's College of Veterinary Medicine recommends switching gradually, over the course of four days.¹⁶

Unfortunately, a bland diet does mean no treats. Or, at the very least, being conservative with your treats. Resist those puppy dog eyes and remember that you are doing this to help your pup.

Bonus: Glycine for Dogs: Benefits, Uses, & More

dog looking at chicken body weight dog's recovery hind legs intestinal parasites oral medications bacterial infections regular food medical history bowel movements life threatening

Boiled Chicken and Rice

One of the most commonly used bland meals is plain boiled chicken and rice. According to Tufts, an example meal might be two cups of cooked white rice with one cup of chopped baked or boiled chicken or turkey.¹⁷

Avoid using any seasonings, butter, or oil. And make sure to remove any skin or bones.

This meal is a classic, but it's important to note that it's not nutritionally complete. In other words, it is missing some of the key nutrients, vitamins, and minerals your dog needs to thrive. It's a short-term support, not a long-term solution.

Baby Food

Another common bland meal is baby food. That might sound strange, but it makes sense: baby food is specially formulated for sensitive stomachs.

If you want to try this, opt for a meat baby food and make sure to strain it before serving. You can serve it with boiled white rice.¹⁸

Bone Broth

Solid food can sometimes be a struggle for dogs with an upset stomach. If you think your dog would appreciate something more liquid, one option is bone broth.

Bone broth is packed with nutrients, minerals, and essential amino acids. It's also hydrating, which is important because dogs with an upset stomach can sometimes become dehydrated.¹⁹

Special Dog Food

Various manufacturers make specialized dog food for sensitive or upset stomachs.²⁰

How to Support Your Dog's Digestive System

Dealing with an upset stomach is one thing. Supporting healthy digestion is another thing entirely.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to help support your dog's digestive tract.

Colostrum

Colostrum is a great supplement for supporting your dog's digestive tract. Ideally, you want to look for bovine colostrum, meaning colostrum from cows.

In one study, puppies given bovine colostrum demonstrated a greater improvement in fecal quality than other puppies. Research has also confirmed that colostrum can help support healthy digestion in other animals, including humans, piglets, and mice.²¹

Our Gut Health supplement blends grass-fed bovine colostrum with whole plant extract and organic blueberry powder to help support proper digestion and bowel health.

CBD

Speaking of hemp extract, CBD can also support bowel health. We already mentioned how CBD can promote relaxation, which could help dogs whose upset stomach is due to stress.

Additionally, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which is linked with the digestive system. Research suggests that problems with the endocannabinoid system can manifest as an upset stomach.²²

Your dog will probably love a Beef & Pumpkin or Duck & Apple calming chew. Alternatively, give them a dose of high-quality CBD oil, either straight from the dropper or mixed into their food.

Mushrooms

Mushroom products like our Immunity Mushroom Supplement and Immune Mushroom Tincture may also promote digestive health and support the gut microbiome. They also contain antioxidants from elderberry extract, like quercetin and vitamin C.

Glutathione

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant with many benefits, and it could help your dog maintain a healthy intestinal tract. In one human study, for example, glutathione supplements were found to increase the amount of proper gut flora.²³

Research with dogs has found that antioxidants like glutathione can protect dogs from damage caused by free radicals, which can affect the digestive system.²⁴

Our first-of-its-kind Liposomal Glutathione combines a glutathione support complex with L-Lysine and milk thistle extract, two other compounds that have been shown to help support digestive tract health.²⁵

dog eating drink water new food perform tests stomach issues fresh water continue feeding things worse low energy pepto bismol immediate attention initially thought intensive care

Conclusion

No one likes an upset stomach. Unfortunately for our furry friends, their tendency to eat first and ask questions later often lands them in a world of tummy discomfort.

If that's the case for your dog, consider switching to a bland, easily digestible diet. Avoid treats and table scraps for the time being, no matter how much your pup begs.

Remember, if you think things are serious or see more serious symptoms, always seek veterinary guidance.

In the long-term, there are plenty of supplements that have been shown to support a healthy digestive tract. Colostrum, glutathione, and CBD are just a few examples.

Keep Reading: What Grains Do Dogs Need for Heart Health?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Give My Dog Anything to Settle His Stomach?

If your dog has a mild upset stomach, consider gradually switching them to a bland diet. Plain chicken and rice, bone broth, and baby food are three common options.

If you're not sure how serious your dog's stomach upset is, consult a vet. They'll be able to support you and your pup.

What Is a Natural Anti-Nausea for Dogs?

Vomiting once isn't necessarily something to be overly worried about, but frequent vomiting can be a sign of something serious. If your dog is vomiting, go to a vet for assistance.

In general, a bland diet is a great way to avoid triggering an upset stomach. For the long-term, consider supplemental probiotics like those in bovine colostrum to help support your pup's digestive tract.²⁶

How Do You Calm a Dog's Stomach From Vomiting?

If your dog is vomiting excessively, check with your vet. This can be a sign of something serious.

One common technique is to stop giving dogs food for a short while to let their stomach settle. Small, bland meals are also often used, as they are kind to an upset stomach.

Vomiting can be dehydrating, so make sure your pup is drinking enough water. Bone broth or ice cubes can help them get hydration, too.

Sources

–

Earth Buddy is an environmentally conscious and family-owned company dedicated to providing natural solutions for pets. From our CBD oils to our colostrum supplements, our products are designed to promote calmness and encourage relaxation for our furry friends. To learn more and stay connected, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Pinterest.

What to Give a Dog for an Upset Stomach

Key Takeaways

Understanding Your Dog's Upset Stomach