Your Dog Has an Upset Stomach: What Do You Do?

A dog with at upset stomach can be stressful for both pets and their owners. Recognizing the symptoms and knowing how to help your furry friend is key to getting them back on their paws. This guide covers the common causes of a dog’s upset stomach, how it might present, and safe ways to soothe their discomfort, including the use of natural remedies like pumpkin.

Common Reasons for an Upset Stomach in Dogs

Dogs can develop an upset stomach for various reasons. Understanding the root cause can help you address the issue effectively. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Dietary Indiscretion: Dogs are curious eaters, and consuming spoiled food, garbage, or toxic substances can lead to stomach issues. If you see your dog eating their own poop, it’s best to put a stop to it (despite how gross the intervention may be). Check out this article for more on why dogs eat poop and how to handle it
2. Food Intolerances or Allergies: A sudden change in diet or exposure to allergens can trigger gastrointestinal issues.
3. Infections or Parasites: Bacterial infections, viruses, or parasites like worms may cause vomiting or diarrhea.
4. Stress or Anxiety: Emotional distress can upset your dog’s digestive system, leading to symptoms like diarrhea. P.S. here are our top tips to help calm down an anxious dog
5. Medical Conditions: Chronic issues such as pancreatitis, kidney disease, or inflammatory bowel disease can manifest as an upset stomach.

How an Upset Stomach Can Present

Dogs express gastrointestinal discomfort in different ways. Recognizing these symptoms can help you identify the problem early:

• Vomiting: Often sudden, vomiting is a common sign of an upset stomach.
• Diarrhea: Loose stools or frequent bowel movements may indicate digestive issues.
• Constipation: Straining or difficulty passing stool is another way stomach problems can appear. Learn more about constipation in dogs here.
• Lethargy: A dog with an upset stomach may seem tired or less active.
• Loss of Appetite: Refusing food is a common indicator of discomfort.
• Excessive Drooling or Lip Smacking: These may be signs of nausea.

 

What to Give Your Dog for an Upset Stomach

When dealing with a dog upset stomach, gentle care and a few at-home remedies can often help:

1. Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a natural and effective remedy for digestive issues in dogs. Rich in fiber and vitamins, it can help with both diarrhea and constipation by regulating bowel movements. Serve plain, unsweetened pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) in small amounts. Remember, moderation is the recipe for a healthy relationship with food

2. Bland Diet

A temporary bland diet can soothe an irritated stomach. Common options include:

• Boiled Chicken and Rice: Easy to digest and gentle on the stomach.
• Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Another fiber-rich option for upset stomachs.
• Boiled Potatoes: Avoid seasoning, butter, or oils.

Note: These formulations do lack key nutrients and should not be fed as long-term solutions. Always best to talk to your vet first!

3. Probiotics

Probiotics can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your dog’s gut. Look for dog-specific probiotics or consult your veterinarian for recommendations.

4. Bone Broth

Hydrating and packed with nutrients, bone broth can be a soothing option for dogs with upset stomachs. It’s important to ensure the broth is plain and free of seasonings like onion or garlic, which are toxic to dogs.

 

When to See a Vet

While mild cases of upset stomach can often be managed at home, some situations require immediate veterinary attention. Contact your vet if:

• Vomiting or diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours.
• Your dog shows signs of dehydration (e.g., dry gums, sunken eyes).
• There is blood in their stool or vomit.
• Your dog is in visible pain or distress.

 

Preventing Upset Stomachs in Dogs

Preventing an irritated gut is always better than dealing with the aftermath! By implementing a few proactive measures, you can minimize the chance your dog will experience stomach issues. Here are some detailed strategies:

1. Stick to a Consistent Diet and Avoid Sudden Changes

Dogs thrive on routine, especially when it comes to their diet. Sudden changes in their food can upset the balance of bacteria in their gut, leading to digestive problems like diarrhea or constipation. If you need to switch their food (due to age, health concerns, or preferences), transition gradually over 7–10 days by mixing the new food with their current diet in increasing proportions.

We at The Pets Table believe this is important, and it’s why we include a feeding guide and transition to every new customer. We’ve also add a postbiotic to our recipes to support digestion, ensuring a smoother transition and promoting a healthy gut microbiome. By combining gradual transitions with our thoughtfully formulated meals, we make it easier for your pup to enjoy their new food without discomfort.

Making the switch doesn’t have to be stressful—just follow our step-by-step feeding guide, and you’ll set your furry friend up for success with a diet that’s both nutritious and delicious.

2. Keep Harmful Foods and Toxic Substances Out of Reach

Many common human foods and household substances are toxic to dogs and can cause serious gastrointestinal issues—or worse. Items like chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and xylitol (found in sugar-free gum) are particularly harmful. Get the full list here!

Additionally, ensure cleaning products, medications, and garden chemicals are stored securely.

If your dog is naturally curious or prone to scavenging, consider using pet-proof containers and trash bins to minimize their access to potentially harmful items.

3. Ensure Your Dog’s Vaccinations and Deworming Are Up to Date

Parasites and infectious diseases can wreak havoc on your dog’s digestive system. Regular deworming prevents intestinal parasites like roundworms and hookworms, which are common causes of upset stomachs. Similarly, vaccinations can protect against infections like parvovirus, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress.

Consult your veterinarian to establish a vaccination and deworming schedule that suits your dog’s age, lifestyle, and local risks.

4. Provide Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation to Reduce Stress

Stress and anxiety can have a significant impact on your dog’s digestive health, leading to upset stomachs. Regular exercise not only keeps their body fit but also supports healthy digestion by promoting gut motility. The same applies to us humans, so grab that leash, and make room for frequent walks to mitigate stress and spend quality time together.

Mental stimulation—from puzzle toys, training, or interactive play—reduces boredom and anxiety, which are common triggers of stress-related digestive issues. Establish a consistent routine of physical and mental activities to keep your dog happy and relaxed.

Keeping your pup engaged both physically and mentally is key to their overall well-being. Looking for more ways to keep your dog entertained and mentally stimulated? Check out our guide on How to Prevent Boredom in Dogs for fun ideas to keep their tail wagging and their mind active!

5. Introduce Probiotics and High-Quality Nutrition

Feeding your dog a balanced, high-quality diet can support gut health and reduce the risk of upset stomachs. Consider incorporating probiotics into their diet, as these beneficial bacteria help maintain a healthy digestive system and reduce the chances of imbalances.

At The Pets Table, our fresh and air-dried recipes are crafted to promote overall wellness, including gut health. Transitioning to high-quality food can make a noticeable difference in your dog’s digestion and happiness.

Understanding the causes of an upset stomach and common remedies can help you provide them quick relief. If your dog frequently experiences digestive issues, it might be time to consider their diet. Explore our nutrient-packed air-dried recipes for gentle, balanced nutrition that supports gut health. Shop now and get 50% off your first box!