What to Do When Your Pup Has an Upset Tummy

Why Do Dogs Get an Upset Tummy?

Just like us, our furry friends occasionally suffer from gastrointestinal upsets. In many cases, it’s nothing more serious than doggy indigestion, but it’s still worrying when your pup seems off.

Common triggers include:

• Dietary indiscretion – eating something they shouldn’t, such as bin scraps or rich human food.
• A sudden change in diet – switching food too quickly can upset the gut.
• Intestinal infections – parasites, bacteria or viruses can irritate the stomach.
• Stress or underlying disorders – anxiety or illness may show up as diarrhea or vomiting.

If your dog’s upset stomach lasts more than a couple of days, or if there’s blood in the vomit or stool, always contact your veterinarian.

Spotting the Signs

Signs of tummy trouble can include loose stools, vomiting, gas, gurgling noises, or a decreased appetite. Your normally energetic buddy might seem lethargic or reluctant to play.

If your pup is a puppy, senior dog, or has other health conditions, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice at the first sign of distress. It’s always better to err on the side of caution.

First Steps: Rest & Hydration

Before raiding the pantry for random remedies, call your vet to discuss the situation.

If you get the go‑ahead to manage at home, the VCA Animal Hospitals recommend resting the gastrointestinal tract by fasting your dog for 12-24 hours. Offer fresh, clean water throughout the fast to prevent dehydration.

Gentle Foods That Soothe an Upset Stomach

Once your pup has rested, slowly reintroduce food with a bland diet for dogs. Bland diets are gentle, highly digestible and low in fat, helping calm the gut.

Here are some tummy‑friendly options:

• Rice water: Cook 1 cup of white rice in 4 cups of water; strain out the rice and offer the cooled starchy broth.
• Plain, cooked rice: Use the rice saved from making rice water and feed small amounts.
• Boiled chicken or lean turkey: Typical lean proteins (chicken, turkey, cottage cheese, ground beef) are easily tolerated by dogs with upset tummies. Remove skin and bones and avoid seasoning.
• Plain boiled potato: Soft, unseasoned potatoes offer an alternative carbohydrate.
• Pumpkin: Plain, canned pumpkin (not pie filling) adds soluble fibre that can help bind stool.
• Plain yogurt: If your dog tolerates dairy, a small amount of yogurt with live cultures may aid digestion.
• Eggs: Cooked eggs without butter or oil provide gentle protein. For longer‑term support, commercial sensitive‑stomach diets offer balanced nutrition. These diets pair lean proteins with carbohydrates like white rice or potatoes, and often include added fibre or probiotics.

When to See a Vet

If your pup’s upset stomach doesn’t improve within 48-72 hours, or if they exhibit severe vomiting, lethargy, collapse or bloody diarrhea, see a vet right away.

Over‑the‑counter human medications like Pepto‑Bismol or Imodium are dangerous for dogs and should never be given without veterinary guidance.

Prevention Tips

Prevention is always the best medicine! Here are a few ways to keep your pup’s tummy happy:

• Transition to new foods gradually over a week.
• Keep trash and rich human treats out of reach.
• Offer plenty of clean water and maintain a regular feeding schedule.
• Keep up with parasite prevention and vaccinations.
• Provide chews and toys (like Kongs or LickiMats) to prevent boredom, which can lead to scavenging.

Let’s Chat!

Upset tummies are no fun for pups or their people, but with a little care and a bland diet, most dogs bounce back quickly.

Have you tried pumpkin or rice water with your pooch? Share your experiences and favourite dog upset stomach remedies. We love hearing your stories!

And don’t forget, if symptoms linger or worsen, your vet is the best person to help your furry bestie feel pawsitively better. Happy tummy, happy trails!