Are you wondering what to feed your furry friend with an upset stomach? Look no further! In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about what to feed a dog with an upset stomach.
What Causes an Upset Stomach in Dogs?
An upset stomach in dogs can have various causes, such as dietary changes, ingesting inedible items, infections, and stress. The symptoms of an upset stomach include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
What to Feed a Dog with an Upset Stomach
Preventative Measures | Description |
---|---|
Maintain a Consistent Diet | Consistency is key when it comes to your dogs diet. A sudden change in food can cause an upset stomach, so gradually introduce new foods or new brands of food to your dogs diet. Avoid giving your dog table scraps or human food, which can be difficult for dogs to digest. |
Dont Let Your Dog Eat Inedible Items | Dogs like to chew on things, but some items can be dangerous and cause an upset stomach. Make sure to keep household items, such as socks, shoes, and toys, out of reach. Keep an eye on your dog when theyre outside and prevent them from eating grass, sticks, or other random items they may find. |
Provide Access to Clean Water | Your dog needs access to clean, fresh water at all times. Make sure to change their water bowl daily and clean it regularly to prevent bacteria buildup. |
Exercise Your Dog Regularly | Regular exercise can help regulate your dogs digestion and prevent constipation. Even a short walk around the block can make a difference. Make sure to adjust the intensity of exercise based on your dog’s age and breed. |
Schedule Regular Vet Check-Ups | Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help identify potential health issues before they become more severe. Your vet can also recommend preventative measures or dietary changes for your dog based on their specific needs. |
When your dog has an upset stomach, it’s essential to feed them foods that are easy to digest and won’t further irritate their stomach. Here are some of the best foods to feed your dog when they have an upset stomach:
Boiled Chicken and Rice
Boiled chicken and rice are a classic remedy for an upset stomach in dogs. The blandness of the chicken and rice can help soothe your dog’s stomach while providing them with much-needed nutrients. Be sure to remove any bones from the chicken and cook the rice thoroughly.
Plain Yogurt
Plain yogurt is a great source of probiotics, which can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your dog’s gut. When choosing yogurt for your dog, choose one that is low in sugar and doesn’t contain any artificial sweeteners.
Personal Story: Dealing with My Dog’s Upset Stomach
Last month, my dog Max woke me up in the middle of the night with his whining. I noticed he had diarrhea and was vomiting. I immediately called the vet, who advised me to fast him for 12 hours and then start feeding him a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice.
After the fasting period, I started giving him small amounts of the chicken and rice mixture, and gradually increased the amount over the next few days. Max’s symptoms improved significantly, and he was back to his normal self within a week.
It was a scary experience, but it taught me the importance of being prepared for my dog’s upset stomach and having a plan in place. I now keep a supply of boiled chicken and rice in my freezer, just in case.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a great source of fiber, which can help regulate your dog’s digestion. It’s also high in vitamins and minerals, which can help boost your dog’s overall health. Be sure to choose plain canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which can contain added sugars and spices.
Bone Broth
Bone broth is a great source of nutrients and can help soothe your dog’s upset stomach. It’s also easy to digest, making it a great choice for dogs with digestive issues. Be sure to choose a bone broth that is made with high-quality ingredients and doesn’t contain any added salt or preservatives.
Foods to Avoid
When your dog has an upset stomach, there are certain foods you should avoid feeding them. These include:
Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can irritate your dog’s stomach and make their symptoms worse.
Fatty Foods
Fatty foods are challenging for dogs to digest and can cause further irritation to their stomach.
Dairy Products
While plain yogurt can be beneficial for dogs with upset stomachs, other dairy products, such as cheese and milk, can be difficult for dogs to digest and can cause further discomfort.
Human Food
While it may be tempting to feed your dog scraps from the table, human food can be difficult for dogs to digest and can cause an upset stomach.
When to See a Vet
Most cases of upset stomach in dogs can be treated at home. However, if your dog’s symptoms last for more than 24 hours, if they’re unable to keep any food or water down, or if they’re showing other signs of illness, such as lethargy or vomiting, it’s important to seek veterinary care.
Conclusion
An upset stomach in dogs can be a stressful experience for both you and your furry friend. By understanding the causes of an upset stomach and feeding your dog the right foods, you can help ease their discomfort and get them back to their healthy selves. Remember to always consult with your vet when you’re unsure what to feed your dog.
Insider Tip: It’s important to gradually reintroduce your dog’s regular food once their stomach has settled. This can help prevent a recurrence of their upset stomach.
Sources:
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Upset Stomach in Dogs: Causes and Natural Home Remedies. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-upset-stomach-causes-natural-remedies/
- PetMD. (n.d.). Dog Upset Stomach: Causes and Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com/dog/emergency/common-emergencies/e_dg_upset_stomach
- Purina. (2021). What to Feed a Dog With an Upset Stomach. Retrieved from https://www.purina.com/articles/dog/health/what-to-feed-a-dog-with-an-upset-stomach
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can benefit from upset stomach remedies for dogs?
Any dog suffering from vomiting or diarrhea.
What causes an upset stomach in dogs?
Common causes include eating spoiled food or foreign objects.
How long should I withhold food if my dog has an upset stomach?
For 12-24 hours to allow their stomach to settle.
What should I feed my dog with an upset stomach?
Boiled chicken and rice are easy to digest and can help ease symptoms.
How can I prevent my dog from getting an upset stomach?
Avoid feeding them table scraps and make sure they have access to clean water.
But what if my dog refuses to eat the recommended food?
Try offering a small amount of low-fat cottage cheese or plain yogurt instead.