When your senior dog experiences digestive distress, characterized by a sensitive stomach or inconsistent bowel movements, finding the right food can be a challenge. This gentle, easy-to-digest stew, featuring turkey, rice, pumpkin, and sweet potato, is the perfect solution for what to feed a dog with an upset stomach or loose stool.
This recipe was developed for Haley, a 15-year-old Boxer Mastiff, who occasionally suffers from digestive issues. After a difficult week, this stew became her go-to meal, quickly resolving her tummy troubles. It has since become known as “Tummy Tamer Stew” and has earned Haley’s official approval – a significant endorsement from a discerning palate.
It is crucial to consult your veterinarian before making any dietary changes for your dog, especially if they have underlying health conditions or persistent digestive problems.
Why This Recipe is Ideal for Senior Dogs with Upset Stomachs
This homemade stew offers a gentle yet nutrient-rich option for dogs experiencing digestive upset. Its key benefits include:
- Simple, Recognizable Ingredients: Made with wholesome, real foods that dogs can easily process.
- Digestive Support: Specifically formulated to be gentle on sensitive stomachs and help firm up loose stools naturally.
- Nutrient-Rich: Despite its gentle nature, the stew provides essential nutrients for senior dogs.
- Budget-Friendly and Freezer-Friendly: An economical option that can be prepared in advance and stored for later use.
If you’ve been searching for “what to feed a dog with an upset tummy,” this homemade stew is a highly effective and palatable choice.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
- Lean Ground Turkey (1 pound): A high-quality, easily digestible protein source, ideal for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Cooked White Rice (1 cup): A classic remedy for digestive upset, white rice helps firm stools and provides readily available energy.
- Pumpkin Puree (½ cup): This versatile ingredient helps regulate digestion, beneficial for both diarrhea and constipation.
- Sweet Potato (½ cup, diced or mashed): Offers natural fiber and a gentle sweetness that is kind to the digestive system.
- Carrot (1 medium, chopped): Adds fiber and nutrients, supporting smoother digestion.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Bone Broth (2 cups): Provides moisture and flavor without irritating the stomach. Bone broth is particularly beneficial for senior dogs due to its gut-healing properties.
- Plain Greek Yogurt (1 tablespoon, per serving): A source of probiotics and protein, added just before serving to support gut health.
- Crushed Eggshell Powder (½ teaspoon, optional): A natural source of calcium. This can be easily prepared at home.
Full Ingredient List:
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- ½ medium sweet potato, peeled and mashed (about ¾ cup)
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken bone broth or water
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt (for serving)
- ½ teaspoon crushed eggshell powder (optional)
Instructions: How to Prepare Tummy Tamer Stew
- Brown the Turkey: In a medium pot or skillet, cook 1 pound of lean ground turkey over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in the mashed sweet potato, pumpkin puree, diced carrot, and 2 cups of bone broth. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Incorporate Rice: Add 1 cup of cooked white rice to the pot and stir well.
- Simmer to Thicken: Continue to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and the vegetables are tender.
- Cool Completely: Allow the stew to cool down entirely before serving to prevent burns.
- Final Touch: Just before serving, stir in 1 tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt per portion.
Pro Tip: As the stew sits in the refrigerator, the rice and other ingredients will absorb liquid. To achieve the right consistency before serving, add a splash of warm broth or water and stir to loosen it up.
Serving Size and Storage
This recipe yields approximately 4 to 5 cups of stew, suitable for about 4 to 5 meals for an average 50-60 lb senior dog.
| Dog Weight | Daily Serving | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10–25 lbs | ½ to 1 cup | Split into 2 meals |
| 25–50 lbs | 1 to 2 cups | Split into 2 meals |
| 50+ lbs | 2 to 3 cups | Split into 2–3 meals |
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Spoon cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. For convenient meal prep, portion the stew into silicone muffin trays before freezing; pop out a portion to thaw as needed.
Variations and Helpful Add-ins
- Protein Swap: Use ground chicken or lean beef instead of turkey if your dog tolerates them well.
- Vegetable Options: Incorporate mashed white potato, chopped spinach, or green beans.
- For Settled Stomachs: Once your dog’s digestive system has stabilized, consider adding:
- A spoonful of canned pumpkin for extra fiber.
- Plain cottage cheese for protein and calcium.
- Cooked oatmeal for gentle soluble fiber.
- A drizzle of olive oil to aid digestion.
Understanding Bone Broth vs. Chicken Broth
- Chicken Broth: Made by simmering meat and sometimes bones with vegetables for 1-2 hours. It has less collagen and is primarily for flavor.
- Chicken Bone Broth: Prepared by simmering bones for an extended period (12-24 hours) to extract collagen, gelatin, minerals, and amino acids. It’s thicker when cooled and offers significant benefits for joint, gut, and skin health.
For this recipe, regular chicken broth is acceptable for flavor and hydration. However, chicken bone broth provides superior gut-soothing benefits and additional nutrients, making it particularly valuable for senior dogs with sensitive digestion or joint issues. If using store-bought bone broth, be mindful of sodium content and reduce added salt.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? White rice is generally easier for an upset stomach to digest.
- Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling? No, only use 100% pure pumpkin puree, free from added sugars or spices.
- Can I feed this long-term? This recipe is excellent for short-term recovery. For long-term feeding, consult a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to ensure a balanced diet.
Why Senior Dogs Experience Digestive Issues
As dogs age, their digestive processes naturally slow down. Reduced activity, decreased water intake, and changes in appetite can contribute to constipation. Conversely, stress, medications like antibiotics, or high-fat diets can lead to diarrhea.
A moist, easily digestible homemade dog food like this Tummy Tamer Stew is crucial for maintaining regularity and soothing an upset stomach in senior dogs.
How to Make Eggshell Powder
Eggshells are a cost-effective, natural calcium supplement.
- Rinse used eggshells thoroughly and allow them to dry completely.
- Bake at 300°F for about 10 minutes to eliminate bacteria and ease crushing.
- Once cooled, grind them into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Store in an airtight jar. Use approximately ½ teaspoon per pound of homemade food.
Optional Egg Add-In
Once your dog’s stomach has settled, you can add one scrambled egg per two cups of stew for an extra protein boost. However, eggs can sometimes loosen stools slightly, so introduce them only after the digestive upset has passed.
Tips for Success
- Always consult your veterinarian before altering your dog’s diet, particularly if they have pre-existing health conditions.
- Ensure the stew remains moist, as hydration is vital for senior dogs’ digestion.
- Warming the food can enhance its aroma and flavor, making it more appealing to picky eaters.
- Using frozen pre-cut vegetables can be a convenient way to add nutrients without worrying about spoilage.
Final Thoughts
Navigating senior dog digestive issues can be challenging, but with patience and the right diet, you can help your furry companion feel better. This homemade Tummy Tamer Stew offers a gentle, effective, and palatable solution. By providing proper nutrition and care, you can contribute to fewer tummy troubles and more happy moments with your beloved senior dog.
