When our beloved canine companions are in peak health, their appetite is typically robust, a joy for any dog owner. However, when illness strikes, particularly an upset stomach, it’s common for dogs, much like humans, to lose interest in their regular food. This can be a worrying time, leaving us unsure of the best approach to ensure they receive the nutrition needed for recovery. Providing the right food is crucial to help boost their energy levels, soothe their digestive system, and speed up their return to their happy, healthy selves. Understanding what options are best and how to prepare them can make all the difference in their comfort and recovery. This guide, brought to you by Dog Care Story, aims to equip you with the knowledge to care for your four-legged friend when they’re feeling under the weather. Discover a variety of nutritious and easy-to-digest foods that can help them get back on their paws. what foods you can feed your dog to ensure you’re always prepared.
Understanding Your Dog’s Upset Stomach
An upset stomach in dogs can manifest in various ways, including vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, and general discomfort. Several factors can contribute to these issues, such as dietary indiscretion (eating something they shouldn’t), sudden changes in diet, stress, parasites, bacterial infections, or underlying health conditions. While a temporary upset stomach often resolves with a bland diet, persistent or severe symptoms warrant a visit to your veterinarian to rule out more serious concerns. The primary goal when your dog has an upset stomach is to provide easily digestible, soothing foods that won’t exacerbate their symptoms and will help restore their gut health.
It’s important to approach feeding a sick dog with patience and observation. Small, frequent meals are often better than large ones, as they can be easier on a sensitive digestive system. Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water to prevent dehydration, which can quickly become a serious issue with vomiting or diarrhea. If your dog refuses to drink, offer ice cubes or small sips of diluted, unseasoned bone broth to encourage hydration. Monitoring their condition closely and noting any changes in their symptoms or appetite is key to providing the best care and knowing when professional veterinary intervention is needed.
10 Best Foods for Dogs with Upset Stomachs
If your dog is sick, it’s only natural for you to worry about what to feed them. Generally, a plain, bland diet of nutritious foods works best when caring for your dog’s upset stomach. It’s good practice to have some healthy, nutritious options ready should your dog’s health take an unexpected turn so you can be prepared to help nurse them back to health. However, should your dog continue to be sick, we’d recommend consulting your vet for further advice. Here are ten of the best, most nutritious, failsafe options to feed a dog with an upset stomach:
1. Boiled White Meat (Chicken/Turkey)
Plain white meat, such as chicken or turkey, is the perfect option for a sick dog as it is easy to digest and low in fat. Feeding your dog chicken or turkey breast is best; it provides lean protein and can help to soothe your dog’s stomach. Remember to remove any skin or bones from the breast before you feed it to your dog, as this removes any risk of choking and makes the meat easier on your dog’s digestive system. This bland, easily digestible protein source helps provide essential nutrients without overloading their compromised system, making it a cornerstone of a recovery diet.
You can prepare the meat for your dog by following these simple steps:
- Start by rinsing the meat thoroughly under cold water.
- Remove any excess fat, skin, or bones.
- Place the meat in a pot and cover it with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the meat simmer for 15-20 minutes until thoroughly cooked.
- Once cooked, drain the water and cut the meat into small, bite-sized pieces, as this will be easier for your dog to digest.
- Allow to cool completely, then serve alone or alongside plain white rice or cooked, dog-safe vegetables. Many of these options, like chicken and rice, are common what human food do dogs eat that are safe for pets when prepared correctly.
A small Chihuahua dog looking intently at its owner
2. Plain White Rice
White and brown rice are staple ingredients of most dog foods, so it’s no wonder they’re a successful option when your dog is under the weather. The perfect accompaniment to chicken, although brown rice is more nutritious for dogs, the blandness of white rice makes it a safer choice when your dog is sick, as it’s easier for them to digest. Its low fiber content helps to bind stools, making it particularly beneficial for dogs experiencing diarrhea.
If your dog has diarrhea, white rice can also help to bind their stools, helping their digestive system return to normal. The simple carbohydrates provide a gentle energy source, vital for a recovering dog that might be feeling weak. Here’s how to cook the rice properly for your sick pup:
- Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming too sticky.
- Add your rice to a large pan, then add two parts water to one part rice. Avoid adding salt or any seasonings, as these can further irritate an upset stomach.
- Bring to a boil, then immediately turn down to a simmer. Put a lid on the pan and allow the rice to cook on low heat for about 18 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Allow to rest and cool; fluff with a fork, then serve plain or mixed with boiled chicken.
3. Cooked Sweet Potatoes
Plain, cooked sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and fiber and incredibly gentle on the stomach, making them an excellent choice for soothing your dog’s stomach and intestines. They can help to improve your dog’s health by providing them with essential calcium, iron, and magnesium. The natural sweetness can also make them appealing to dogs who have lost their appetite. Moreover, sweet potatoes are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients, which can aid in calming an irritated digestive tract and supporting overall immune function during recovery.
Slices of cooked sweet potato on a rustic wooden table
Don’t feed your dog raw sweet potatoes, as they are harder to digest and could further upset your dog’s stomach. Instead, peel the skins thoroughly, chop the potatoes into small chunks, and add to a pan of boiling water. Boil until they are very soft and easily mashed, then drain and mash them thoroughly for your dog. Allow them to cool completely before feeding. Remember to avoid any added butter, salt, or spices, as these are what people food should dogs not eat when their stomach is sensitive.
4. Pumpkin
Pumpkins, like sweet potatoes, are very effective in curing an upset stomach and making a sick dog feel better. Rich in vitamins that help boost your dog’s immune system, they’re also full of fiber, which can help regulate digestion. Both soluble and insoluble fiber in pumpkin can aid in cases of both diarrhea and constipation by promoting healthy bowel movements and adding bulk to stools. Its high water content also contributes to hydration.
Give your dog up to four tablespoons of plain, cooked pumpkin with their regular bland meal (or alongside their chicken and rice) to help their recovery. Start with a smaller amount and observe how your dog reacts.
Canned pumpkin can be as effective as fresh, provided it has no added sugar or extra seasonings or ingredients. Always ensure you are using 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains spices and sugars that are harmful to dogs. Avoid seasonings, including sugar or pumpkin pie seasoning, as this could make your dog’s stomach feel worse.
A happy Husky dog smiling next to a carved pumpkin slice
5. Homemade Bone Broth
Bone broth is great for sick dogs as it provides essential nutrients and minerals such as sodium and potassium and can also aid hydration. The gelatin found in bone broth is particularly beneficial for gut health, helping to soothe and repair the lining of the digestive tract. It’s a highly palatable and easily digestible liquid that can encourage a dog with a suppressed appetite to consume vital nutrients and fluids.
Low in carbohydrates and rich in amino acids, bone broth is an excellent choice for sick dogs with an upset stomach as it’s gentle and easy to digest. Avoid using garlic or excessive salt when cooking, as these could further upset your dog’s stomach or be toxic. Focus on a simple, pure broth.
You can prepare your dog’s bone broth by following these simple steps:
- Add beef or pork marrow bones and chicken or turkey bones to a large cooking pot. You can also add a splash of apple cider vinegar to help extract minerals.
- Cover with a few inches of water and cook on low heat for an extended period, typically 20-24 hours. The longer it simmers, the more nutrients are extracted.
- Once finished, allow it to cool, then strain to remove all bones and solids, leaving only the liquid broth.
- Refrigerate and skim off any solidified fat before serving, as too much fat can upset a dog’s stomach. Serve warm, not hot.
6. Plain Baby Food (Meat-based)
If your puppy is struggling with its stomach, stage 2 meat-based baby foods such as chicken, lamb, and turkey can be an effective feeding choice. The smooth, pureed consistency of baby food makes it incredibly easy to swallow and digest, which is ideal for very young puppies or dogs who are severely nauseous or have difficulty chewing. It’s also often highly palatable, which can tempt a dog that’s reluctant to eat.
Adorable puppies eating from a communal plate of baby food
If you feed baby food, however, always meticulously check the ingredients to avoid additives or ingredients that could be toxic to dogs, especially garlic or onion powder. These are common culprits in human foods that can harm dogs.
Baby food is easy to chew and digest and can help treat the stomach and diarrhea. It provides concentrated nutrients in a format that requires minimal digestive effort. If you’re unsure about certain ingredients in your chosen baby food, consult your vet for further advice to ensure it’s safe for your specific dog. Sometimes, dogs are not eating, and a palatable, easily digestible option like baby food can be key to jump-starting their appetite, especially after a period of illness. You can learn more about what to feed a dog that’s not eating in our dedicated guide.
7. Poached Fish
Fish is an excellent source of healthy fats and vitamins, which can do wonders for your dog’s health and immune system when they’ve been struggling with their stomach. Fish like cod, haddock, or whitefish are lean and easily digestible, offering a good source of protein and essential fatty acids (like Omega-3s) which have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the digestive tract.
The strong smell of fish can also entice your dog back to its bowl and encourage it to eat after it’s lost its appetite, making it a great option for picky eaters during recovery. Ensure the fish is plain and unseasoned.
The best way to prepare fish for your dog is to poach it. Similar to how you would boil chicken for your dog, add the fish to a pan of water, bring it to a boil, then reduce and simmer for 10-15 minutes until thoroughly cooked and flaky. Remove all of the bones meticulously and cut the fish into small, manageable pieces before feeding it to your dog.
8. Plain Cooked Oatmeal
A type of porridge made from rolled oats, plain, cooked oatmeal can help soothe your dog’s upset stomach. High in soluble fiber, it can aid in regulating bowel movements, proving beneficial for both diarrhea and constipation by absorbing excess water or adding bulk. It contains antioxidants ideal for reducing stomach inflammation and provides a gentle, sustained energy release.
While feeding oatmeal is a good thing, don’t overdo it. Oatmeal is full of fiber, and too much in your dog’s stomach could make it feel even more sick, leading to gas or further digestive upset, so go sparingly. Always use plain, unflavored oats, cooked with water (not milk), and without any added sugars, salt, or artificial sweeteners. A small serving mixed with other bland foods can be very beneficial.
9. Plain Yogurt
Plain yogurt, full of probiotics and free of additional sweeteners, is the perfect food for a dog with an upset stomach, provided your dog is not lactose intolerant. The live active cultures (probiotics) found in yogurt can help to restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in your dog’s gut, which is often disrupted during an upset stomach. Aiding in digestion and supporting gut health, if your dog has constipation, plain yogurt can help to regulate their digestive system.
A cute puppy with yogurt on its muzzle after enjoying a treat
Plain, natural yogurt (ensure it contains live and active cultures) is easy to source from your local store or supermarket, so it’s easy to acquire if your dog suddenly gets ill. It can even be frozen and served to your dog as a cool, soothing treat on a summer’s day, which can also help with hydration. Always double-check for xylitol, an artificial sweetener toxic to dogs, in any yogurt product. Many healthy vegetables are good for canine digestion, and sometimes even what vegetables can a diabetic dog eat can offer insights into generally healthy, fiber-rich options.
10. Cooked Eggs (Scrambled/Boiled)
As long as your dog isn’t actively vomiting, eggs are an ideal food choice as they are gentle on the stomach and help to give your dog a good source of easily digestible protein. Eggs are also a great energy booster if your dog feels a little lethargic post-illness, offering a complete amino acid profile. Their mild flavor can also be appealing to a dog with a reduced appetite.
Scrambled without butter or oil, or simply boiled, are the best ways to cook your dog’s eggs to ensure they are gentle on its stomach. Avoid any seasonings, cheese, or other additives. If your dog is actively vomiting or experiencing severe diarrhea, it’s best to avoid eggs completely until their stomach has settled somewhat, as even bland foods can sometimes exacerbate acute symptoms.
What to Feed Dogs with Chronic Sensitive Stomachs or Allergies
If your dog regularly suffers from an upset stomach or is often sick, it may be worth consulting your vet to determine whether it’s suffering from food-related or breed-specific allergies. Chronic digestive issues often point to an underlying sensitivity or allergy that requires a more permanent dietary adjustment. Identifying and eliminating the problematic ingredients is key to long-term digestive health.
Highly Digestible Dry Foods (e.g., Cold Pressed)
Traditional kibble can sometimes be problematic for sensitive dogs due to high processing temperatures and filler ingredients. Cold pressed dog food offers a great alternative, particularly if your dog suffers from food-related allergies. This form of dry food undergoes minimal processing at a much lower temperature than traditional kibble, thus retaining a greater nutritional value and making it easier to digest.
Because of how cold pressed dog food is made, it is easily broken down in the stomach, which is ideal for sensitive digestive systems. Made with improved all-round health in mind, it aids digestion and breaks down at the same rate as raw food, so it can be easily fed alongside a raw diet if desired. Available in a range of flavors, including white fish, salmon, and chicken, cold pressed is a perfect choice for keeping your dog happy and healthy. Many brands also offer grain-free options, which are excellent for dogs with grain-related allergies, providing them with nutritionally dense food that won’t upset their tummies.
Novel Protein Options (e.g., Insect Protein)
For dogs with severe or multiple food sensitivities, novel protein sources can be a game-changer. Complete and nutritionally balanced, insect protein cold pressed dog food, for example, is created in the same way as meat protein ranges, pressing at a lower temperature to retain nutritional value and aid digestion. This type of food uses protein sources that your dog has not been exposed to before, reducing the likelihood of an allergic reaction.
As insects contain more protein than traditional sources like chicken or beef, you don’t have to worry that your dog will be missing out on any of its essential nutrients. Insects are also often hypoallergenic and low in purines, making them an ideal food source for dogs with sensitivities or meat-related allergens. This innovative approach to dog food can provide a safe and healthy alternative for dogs struggling with conventional diets. Our insect protein cold pressed range breaks down like meat-based options, so it can be fed alone or alongside raw food.
Raw Food Diets
If your dog is fussy or sensitive to its current kibble, a raw food diet can be a great way to change its diet and potentially alleviate chronic digestive issues. Raw food, often made from natural ingredients that have been minimally processed, is typically grain-free. This approach to feeding aims to mimic the ancestral diet of dogs, promoting better digestion and helping to improve coat, skin, and all-around health.
Raw food diets can be highly customizable, allowing owners to tailor meals to their dog’s specific allergies or sensitivities. Many raw food options come in balanced mixes of meat, offal, and bone, or with added vitamins and minerals, giving you the flexibility to mix with your own vegetables and other ingredients to cater to your dog’s unique needs. This personalized approach makes it easier to provide a diet free from common allergens that might be triggering an upset stomach.
Conclusion
Caring for a dog with an upset stomach can be challenging, but providing the right, easily digestible foods can significantly aid in their recovery and comfort. From bland boiled chicken and white rice to soothing pumpkin and probiotic-rich yogurt, a variety of options can help your canine companion feel better. For dogs with chronic sensitivities or allergies, exploring specialized diets like cold pressed, insect protein, or raw foods, often recommended by veterinarians, can provide long-term relief and improve overall digestive health. Always remember that while these home remedies are helpful for mild cases, persistent or severe symptoms warrant a visit to your veterinarian for professional diagnosis and treatment. Prioritizing your dog’s health and seeking expert advice ensures they receive the best care possible. Explore more helpful articles on Dog Care Story for comprehensive guidance on keeping your pet happy and healthy!
References:
- Veterinary medical guidelines and nutritional advice for dogs with gastrointestinal upset. (General reference, not a specific URL as per instructions).
