An upset stomach can be miserable for our furry friends. Just like us, dogs can experience digestive issues that leave them feeling nauseous, gassy, or with diarrhea. When your dog is experiencing an upset tummy, you might wonder, “What Foods Can Dogs Eat With Upset Stomach?” It’s crucial to select foods that are easy on their digestive system and help soothe their discomfort. This article will explore the best dietary choices to help your canine companion get back to their happy, healthy self.
Choosing the right food when your dog has an upset stomach is essential for their recovery. You’ll want to avoid anything that might further irritate their system, so rich, fatty, or heavily processed foods are definitely off the menu. Instead, focus on bland and easily digestible options.
Understanding Why Your Dog Has an Upset Stomach
Before diving into what to feed your dog with an upset stomach, it’s helpful to understand why they might be experiencing digestive issues. Common causes include:
- Dietary indiscretion: Eating something they shouldn’t have, like garbage or spoiled food.
- Sudden diet change: Switching food brands or formulas too quickly.
- Food allergies or intolerances: Reactions to certain ingredients.
- Stress or anxiety: Changes in routine or environment can impact digestion.
- Infections: Bacterial or viral infections in the digestive tract.
- Parasites: Internal parasites like worms can cause digestive upset.
It’s important to identify the potential cause so that you can work with your vet to address the underlying issue if it persists. For now, let’s focus on foods that can provide relief.
Gentle Foods for Dogs with Upset Stomach
When your dog’s tummy is acting up, simplicity is key. The best foods to offer are those that are bland, easily digestible, and low in fat. Here are some excellent options:
Plain Cooked White Rice
White rice is a go-to for many pet owners when their dogs have digestive problems. It’s easily digestible and helps to bind stool, which can be particularly useful if your dog has diarrhea. Always cook it plain, without any seasonings, butter, or oil. “Plain white rice is a gentle carbohydrate that’s easy on the stomach,” says Dr. Emily Carter, a veterinary nutritionist.
Boiled Chicken (Skinless, Boneless)
Boiled, skinless, boneless chicken provides a lean source of protein that is easy to digest. Make sure to remove all skin and bones to avoid further upsetting the digestive system. The combination of white rice and boiled chicken is a classic for dogs with upset stomachs because it is a bland diet. If you’re considering other protein options, remember to check out what are human foods that are good for dogs.
Plain Cooked Sweet Potato (No Skin)
Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients and fiber, but they should be cooked plainly without added seasonings, butter, or skin to be gentle on the stomach. When cooking, be sure to peel off all the skin before serving. These provide a good source of complex carbohydrates, a nice option to supplement the rice mentioned before.
Plain Pumpkin Puree (Not Pumpkin Pie Filling)
Plain pumpkin puree is another great option for dogs with upset stomachs. It’s high in fiber and can help with both diarrhea and constipation. Make sure it is pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can be harmful to your dog. A small amount can be very helpful in soothing digestive issues.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
Low-sodium chicken broth can be helpful in keeping your dog hydrated. It can also encourage a picky dog to eat during recovery. Make sure it’s low sodium, as excess salt can be detrimental to your dog’s health. Warm broth can be especially comforting to a dog that’s not feeling well. It’s a great way to get your dog eating again, especially if you’re trying to introduce them to some of the more solid foods on this list. If you are not sure about other foods, it’s good to review the general guidelines on what foods should you not give dogs before introducing anything new.
Cottage Cheese (Low-Fat, Plain)
A small amount of plain, low-fat cottage cheese can be gentle on the stomach and provide a good source of protein. Make sure it does not have any added flavors or spices. It can be a good alternative if your dog seems reluctant to eat plain meat, though chicken is often the preferred source of protein.
What Foods to Avoid When Your Dog Has an Upset Stomach
Just as important as knowing what to feed your dog is knowing what to avoid. Here are some foods that can exacerbate your dog’s upset stomach:
- Fatty or greasy foods: These can be difficult to digest and may cause further nausea and discomfort.
- Dairy products: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, and dairy products can worsen digestive issues.
- Spicy foods: Spices can irritate the stomach lining.
- Rich foods: Anything that’s heavily seasoned or has a lot of butter or oil.
- Human snacks: Chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic and foods containing xylitol are toxic to dogs. Check what foods should you never feed a dog for a comprehensive list of dangerous items.
- Raw foods: Raw meats can contain harmful bacteria that can make your dog sicker.
- Bones: Bones can splinter and cause injury or digestive upset.
How to Introduce Food Gradually
When you start feeding your dog after an upset stomach, introduce food slowly and in small portions. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Start with fasting: If your dog is vomiting, consider a 12-24 hour fast to let their stomach settle, but always check with your vet if symptoms are severe.
- Offer small amounts: Start with a very small amount of the bland food. A tablespoon or two is a good starting point.
- Monitor their reaction: Wait to see if they can keep the food down and if they show any signs of discomfort.
- Increase the portion gradually: If they tolerate the small portion well, increase it slightly over the next 24 hours.
- Continue the bland diet: Keep them on this diet for a day or two after their symptoms have resolved to ensure their digestive system is back on track.
- Reintroduce regular food slowly: Gradually mix their normal food with the bland food over a few days to avoid another upset.
When to See a Vet
While a bland diet can often resolve mild stomach upsets, it’s crucial to know when to seek professional veterinary help. See a vet if your dog experiences:
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
- Signs of dehydration
- Any other concerning symptoms
“If your dog’s symptoms persist for more than 24 hours or are severe, it’s always best to consult with your vet,” advises Dr. Thomas Lee, DVM.
Feeding a Bland Diet for Specific Dog Breeds
While the general principles of feeding a bland diet apply to all dogs, certain breeds may have particular sensitivities or needs. For instance, smaller breeds like Pomeranians often need very small, frequent meals. The information in what human food can pomeranians eat might also be helpful as they may be more sensitive to diet changes. Always observe your dog’s individual needs and adjust portions and frequency as needed.
In Conclusion
When your dog is dealing with an upset stomach, choosing the right food is essential for their recovery. Opt for bland, easily digestible options like plain white rice, boiled chicken, plain cooked sweet potato, plain pumpkin puree, low-sodium chicken broth, and plain low-fat cottage cheese. Avoid fatty, spicy, or rich foods and gradually reintroduce their regular food as they improve. Remember, if symptoms are severe or persist, always consult with your veterinarian. Knowing “what foods can dogs eat with upset stomach” is a key part of responsible pet ownership. By carefully managing their diet during digestive issues, you can help your furry friend feel better and get back to their happy, healthy selves. Be sure to keep the foods mentioned earlier in mind whenever your dog is not feeling well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What can I give my dog for diarrhea and vomiting?
For diarrhea and vomiting, stick to a bland diet including foods like plain white rice and boiled chicken. Make sure to feed small portions frequently, allowing their stomach to settle. If symptoms persist, consult your vet.
How much boiled chicken and rice should I give my dog with an upset stomach?
Start with a very small portion like a tablespoon or two, and increase gradually over the next 24 hours if your dog tolerates it well. Ensure to mix a good amount of rice to chicken to ensure it is gentle on the stomach.
Can I give my dog scrambled eggs with an upset stomach?
Plain, cooked scrambled eggs (without any milk or seasonings) can sometimes be okay, but are not the first recommended food. It is always best to stick to chicken and white rice to be safe. If you do try this, do it after the symptoms start to improve.
Is pumpkin safe for all dogs?
Yes, plain pumpkin puree is safe for all dogs. However, make sure it’s plain and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added ingredients that are harmful.
How long should my dog be on a bland diet?
Generally, keep your dog on a bland diet for 1-2 days after symptoms subside, then gradually reintroduce their regular food over several days to avoid another upset.
When should I take my dog to the vet for vomiting?
If your dog is vomiting repeatedly, has bloody vomit, is lethargic, or if the vomiting persists for more than 24 hours, seek veterinary advice immediately. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Can stress cause digestive issues in dogs?
Yes, stress and anxiety can absolutely impact a dog’s digestion. Changes in routine, environment, or any sort of stressor can cause an upset stomach.