When your furry friend isn’t feeling well, it’s hard not to worry. Their usual enthusiasm for mealtime fades, and that happy tail wag seems to disappear. But don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there are simple, soothing foods that can help settle their tummy. This guide will walk you through the best ways to feed a dog with an upset stomach, plus offer some gentle, homemade recipes and health tips to help your pup feel better fast. Let’s get started on helping your dog feel like themselves again.
1. Stick to Simple, Gentle Foods
- When your dog’s stomach is upset, keep their food simple and bland. Plain boiled chicken (without any seasoning) is a gentle option that’s easy on digestion.
- Another go-to is plain white rice. Rice provides easy-to-digest carbohydrates and helps bind the stomach, reducing any queasiness.
- Pumpkin purée is also a great choice, as it’s high in fiber and can help soothe digestion. Just be sure to avoid any sweetened or spiced varieties.
Dog Health Tip: Always introduce these foods slowly. Start with small portions and wait to see how your dog’s stomach reacts.
2. Bone Broth for Rehydration and Comfort
- Bone broth is both hydrating and gentle, making it ideal for dogs with upset stomachs. It’s packed with nutrients like collagen and amino acids that can help heal the gut.
- Homemade bone broth is best, as store-bought options can contain ingredients that aren’t safe for dogs.
Dog Remedies Tip: Pour a bit of bone broth over plain rice for a comforting meal that’s easy to digest.
3. Feed Small, Frequent Meals
- Rather than giving one big meal, divide your dog’s food into smaller, more frequent portions. This approach is gentler on their stomach and prevents overwhelming the digestive system.
What to Feed Dogs Tip: Stick to portions that are one-third of their normal meal size every few hours until their stomach settles.
4. Try a Few Homemade Dog Treats for Upset Stomachs
- Making homemade dog treats with calming ingredients can help your pup enjoy food without aggravating their stomach. Here are two easy dog treat recipes that are gentle enough for sensitive tummies.
Recipe 1: Simple Sweet Potato Treats
- Ingredients: 1 large sweet potato, thinly sliced
- Instructions: Bake the slices at 250°F (120°C) for 2 hours or until they’re dried but chewy. Sweet potatoes are high in fiber and gentle on a dog’s stomach, making them perfect for recovery.
Recipe 2: Soothing Pumpkin-Oat Bites
- Ingredients: ½ cup pumpkin purée, 1 cup rolled oats, 1 egg (optional for binding)
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients, form into small balls, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20 minutes. These bites are soft, easy to digest, and packed with nutrients.
Healthy Dog Treats Homemade Tip: Freeze extra treats for future use; they’ll stay fresh for up to two months.
5. Consider Adding Plain Yogurt
- For dogs who tolerate dairy, a small amount of plain, unsweetened yogurt can introduce healthy probiotics that help balance the gut. Yogurt contains natural cultures that are great for digestion.
Dog Health Tip: Stick to a spoonful or two of yogurt per meal, as too much can cause more stomach upset.
6. Introduce Raw Dog Food Carefully
- Some dog owners find that raw dog food can help improve digestion, but introducing raw food when your dog’s stomach is upset should be done with care.
- Begin with small amounts of raw foods like chicken or turkey, but make sure they’re of the highest quality and prepared safely.
Raw Dog Food Recipes Tip: Avoid fatty meats and stick to lean cuts. Introducing one protein at a time is best for monitoring tolerance.
7. Foods Dogs Can Eat for Ongoing Digestive Health
- For long-term digestive health, consider incorporating foods that offer a balance of nutrients and are gentle on the stomach. Here’s a list of easy-to-digest foods that are safe for most dogs:
- Carrots: High in fiber and gentle on digestion.
- Apples (without seeds): A great source of vitamins and fiber.
- Green beans: Low-calorie and full of fiber, they’re great for gut health.
- Bananas: Soothing on the stomach and full of potassium.
Dog Health Tip: Keep portions small, especially when introducing new foods.
8. Hydration Is Essential
- Dogs with stomach issues may lose more fluids, so keep water available at all times. Adding a small amount of bone broth or an ice cube of diluted apple juice can encourage them to drink more.
Dog Remedies Tip: If your dog refuses water, try offering them crushed ice—it can be more appealing and easier on an upset stomach.
9. When to Avoid Feeding
- Sometimes, it’s best to give your dog’s stomach a break. If they continue vomiting or show signs of distress, avoid feeding for 12-24 hours. This fasting period gives the stomach a chance to settle and heal.
Dog Health Tip: Always monitor your dog closely. If symptoms continue beyond a day or worsen, consult your veterinarian.
10. Ease Back Into Normal Foods Slowly
- Once your dog’s stomach settles, ease them back to their regular food over a few days by mixing small amounts of their regular food with the bland diet.
What to Feed Dogs Tip: Gradually increase the amount of regular food while reducing bland foods to avoid a sudden change.
Caring for a dog with an upset stomach is all about patience and gentle choices. By providing simple, soothing foods and focusing on hydration, you’re helping your dog recover quickly and comfortably. From easy homemade treats to bland meals, there are so many ways to bring comfort to your pup’s tummy troubles. When in doubt, trust your instincts, and always consult a vet if symptoms persist—your furry friend deserves the best!
