A dog's stomach gets upset from eating things they shouldn't (dietary indiscretion), sudden diet changes, food intolerances (like dairy, wheat), parasites, infections (bacterial/viral), stress, toxins, and underlying issues like pancreatitis, IBD, or organ disease, with symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or poor appetite, often requiring a vet visit if severe or persistent.
Dog Upset Stomach Treatment
You can feed small amounts of a homemade bland diet, such as boiled white-meat chicken and white rice with no salt, fat, or seasonings. You may also talk to your vet about feeding a commercial gastrointestinal diet, like Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Support.
Other Foods Harmful to Dogs
Dairy products can upset your dog's digestive system and cause diarrhea as well as food allergies. Ingestion of just a few macadamia nuts can cause weakness, paralysis and lack of coordination. Avocados contain persin, which can cause mild stomach upset in dogs.
Some causes of upset stomach in dogs include:
Tips for Calming Your Dog Naturally
The 3-3-3 rule for dogs is a guideline for the adjustment period after adoption, representing 3 days (overwhelmed/hiding), 3 weeks (settling in/testing boundaries), and 3 months (feeling at home/bonding) to help owners manage expectations and provide patience, routine, and a calm environment, understanding that anxiety is normal as they decompress from a stressful past. It's a framework for recognizing stress and fostering trust, not a rigid timeline, but it helps owners understand why a new dog might seem timid or act out initially.
Bland foods such as boiled, skinless chicken with white rice can soothe a dog's stomach. Another option is cooked lean hamburger with cooked pasta.
A mixture of equal parts boiled (white) rice, white potato or pasta noodles and any of the following proteins:
It's important to know what to expect as far as the resolution of upset stomach symptoms in dogs. If your dog is vomiting or not eating, do not go more than 24 hours without seeking care from your veterinarian. Diarrhea usually takes longer to resolve: 3-5 days is typical and should be improving over that time.
Vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhea (also with blood), lack of appetite, weight loss, and lethargy are the most common signs. Constipation and straining to defecate are more likely with colon or rectal cancers.
Scrambled eggs are a good option for dogs with diarrhea because they are easy to digest and packed full of protein. Dogs who have been vomiting or eating stool may not be able to handle the high-fat content but scrambled egg is one of the best options out there.
Heartworm disease is among the top silent killers of dogs and cats, and it's a slow and insidious disease which gradually incapacitates them. By the time pet owners notice the giveaway signs of this disease, serious damage may already have been caused.
Some experts recommend giving your dog a liquid diet (of bone broth) one day a week to ensure their digestive system is cleaned out and has the opportunity to regenerate and nourish itself.
The most common signs that a dog is experiencing gastroenteritis include:
Clear, non-caffeinated sodas such as 7-Up, Sprite or ginger ale. Diluted juices such as apple, grape, cherry or cranberry (avoid citrus juices) Clear soup broth or bouillon. Popsicles.
There's no single "number 1" healthiest dog food, as the best choice depends on your dog's age, breed, and health; however, look for foods meeting AAFCO standards (Association of American Feed Control Officials), with real meat as the first ingredient, and vet-recommended brands like Hill's Science Diet, Purina Pro Plan, and Royal Canin are often cited for balanced nutrition. Freshly prepared or raw diets can also be healthy but carry risks, so always consult your vet.
If your dog has a minor upset stomach, ensure that your dog doesn't become dehydrated. Dog dehydration can become serious quickly. After 24 hours without water, they can experience organ damage or failure. To avoid dehydration, give your sick dog small amounts of water at frequent intervals (every 2-3 hours is ideal).
Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol®) is commonly kept in medicine cabinets for digestive upset. Your veterinarian may recommend giving your dog this medication and can provide the appropriate dosing. Let your veterinarian know immediately if your dog vomits the bismuth subsalicylate.
Onion, garlic and chives are members of the Allium species of vegetables. Allium species can cause gastrointestinal irritation and red blood cell damage, which can lead to anemia (low red blood cells). Although cats are more susceptible, dogs are also at risk depending on the amount ingested.
The 90/10 rule for dogs means that 90% of their daily calories should come from a complete and balanced dog food, while only 10% should come from treats, chews, and table scraps, preventing weight gain and ensuring proper nutrition. This guideline helps owners manage treat portions, preventing unbalanced diets and health issues like obesity, joint problems, and diabetes, as treats can be surprisingly high in calories, even healthy ones.
Tuna and salmon that are salt-free and packed in water (not oil) are the best choices.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt contains active cultures that can help calm your dog's stomach when they have diarrhea. Cottage Cheese: This gut-soothing cheese is a good option to feed your dog when they are not feeling well.
If you're wondering whether scrambled eggs are a safe and yummy option for your furry friend who's feeling a little down in the dumps (literally), then wonder no more! Scrambled eggs can be a great option for dogs with diarrhoea because they're easy to digest and gentle on your dog's stomach.
Vomiting and diarrhea are perhaps the most noticeable signs of a gastrointestinal issue, but pet owners should also watch for symptoms such as decreased appetite, abdominal discomfort, excessive drooling, or changes in stool consistency and color.
Gastroenteritis in dogs could last as little as 24 hours, or symptoms or complications might persist for days or even weeks, depending on the cause.