Best Foods to Feed Dogs With Upset Stomach: A Complete Guide

Dealing with a dog who has an upset stomach can be distressing for both the pet and the owner. When your furry friend is experiencing digestive issues like decreased appetite, upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting, knowing what foods to offer can make a significant difference in their recovery. While you might want to consult your veterinarian about over-the-counter treatments for stomach upset and diarrhea, implementing a bland diet can effectively address these symptoms while providing the essential nutrition your dog needs to get better.

It’s important to note that the dietary recommendations in this article are intended for dogs experiencing mild stomach upset symptoms, including gas, nausea, constipation, and diarrhea. Since these symptoms can sometimes indicate more serious health problems, always consult with your veterinarian before attempting to treat your dog at home. Only proceed with these dietary suggestions after ruling out other health concerns and discussing your plan with your vet.

Additionally, dogs with existing health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, allergies, as well as senior dogs, may have specific nutritional requirements that need to be considered when addressing digestive issues. Your veterinarian can provide guidance tailored to your dog’s unique health profile.

Signs of Upset Stomach in Dogs

Before diving into food solutions, it’s helpful to recognize the common signs that your dog might be experiencing stomach upset:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Excessive gas
• Gurgling sounds from the abdomen
• Licking lips or objects excessively (sign of nausea)
• Eating grass

If your dog shows any of these symptoms persistently or severely, contact your veterinarian immediately. For mild cases that your vet has determined can be managed at home, the following food options may help.

Five Foods for Dogs With Upset Stomachs

1. Chicken and Rice

Chicken and rice are staple ingredients in many commercial dog foods, and for good reason. This combination provides a gentle yet nutritious meal that sits well on upset canine stomachs. The mild nature of these foods makes them an excellent choice when your dog is experiencing digestive distress.

To prepare this meal, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts and rice. While brown rice has higher nutritional value, white rice is actually preferable in this situation because its blandness makes it more suitable for upset stomachs. Cook the rice according to package instructions, but without adding any butter, oils, or seasonings, as these can irritate your dog’s stomach further and potentially worsen the problem.

For the chicken, boil it thoroughly until completely cooked, then cut or shred it into small, bite-sized pieces. This is especially important as dogs might be so eager to eat this tasty meal that they could choke if the pieces are too large. Remember to keep the preparation simple – avoid adding any seasonings, onions, garlic, or other ingredients that might be harmful to dogs or irritate their digestive system.

If preparing homemade chicken and rice seems too time-consuming, you can also find pre-packaged chicken and rice meals specifically formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs at many pet stores.

2. Shredded Chicken

Plain, shredded chicken without the skin and bones is another excellent option for dogs with upset stomachs. This lean protein is gentle on the digestive system while providing essential nutrients your dog needs.

To prepare shredded chicken, boil boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs until thoroughly cooked. Once cooled, shred the meat into small, manageable pieces. As with the chicken and rice option, avoid adding any seasonings, oils, or additional ingredients that could potentially irritate your dog’s sensitive stomach.

Shredded chicken can be offered on its own as a light meal or mixed with a small amount of plain white rice if your dog needs something more substantial. This simple protein source can help provide nutrition when your dog isn’t feeling well enough to eat their regular food.

3. Pumpkin

Plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling, which contains spices and sugar) is a remarkable remedy for dogs experiencing digestive issues. This fiber-rich food can help regulate your dog’s bowel movements, making it beneficial for both diarrhea and constipation.

Pumpkin contains soluble fiber, which absorbs excess water in the digestive tract, helping to solidify loose stools. Conversely, it can also draw water into the digestive system, which can help alleviate constipation. This dual-action property makes pumpkin an excellent dietary addition for various digestive concerns.

For small dogs, start with a teaspoon of canned pumpkin mixed into their food. Medium to large breeds can handle a tablespoon or two. Always introduce pumpkin gradually and observe how your dog responds before increasing the amount.

Besides its digestive benefits, pumpkin is also rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as potassium and iron, providing additional nutritional support when your dog might not be eating their regular diet.

4. Bone Broth

Bone broth is a nutritious and easily digestible liquid that can provide hydration and nutrients to dogs with upset stomachs, particularly those who may be reluctant to eat solid foods or drink water. This gentle option can help prevent dehydration while supplying essential minerals and amino acids.

To make bone broth for your dog, simmer animal bones (chicken, beef, or turkey) in water for several hours until the nutrients are released into the broth. Remove all bones before serving, as they can pose a choking hazard. Let the broth cool and skim off any fat that rises to the top, as excess fat can exacerbate digestive issues.

You can serve bone broth on its own as a hydrating drink, freeze it into ice cubes for a soothing treat, or use it to moisten dry food or rice, making it more appealing to a dog with a decreased appetite.

Commercial bone broth products specifically made for dogs are also available if you prefer not to make it at home. Just be sure to check that they don’t contain onions, garlic, or excessive sodium, which could be harmful to your pet.

5. Baby Food

Stage II meat-based baby food can be a gentle, easily digestible option for dogs with upset stomachs. Varieties such as chicken, turkey, or lamb can provide protein without additives that might irritate the digestive system.

When selecting baby food for your dog, carefully check the ingredients list to ensure it doesn’t contain onions, garlic, or seasonings, which can be toxic to dogs. Look for products that contain only meat and water without additional ingredients.

Baby food’s smooth texture makes it particularly suitable for dogs who are having difficulty chewing or are reluctant to eat. It can be offered on its own or mixed with a small amount of plain rice for a more substantial meal.

This option should be used as a temporary solution rather than a long-term feeding strategy, as it doesn’t provide complete nutrition for dogs. However, it can be an excellent way to encourage eating and provide some nourishment during a brief period of digestive upset.

Understanding Digestive Sensitivities in Dogs

While the above foods can help manage an upset stomach, it’s important to understand what might be causing your dog’s digestive issues in the first place. Dog foods are formulated to be complete and balanced, containing a range of different nutrition sources including proteins, fats, grains, vitamins, minerals, and ingredients like vegetables and fruits. For some dogs, certain components of these nutrition sources can trigger sensitivities.

Common Causes of Sensitive Stomachs in Dogs:

• Protein source – Some dogs don’t digest certain types of protein well. If your dog regularly experiences digestive issues, your vet might recommend trying a food with a different protein source.
• Fiber source – Too much or too little fiber can cause digestive upset in dogs.
• Fat content – High-fat foods can be difficult for some dogs to digest properly.
• Vitamin and mineral balance – Inadequate or excessive levels of certain nutrients can contribute to digestive problems.
• Quality of ingredients – Lower-quality ingredients may be harder for some dogs to digest efficiently.

When to Contact Your Veterinarian

While mild digestive upsets can often be managed with dietary adjustments, certain symptoms warrant immediate veterinary attention:

• Severe or bloody diarrhea
• Repeated vomiting
• Signs of pain or discomfort
• Lethargy or depression
• Refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours
• Symptoms that persist despite dietary changes
• Known ingestion of a toxic substance or foreign object

These symptoms could indicate more serious conditions that require professional medical intervention. Never hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you’re concerned about your dog’s health.

Transitioning Back to Regular Food

Once your dog’s digestive issues have resolved and they’re feeling better, it’s important to transition back to their regular diet gradually. Abrupt changes in food can trigger new digestive problems, even in dogs who are otherwise healthy.

Start by mixing a small amount of their regular food with the bland diet you’ve been feeding them. Over the course of 5-7 days, gradually increase the proportion of regular food while decreasing the bland diet until they’re back to eating their normal food exclusively.

If your dog’s digestive issues return during this transition process, consult with your veterinarian. They might recommend a longer transition period or suggest trying a different type of food that might be gentler on your dog’s digestive system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long should I feed my dog a bland diet?

A: Most veterinarians recommend feeding a bland diet for 2-3 days after symptoms resolve. Always follow your vet’s specific recommendations, as some situations may require longer periods on a bland diet.

Q: Can I give my dog over-the-counter medications for upset stomach?

A: Never give your dog human medications without consulting your veterinarian first. Many human medications can be toxic to dogs or have different effects on canine physiology.

Q: Are eggs good for dogs with upset stomachs?

A: Fully cooked eggs can be a good option for dogs with upset stomachs as they’re a gentle source of protein. However, raw egg whites should be avoided as they can contribute to biotin deficiency.

Q: Can probiotics help dogs with digestive issues?

A: Canine-specific probiotics may be beneficial for dogs with digestive issues. Consult with your veterinarian about appropriate probiotic supplements designed specifically for dogs.

Q: Is chicken and rice better than commercial gastrointestinal diets?

A: Commercial gastrointestinal diets are generally preferable to homemade chicken and rice as they have specific feeding guidelines and contain ingredients specially designed to support digestive health. Your veterinarian can recommend an appropriate commercial option for your dog’s specific needs.

Remember that while dietary management can help alleviate mild digestive upset, persistent or severe symptoms always warrant veterinary attention. Your dog’s health and comfort are paramount, and professional guidance ensures they receive the most appropriate care for their specific situation.

Author

Anjali Sayee

 

Anjali is an Associate Editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience specializing in hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She has authored over 300 articles and offers expert advice on hair styling techniques, effective skin care routines, and tips for maintaining healthy hair and skin.

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