Is your dog experiencing tummy troubles? Loose stool, vomiting, and a general lack of appetite can be distressing for both you and your furry friend. Just like us, dogs can suffer from digestive upset for various reasons, from simply eating something they shouldn’t have to more complex underlying health conditions. Dietary indiscretion – that is, eating something they find on the street or raiding the garbage can – is a very common culprit. Food sensitivities can also cause digestive distress, as can stress, anxiety, or changes in their environment. While occasional stomach upset is usually nothing to worry about, persistent issues require the attention of a veterinarian to rule out more serious problems.
This article will outline the best foods to offer your dog when they’re experiencing digestive upset, helping to soothe their stomach and get them back on the road to recovery. We’ll also cover when a vet visit is crucial. It is important to remember that this information is for guidance only, and you should always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment, particularly if symptoms are severe or prolonged. This information should not be substituted for professional veterinary advice.
Understanding Dietary Needs During Digestive Upset
When your dog’s stomach is acting up, the goal is to give their digestive system a break. A bland diet, composed of easily digestible foods, is the cornerstone of managing canine digestive upset. Think of it as the equivalent of chicken soup and toast for humans. The primary reason bland diets work is that they are easier to process, requiring less effort from the already stressed digestive system. These types of diets are also less likely to trigger further irritation, allowing the stomach and intestines to rest and recover.
Key characteristics of soothing foods include digestibility, low fat content, and minimal ingredients. Highly digestible foods break down quickly, reducing the workload on the digestive tract. Low fat content is crucial because fat is more difficult to digest and can exacerbate nausea and diarrhea. Minimizing ingredients reduces the risk of further irritation caused by potential allergens or unfamiliar substances. Keeping the ingredient list short and simple makes it easier for your dog’s body to process what it’s eating and return to normal function.
Hydration is also incredibly important when your dog is experiencing digestive upset. Vomiting and diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, which can further complicate the situation. Ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend electrolyte solutions, such as unflavored Pedialyte, to help replenish lost fluids and minerals. Always consult with your veterinarian before administering any electrolyte solutions, as they can advise on the appropriate dosage and frequency.
Top Foods to Settle a Dog’s Stomach
Here are some of the best options when your furry friend is experiencing digestive problems:
Plain Boiled Chicken (Skinless, Boneless)
Plain boiled chicken is a classic choice for soothing a dog’s upset stomach. It’s an excellent source of highly digestible protein, which is essential for tissue repair and overall health. The key is to keep it plain. Avoid adding any seasonings, sauces, or oils, as these can further irritate the digestive system. Be sure to remove the skin and bones before feeding the chicken to your dog.
To prepare the chicken, simply boil it in water until it’s fully cooked. Shred the chicken into small, easily manageable pieces. Start with small portions, especially if your dog hasn’t eaten anything in a while. For a small dog, start with a few tablespoons; for a larger dog, you can offer up to a cup. Monitor your dog’s reaction and adjust the portion size accordingly.
White Rice (Overcooked)
White rice is another staple in bland diets for dogs with upset stomachs. It’s an easily digestible carbohydrate source that provides energy without putting too much strain on the digestive system. Overcooking the rice is essential, as it makes it even easier to digest. The extra moisture also helps to hydrate your dog.
When preparing the rice, use plain water and avoid adding any salt, butter, or other seasonings. Cook the rice until it’s very soft and mushy. You can then mix the rice with the boiled chicken for a more palatable and nutritionally balanced meal. White rice is preferred over brown rice in this situation because it contains less fiber, making it easier to digest.
Pumpkin (Plain, Pureed)
Pumpkin can be a surprising but effective remedy for canine digestive upset. Plain, pureed pumpkin is high in fiber, which can help with both diarrhea and constipation. The fiber in pumpkin acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in the gut and promoting a healthy digestive system. It also helps absorb excess water in the stool, which can alleviate diarrhea.
It’s crucial to use plain, pureed pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can further irritate your dog’s stomach. Look for pure pumpkin in a can or make your own by baking or steaming pumpkin and then pureeing it in a food processor. Dosage guidelines vary depending on the size of your dog. A small dog might need only a teaspoon, while a large dog could benefit from several tablespoons.
Bone Broth (Low Sodium)
Bone broth is a soothing and nutritious option for dogs with upset stomachs. It’s hydrating, contains electrolytes, and can be gentle on the gut. The gelatin in bone broth can help soothe and protect the lining of the digestive tract. However, it’s essential to use low-sodium bone broth, as high sodium levels can be harmful to dogs.
Read labels carefully or make your own bone broth at home to control the sodium content. Homemade bone broth involves simmering bones (beef, chicken, or turkey) in water for several hours. You can add a small amount of vegetables, such as carrots and celery, for added nutrients. Remove the bones before serving the broth to your dog. Store-bought bone broth is a convenient option, but always check the ingredient list to ensure it’s low in sodium and free of artificial additives.
Sweet Potato (Boiled or Baked, No Skin)
Similar to pumpkin, sweet potato provides a gentle source of fiber and carbohydrates. This can provide much needed energy without upsetting the digestive system. Be sure to boil or bake the sweet potato until soft and remove the skin, as the skin can be difficult to digest. It can be given on its own or mixed with some of the other options on this list.
Yogurt (Plain, Unsweetened, Probiotic)
Although some dogs don’t tolerate dairy, plain, unsweetened yogurt with live cultures can be a beneficial addition to a bland diet. Probiotics can help restore balance to the gut microbiome, especially after a bout of diarrhea or vomiting.
It’s important to note that not all dogs tolerate dairy well, so introduce yogurt gradually and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions. If your dog is lactose intolerant, consider alternative probiotic sources, such as supplements specifically formulated for dogs. The yogurt should be plain and unsweetened, as added sugars and artificial sweeteners can worsen digestive upset.
Commercial Bland Diet Foods (Prescription or Over-the-Counter)
For some dog owners, commercial bland diet foods are a convenient option. These foods are specifically formulated to be easily digestible and gentle on the stomach. They are available in both prescription and over-the-counter varieties. Prescription bland diet foods are typically recommended for dogs with more severe or chronic digestive issues, while over-the-counter options can be suitable for mild cases of upset stomach. Talk to your vet about whether prescription food may be more beneficial.
Feeding Guidelines: Transitioning and Monitoring
When introducing a bland diet, start with small and frequent meals. This approach helps prevent overwhelming the digestive system and allows it to gradually adjust to the new diet. Offer small portions every two to three hours, rather than large meals less frequently.
As your dog’s condition improves, gradually transition back to their regular food. Mix small amounts of the regular food with the bland diet, gradually increasing the proportion of regular food over several days. This helps prevent a recurrence of digestive upset.
Pay close attention to your dog’s stool and overall behavior. If the bland diet is working, you should see an improvement in their stool consistency, appetite, and energy level. However, if symptoms worsen or persist, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian. Watch for signs such as continued vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or abdominal pain. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires veterinary intervention.
A bland diet should be used as a short-term solution. Once your dog’s digestive system has recovered, gradually transition them back to their regular diet. Prolonged use of a bland diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies, as these diets are not typically balanced for long-term use unless they are vet prescribed.
When to See a Veterinarian
While a bland diet can be effective for managing mild cases of digestive upset, there are situations where a veterinarian’s intervention is crucial.
Seek immediate veterinary attention if your dog exhibits any of the following red flags: blood in stool or vomit, severe lethargy, persistent abdominal pain, inability to keep down food or water, or prolonged symptoms lasting more than twenty four hours. These signs could indicate a serious underlying condition that requires prompt treatment.
A veterinarian can perform diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your dog’s digestive upset. They can also rule out underlying medical conditions, such as infections, parasites, or inflammatory bowel disease. They can also check for foreign body obstructions or other serious conditions.
Prevention Tips
Preventing digestive upset in the first place is always the best approach. Here are some tips to help keep your dog’s digestive system healthy:
Feed your dog a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, breed, and activity level. Avoid feeding table scraps, as these can be difficult to digest and may contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Maintain a consistent feeding schedule, as irregular feeding times can disrupt the digestive system.
Prevent your dog from scavenging by keeping garbage cans secure and supervising them during outdoor activities. Teach your dog commands like “leave it” and “drop it” to prevent them from picking up and eating things they shouldn’t.
Minimize stress in your dog’s environment, as stress can trigger digestive upset. Provide them with a safe, comfortable, and predictable routine. Ensure they get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and anxiety.
Schedule regular veterinary checkups to ensure your dog’s overall health and detect any potential problems early. Your veterinarian can provide personalized recommendations for your dog’s diet and lifestyle to help prevent digestive upset.
Conclusion
Foods that settle dogs’ stomachs are valuable tools in managing canine digestive upset. Bland diets, composed of easily digestible foods like plain boiled chicken, white rice, and plain pumpkin, can help soothe the digestive system and promote recovery. However, remember that these diets are intended for short-term use and should be supplemented with regular veterinary care when needed.
This article is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you’re concerned about your dog’s digestive health, please consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action. A veterinarian can provide a proper diagnosis, recommend appropriate treatment, and help you develop a long-term plan to keep your dog’s digestive system healthy and happy.
