What Can I Give My Dog Naturally for Upset Stomach

It is quite common to know that dogs also suffer from gastrointestinal problems, which can be quite uncomfortable for both the pet and its owner. When faced with the question, what can I give my dog naturally for upset stomach? It’s important to address these issues naturally because natural remedies do not come with the side effects of medications and can help support overall health.

Some of the possible causes of upset stomachs in dogs include accidental ingestion of inappropriate foods, food intolerances, stress, bacterial or viral infections, and other diseases. Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and lethargy are signs to watch for and should be reported when identified in a pet. Understanding these causes and signs sets the stage for the natural ways to treat our dog’s upset stomach.

Knowing the Common Cause and the Signs

Dietary Indiscretion: Dogs are naturally curious and often explore their environment by tasting and eating things they shouldn’t. This can include garbage, table scraps, or other non-food items, which can irritate their stomach and lead to vomiting or diarrhea.

Food Allergies or Intolerances: Just like humans, dogs can develop allergies or intolerances to certain ingredients in their food. Common allergens for dogs include beef, dairy products, wheat, and chicken. Symptoms can range from gastrointestinal upset to skin issues.

Stress or Anxiety: Changes in routine, a new environment, or loud noises can stress dogs out. Stress affects the digestive system, causing symptoms like loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Infections or Parasites: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can upset a dog’s stomach. Common culprits include Giardia, roundworms, and parvovirus, which can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms.

Underlying Health Conditions: Chronic conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis, or kidney disease can lead to ongoing stomach issues. It’s essential to monitor your dog’s symptoms and consult a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms to Watch For:

Vomiting: Vomiting is a frequent indicator of digestive issues in dogs. It can be caused by a variety of factors including eating something inappropriate, food intolerances, or more serious conditions like infections or toxins. Observing the frequency and content of the vomit can provide clues about the underlying issue.

Diarrhea: Diarrhea often accompanies vomiting and can vary from mild to severe. It can result from dietary changes, stress, infections, or parasites. Persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it’s crucial to monitor your dog closely and ensure they stay hydrated.

Loss of Appetite: When a dog refuses to eat, it’s a clear indication that something is wrong. Loss of appetite can be a response to nausea, pain, or stress. If your dog skips more than one meal, it’s a sign that should not be ignored, especially if accompanied by other symptoms.

Lethargy: A dog that is unusually tired or less active than normal might be experiencing discomfort or illness. Lethargy can result from dehydration, pain, or a lack of nutrients due to vomiting and diarrhea. It’s important to provide a calm environment and observe for any additional symptoms.

Excessive Drooling or Lip-Smacking: These behaviors often indicate nausea. Dogs might drool excessively when they feel sick to their stomach or if they have ingested something irritating. Lip-smacking can be a precursor to vomiting or a sign of nausea.

Natural Remedies for an Upset Stomach

Fasting:

• Explanation: Fasting allows your dog’s digestive system to rest and recover from the irritation causing the upset stomach. It helps clear out any potential toxins or irritants.
• Duration: For small dogs and puppies, a 12-hour fast is typically sufficient. Larger dogs can fast for up to 24 hours. Always make sure they have ready access to fresh water.

Hydration:

• Importance: Keeping your dog hydrated is crucial, especially if they are vomiting or have diarrhea, which can quickly lead to dehydration.
• Tips: Encourage your dog to drink by offering small amounts of water frequently. You can also use ice cubes or offer broth to entice them to drink more.

Bland Diet:

• Boiled Chicken and Rice:

Recipe: Boil skinless, boneless chicken breast and plain white rice separately. Mix in a 1:2 ratio (one part chicken to two parts rice).
Instructions: Serve in small, frequent meals. Gradually reintroduce regular food after a day or two if symptoms improve.

• Pumpkin:

Benefits: Pumpkin is high in fiber, which helps regulate digestion and soothes the stomach.
Incorporation: Add 1-4 tablespoons of plain, canned pumpkin (not pie filling) to your dog’s regular food.

• Bone Broth:

Recipe: Simmer bones (chicken, beef, etc.) with water and a splash of apple cider vinegar for 24 hours. Strain and cool.
Benefits: Bone broth is nutrient-rich, easy to digest, and helps soothe the digestive tract.

Probiotics and Prebiotics:

• Explanation: Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria into the gut, aiding in digestion and restoring balance. Prebiotics serve as nourishment for these beneficial bacteria.
• Sources: Natural sources include plain, unsweetened yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables.

Herbal Remedies:

• Ginger:

Preparation: Grate a small amount of fresh ginger or use ginger powder.
Administration: Mix a pinch into your dog’s food or offer it as ginger tea by boiling slices in water and letting it cool.

• Chamomile:

Benefits: Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and calming properties.
Usage: Brew chamomile tea and let it cool. Offer a few teaspoons to your dog or mix with their water.

Apple Cider Vinegar:

• Dilution and Mixing: Dilute 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in your dog’s water bowl. This can help balance stomach pH and improve digestion.

Coconut Oil:

• Benefits: Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help soothe the stomach.
• Introduction: Start with a small amount, such as 1/4 teaspoon for small dogs and up to 1 teaspoon for large dogs, mixed into their food.

Preventative Measures

Diet Management:

Importance of a Balanced Diet:

• A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining your dog’s overall health and preventing digestive issues. It ensures that your dog receives the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to support their immune system, skin, coat, and internal organs.

Tips for Selecting High-Quality Dog Food:

• Look for dog food that lists a specific meat source (like chicken, beef, or lamb) as the first ingredient.
• Avoid foods with artificial preservatives, colors, and fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy.
• Choose foods that are appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and health status.
• Consider brands that offer grain-free options or limited-ingredient diets for dogs with food sensitivities.

Regular Feeding Schedule:

Benefits of Consistent Meal Times:

• Feeding your dog at the same time each day helps regulate their digestive system and metabolism. It also helps prevent overeating and obesity.
• A routine feeding schedule can reduce anxiety related to mealtime and ensure that your dog maintains a healthy weight and energy level.

Avoiding Table Scraps:

Potential Hazards of Human Food:

• Many human foods, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic, are toxic to dogs. Even foods that are not toxic can cause digestive upset or contribute to obesity.
• Table scraps can lead to poor eating habits, nutrient imbalances, and an increased risk of pancreatitis, a serious condition that affects the pancreas.

Routine Health Checks:

Importance of Regular Vet Visits:

• Routine veterinary visits are crucial for the early detection and prevention of health problems. Vets can identify potential problems before they become serious and provide guidance on diet, exercise, and overall care.
• Routine visits often include vaccinations, dental care, and screenings for common diseases, which contribute to your dog’s long-term health and well-being.

Implementing these preventative measures can help maintain your dog’s health and reduce the likelihood of digestive problems. By focusing on diet management, consistent feeding schedules, avoiding harmful human foods, and ensuring regular vet visits, you can support your dog’s overall well-being.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

While natural remedies can be very effective in treating mild stomach upsets, it’s important to recognize when it’s time to seek professional veterinary care. Persistent symptoms that don’t improve after a day or two, such as ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, are a red flag that something more serious might be going on. Signs of severe dehydration, such as sunken eyes, dry gums, and lethargy, require immediate attention to prevent further complications.

The presence of blood in your dog’s vomit or stool is always a cause for concern and should be evaluated by a vet as soon as possible. Unusual lethargy or signs of pain, like whimpering or reluctance to move, are also indicators that a vet visit is necessary to ensure your dog’s health and well-being. Knowing what can I give my dog naturally for upset stomach is essential, but understanding when professional help is needed is equally crucial.

Conclusion

In summary, knowing what can I give my dog naturally for upset stomach can make a significant difference in soothing your dog’s digestive discomfort. Natural remedies like fasting, hydration, bland diets, probiotics, and herbal treatments can effectively address mild stomach issues and promote better digestive health. Preventative measures, including proper diet management, consistent feeding schedules, avoiding table scraps, and regular vet visits, are key to maintaining your dog’s overall health and preventing future stomach issues.

Remember, while natural care is beneficial, knowing when to consult a vet is crucial to your dog’s well-being. If you have any experiences or questions about what can I give my dog naturally for upset stomach, feel free to share them in the comments below. Your insights could help fellow dog owners navigate similar challenges!

FAQ's

What natural remedies can I give my dog for an upset stomach?

You can give your dog a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice, pumpkin puree, or bone broth to soothe their stomach. Other natural remedies include ginger, chamomile tea, and probiotics like yogurt or kefir​.

How can I tell if my dog has an upset stomach?

Symptoms of an upset stomach in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, and excessive drooling or lip-smacking.

Is pumpkin good for a dog's upset stomach?

Yes, pumpkin is beneficial for a dog’s upset stomach. It is high in fiber and can help regulate digestion, alleviating both diarrhea and constipation.

Can I give my dog ginger for an upset stomach?

Ginger is an excellent natural remedy for soothing a dog’s upset stomach It helps with digestion and can alleviate nausea. You can add fresh or powdered ginger to your dog’s food or make ginger tea​.

How long should I withhold food if my dog has an upset stomach?

If your dog is vomiting or has diarrhea, it is often recommended to withhold food for about 12-24 hours to allow their stomach to settle. However, always ensure they have access to fresh water and consult with your vet before fasting your dog.

Can probiotics help my dog's upset stomach?

Probiotics can be very helpful in restoring healthy gut bacteria and improving digestion. Natural sources of probiotics for dogs include yogurt and kefir. There are also specific dog probiotic supplements available.

Is it safe to give my dog apple cider vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar can be used to help with your dog’s upset stomach by balancing pH levels and improving digestion. Mix a small amount (1 teaspoon for small dogs, 1 tablespoon for larger dogs) into their water or food.

What should I do if my dog's upset stomach persists?

If your dog’s symptoms persist for more than a day or two, or if they exhibit signs of severe dehydration, blood in vomit or stool, or unusual lethargy, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.