Remedies to Soothe Your Dog's Upset Stomach

Before we dive into the remedies, it's important to understand what causes an upset stomach in dogs. There can be various reasons why your dog might be experiencing digestive issues.

Common causes include dietary indiscretion, such as eating spoiled or unfamiliar food, gastrointestinal infections, food allergies or intolerances, changes in diet or routine, and even stress or anxiety.

When your dog has an upset stomach, they may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, bloating, and excessive gas. It's crucial to monitor your dog's symptoms and seek veterinary care if they persist or worsen.

• Abdominal discomfort: Dogs with an upset stomach may exhibit signs of discomfort, such as whining, restlessness, or a hunched posture.
  
  
• Bloating and excessive gas: Excessive gas and bloating are often associated with digestive issues in dogs. GDV, which stands for gastric dilatation and volvulus, is a condition that can be fatal and is more often observed in large dogs with deep chests, although it can affect any breed ( Williams, K. & Ernest Ward, E., 2024 ).
  
  If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to take action to alleviate your dog's discomfort and prevent any further complications.

One of the most effective home remedies is ginger. Ginger has long been known for its ability to calm an upset stomach in humans, and it works just as effectively for dogs. 

According to Haniadka, R., et al. (2013) , “Ginger has been shown to possess anti-emetic effects against various emetogenic stimuli, potentially helping to calm an upset stomach.”

To incorporate ginger into your dog's diet, add a small amount of grated fresh ginger to their meals. Alternatively, you can brew ginger tea by steeping fresh ginger in hot water, allowing it to cool, and then adding it to your dog's water bowl.

The soothing properties of ginger can help alleviate nausea, reduce inflammation, and promote better digestion in your furry friend.

Another home remedy to consider is feeding your dog small, frequent meals of bland food. Bland food options, such as boiled chicken and rice, can be easier for your dog to digest and help settle their upset stomach. It's important to avoid adding any spices, oils, or seasonings to the food, as these can further irritate your dog's digestive system.

Additionally, you can give your dog a small amount of plain yogurt. Yogurt contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the balance in your dog's gut. These probiotics promote better digestion and alleviate digestive issues. Make sure to choose plain, unsweetened yogurt without any artificial flavors or additives. 

The study of Ranasinghe, J., Ramasingfae, A., & Samitha, S. (2008) showed that live yogurt treatment is effective in controlling doxycycline-induced diarrhea in dogs.

Remember to consult with your veterinarian before trying any home remedies, as they can provide guidance tailored to your dog's specific needs.

In some cases, home remedies may not be enough to provide relief for your dog's upset stomach. If your dog's symptoms persist or worsen, it may be necessary to consider over-the-counter remedies under the guidance of your veterinarian.

One commonly used over-the-counter remedy is a digestive enzyme supplement. These supplements contain enzymes that aid in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients, helping to alleviate digestive issues. Digestive enzyme supplements can be particularly beneficial for dogs with chronic digestive problems or those with certain medical conditions that affect digestion.

Another over-the-counter option is a probiotic supplement specifically formulated for dogs. These supplements contain a blend of beneficial bacteria that can help restore your dog's gut balance. 

Probiotics promote better digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and strengthen your dog's immune system ( Benyacoub, J., et al., 2003 ). 

Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most suitable probiotic supplement for your dog's specific needs.

Always follow the recommended dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer or your veterinarian when using over-the-counter remedies. Remember that these remedies are not a substitute for proper veterinary care, and it's important to address any underlying health issues that may be causing your dog's upset stomach.

By following these diet and nutrition tips, you can help prevent an upset stomach in your dog and promote overall digestive health.

CBD oil has been known to help dogs with upset stomachs. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce stomach inflammation and ease your dog's upset stomach.

When choosing a CBD product for your dog, always choose the organic one, made of high-quality ingredients, specially formulated for dogs such as CBD Full-Spectrum Happy-Furever Oil .

It's important to consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog CBD oil to ensure it's safe for them and the appropriate dosage is given. Read “ CBD for your Dog's Upset Stomach ”

• Regular exercise: Regular physical activity helps stimulate digestion and keeps your dog's gut healthy. Make sure to provide daily exercise opportunities for your furry friend.
  
  
• Stress management: Minimize stress and anxiety in your dog's life by providing a safe and secure environment, positive reinforcement training, and plenty of mental stimulation.
  
  
• Regular veterinary check-ups: Regular wellness exams with your veterinarian can help detect any underlying health issues that may be affecting your dog's digestive system.
  
  
• Avoid toxins: Keep your dog away from toxic substances, such as household chemicals, certain plants, and human foods that can be harmful to dogs.
  
  
• Good hygiene practices: Practice good hygiene when handling your dog's food and water bowls, clean up after them promptly, and maintain a clean living environment to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.
  
  
• By implementing these additional tips, you can contribute to your dog's overall digestive health and well-being and prevent your dog's upset stomach.