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What to Give a Dog for Upset Stomach: Home Remedies That Work
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Most dogs suffer from an upset stomach at some point. The causes can vary from changes in diet, ingestion of poison or bad food, to underlying health conditions. In mild cases, a trip to the vet may not be necessary and that's where home treatment comes in.
The following home treatment options are tested and approved methods that can relieve your dog's upset stomach, provided it's not caused by something serious like poison. The treatments may be in the form of medication, treats, CBD oils, probiotics, or herbs. You should keep in mind that although these home alternatives work in many cases, they're not a substitute for visiting your vet, especially if the symptoms continue or become severe.
This article explores upset stomach home remedies. We show you the alternatives and explain why they work but let's first look at the causes.
Table of Content
Common Causes of Upset Stomach in Dogs Dietary indiscretion Food intolerances Sudden dietary changes Stress or anxiety Home Remedies for a Dog's Upset Stomach Bland diet (boiled chicken and rice) Pumpkin Bone broth Plain yogurt or probiotics Ginger Electrolyte replacement CBD oil When to Avoid Home Remedies and See a Vet Persistent vomiting or diarrhea Blood in vomit or stool Lethargy or dehydration Frequently Asked Questions Is it safe to give my dog human medication for an upset stomach? What should my dog avoid during recovery? Conclusion Products Featured In This Blog Related Readings
Common Causes of Upset Stomach in Dogs
An upset stomach is a common concern for dog owners. The helplessness you feel when a human loved one is unwell is just as intense when your canine companion is suffering. You want to do everything possible to alleviate their discomfort.
When your dog has an upset stomach, you'll probably notice these symptoms:
- Gas
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excess salivation
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Gurgling stomach sounds
The common causes of upset stomach in dogs are:
Dietary indiscretion
When your dog eats something that's not dog-friendly, the result will be stomach problems. This includes contaminated food from the trash, plants, poisonous substances, table scraps, and human food they shouldn't eat like garlic.
Food intolerances
Some dog breeds cannot tolerate certain foods. Some dogs are also allergic to certain foods, this can result in allergic reactions. When introducing new dog food, do it in small portions and look out for any symptoms of stomach issues immediately after eating the food.
Sudden dietary changes
Some dog's stomachs can't handle sudden dietary changes. When given new foods, they may experience diarrhea or abdominal discomfort.
When switching to a different dog food, do it gradually until your pup's stomach adjusts to the new food.
Stress or anxiety
When your furry friend is anxious or stressed, they may experience an upset stomach. In such cases, reassure your dog and try to eliminate the cause of the anxiety.
Home Remedies for a Dog's Upset Stomach
No pet parent wants to see their canine companion sick or suffering. Going to the vet isn’t always a trip you look forward to as it comes with its share of anxiety and expense. Many dog owners resort to home care especially if the symptoms aren’t severe.
Although these alternative methods work, before using any of these remedies, always consult your veterinarian via a quick call, especially if your dog is on medication for other health conditions. Also, keep an eye on the symptoms while administering the remedies. Sometimes the symptoms change from mild to severe and you may need to go to the vet for a proper diagnosis.
Home remedies are alternative methods to traditional veterinary medication. Some home remedies for your dog's upset stomach include:
Bland diet (boiled chicken and rice)
A bland diet is low in fat content and has no additional flavors and spices to irritate the gut. This makes digestion easy and reduces the risk of digestive issues. Also, rice absorbs water in the gut, reducing watery diarrhea.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin effectively addresses two common digestive issues in dogs: constipation and diarrhea, thanks to its fiber content.
- For constipation: Pumpkin speeds up digestion, helping your dog have regular bowel movements.
- For diarrhea: Conversely, it helps in slowing down digestion, providing relief for dogs with diarrhea.
Additionally, pumpkin boosts potassium levels, which can be beneficial as dogs often lose electrolytes when their stomach is upset.
When your dog has an upset stomach, avoid pumpkin pie mix and canned pumpkin as they're seasoned with spices and sugar. This may worsen your dog's condition resulting in loose stools.
Bone broth
Bone broth is a lifesaver for sick dogs. To make it, simmer some lean meat (bone-in) with a little apple cider vinegar and water in a crockpot overnight. The vinegar leaches nutrients from the bones. If you're in a hurry, make it in a pressure cooker. Strain it and serve small amounts every hour or so. This should help soothe your dog's upset tummy and replace lost nutrients and fluid.
Plain yogurt or probiotics
An upset stomach causes imbalances in your dog's gut and microbiome. Probiotics help rectify that imbalance by providing the gut with good bacteria thus maintaining a healthy flora.
Probiotics can be found in fermented food. Plain unflavored Greek yogurt is easily digestible and is also a good source of good bacteria for dogs.
Ginger
Ginger has been used for decades for its healing properties in both humans and animals. It is particularly good for digestive issues. Ginger in the form of tea will bring soothing relief to your dog's digestive system.
Electrolyte replacement
Dogs suffering from an upset stomach are often dehydrated from losing fluids through diarrhea and vomiting. To rehydrate them, they need to take in small amounts of water or bone broth frequently. However, sometimes their sick bodies don't absorb the water quickly and that's where Pedialyte or other electrolyte replacements come in.
Electrolyte replacements help keep your dog well-hydrated. Ensure the electrolyte replacement you use contains no added sugars or flavors – ask your vet to recommend one suitable for pets.
If you don't want to use commercial electrolyte replacements, unsweetened coconut water is a good natural electrolyte source.
CBD oil
Dog's diarrhea is a nightmare for pet parents. Happy-Furever™ CBD oil may help your dog's upset stomach. Studies indicate that CBD oil can enhance gastrointestinal motility by reducing inflammation and stimulating the muscles and enzymes needed for proper digestion. Additionally, CBD may help heal damaged intestinal barrier tissue, preventing leaky gut.
When to Avoid Home Remedies and See a Vet
Sometimes, even with the best home care, your dog's mild upset stomach symptoms may switch to being severe. In such scenarios, it's best to take your dog to see the vet.
Instances where you should avoid home treatment and see a vet include:
Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
If your dog's diarrhea or vomiting persists for more than 24 hours or changes from mild to severe, take them to the vet. The issue could be a serious underlying issue that needs professional diagnosis. Also, your dog may be dehydrated and require IV fluids.
Blood in vomit or stool
Blood in stool or vomit may be a sign of bacterial infections, a ruptured anal sac, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, stomach ulcers, cancer, IBD, and foreign bodies. Blood in vomit may look fresh, but can also look like coffee grounds.
Lethargy or dehydration
Although lethargy is a common sign of digestive issues, your dog needs immediate care if the lethargy or dehydration persists. Also, if the severe lethargy is accompanied by other symptoms like sunken eyes, weight loss, or dry gums, take your dog to the vet immediately. They can keep your dog hydrated via an IV line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to give my dog human medication for an upset stomach?
No. Human medications should be avoided at all costs. They may do more harm to the digestive tract than good. While some human medications like Imodium (loperamide) and Pepto-Bismol can be used, these should only be administered with the advice and guidance of the veterinarian.
What should my dog avoid during recovery?
If your dog has an upset stomach, they shouldn't eat grass or plants. These may be sprayed with chemicals which may worsen their condition. If you think your dog has ingested poisonous plants, call the nearest pet poison helpline. Also, avoid over-the-counter medications. Avoid rich foods and change your dog's diet to bland and simple while they recover.
Conclusion
Home medications are alternatives to traditional medicine that help alleviate discomfort. Some of these remedies are electrolytes, a bland diet, probiotics, ginger, and CBD oil.
When you use these remedies, ensure you keep an eye on your dog's symptoms. If they change from mild to severe, you'll need to take your dog to the vet immediately.
If your dog has other health conditions and is on medication, consult your veterinarian before administering any of these home remedies.
Dr. Kathryn Rosalie Dench
With nearly two decades of experience, Cambridge veterinarian Dr. Kathryn Dench is dedicated to enhancing animal health through holistic practices. A member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, she focuses on preventive care over traditional methods, particularly for long-term wellness solutions in pets suffering from anxiety and chronic conditions. As Chief Scientific Advisor at Paw Origins, she champions holistic strategies and education to revolutionize pet care practices.
Products Featured In This Blog
Related Readings
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The Entourage Effect:
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- In other words, the full spectrum of cannabinoids, including a safe level of THC (below 0.3%), terpenes, and other cannabis constituents, work together to bolster the beneficial effects on your dog's health.
Dog’s Endocannabinoid System:
- Dogs, like humans, have an endocannabinoid system (ECS). This complex network of receptors (CB1 and CB2 receptors) and endogenous chemicals is responsible for maintaining balance and healthy functioning within the body.
- It regulates and influences a variety of physiological processes including mood, appetite, pain sensation, and the immune system response.
How CBD Benefits Dogs:
- When CBD is introduced to a dog’s body, it interacts with the ECS, specifically the cannabinoid receptors. CBD influences them indirectly and increases the levels of endocannabinoids in the body. This can lead to various health benefits, such as:
- Reducing Anxiety: CBD has been shown to help reduce anxiety in dogs, which can be beneficial in various stressful situations like thunderstorms, fireworks, or separation from owners.
- Pain Relief : It can offer pain relief, particularly in cases of inflammation, arthritis, or neuropathy.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: CBD may help in reducing inflammation throughout the body, which is especially beneficial for dogs with inflammatory conditions.
- Supporting Neurological Health: CBD is also believed to provide neuroprotective effects, which can help senior dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome (similar to Alzheimer’s in humans) or help in managing seizures.
- Boosting Overall Wellness: By promoting homeostasis, CBD can generally enhance the overall well-being of dogs, supporting healthier joints, skin, and fur.
It's important to note that while Full-Spectrum CBD has potential benefits, it should be used responsibly and always start at a lower dosage before increasing with time, as dogs may be sensitive to oils in general. Always ensure the CBD product is of high quality and specifically formulated for pets to avoid harmful additives and ensure proper dosage (just like Happy-Furever, ensure there's a Certificate of Analysis).
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If you are considering adding CBD Happy-Furever™ to your dog's health regimen and they are currently on medication, while it's safe to do so, here are some considerations to keep in mind!
Complementary Use:
- CBD is not a prescription medication; it is a supplement. Many pet owners have found it beneficial to use CBD Happy-Furever™ alongside their dog’s existing medications.
- It is crucial, however, to understand that CBD should not be used as a substitute for prescribed medications unless specifically directed by a veterinarian. With that being said, you can undoubtedly use CBD to wean off the use of certain medications like anxiety medication or NSAIDs (painkillers/anti-inflammatory medication).
Veterinary Guidance:
- Not all veterinarians may be fully aware of the potential benefits of CBD as vets are not allowed to prescribe CBD Oil as it's not considered a prescription drug, and many vets would rather just adopt a 'do no harm' approach to protect their patients and their practice.
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CBD and Medication Interactions:
- Understanding the interaction of CBD with other medications is crucial. CBD is a known competitive inhibitor of the cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver, which metabolizes many pharmaceuticals.
- This means that if your dog is on medication, CBD could lead to the effect of 'potentiation', where the drugs become more effective, stronger, or last longer than intended.
- This can be beneficial as it allows for lower dosages, reduced side-effects and enhanced therapeutic outcomes due to the synergistic effects of CBD and medications.
Administration and Dosage:
- Always administer CBD separately from your dog's medications to avoid immediate interactions.
- This means giving them at different times of the day.
- Also, never consider CBD a complete replacement for traditional treatments, especially in urgent situations that require medical intervention.
To sum up, while CBD Happy-Furever™ can be a valuable addition to your dog's wellness routine, it is important to keep these considerations in mind, and should you want to approach your vet, always approach with the frame of taking responsibility so that they feel safe to advise you on how to proceed.
We have had many breakthroughs and case studies of dog owners using CBD Happy-Furever™ with their sick and ailing dogs that are on medication, and the transformations are amazing!
