Introduction

As dog owners, we know how troubling it can be when our furry friends aren’t feeling well. An upset stomach in dogs is a common issue that can arise for various reasons—whether from a new food, a sudden change in diet, or even stress.

While occasional stomach upset is usually temporary, it’s important to recognize the signs early and know how to help your dog feel better. In this guide, we’ll go over how to manage your dog’s upset stomach, what to do to ease their discomfort, and when to seek veterinary care.

Symptoms of an Upset Stomach in Dogs

Recognizing the signs of an upset stomach in your dog early on can help you take the right steps to ease their discomfort. While symptoms can vary depending on the cause, here are some common signs that your dog may be dealing with a stomach issue:

1. Vomiting: The most obvious sign of an upset stomach is vomiting. If your dog vomits once or twice but appears otherwise normal, it might be due to something minor, like eating too quickly or a slight dietary indiscretion. However, persistent vomiting or vomiting with bile or food material may indicate a more serious issue.
   
   

2. Diarrhea: Loose or watery stool is another common symptom of an upset stomach. Like vomiting, occasional diarrhea is usually not a cause for concern, but if it persists or contains blood, it could point to an infection, parasite, or another underlying health condition.
   
   

3. Lack of Appetite: If your dog refuses to eat or shows little interest in food, it could be a sign that they are not feeling well. This could be due to nausea, discomfort, or an overall lack of energy from the stomach upset. When your dog is feeling under the weather, it’s essential to offer food that’s gentle on their stomach.
   
   

SHMUSH! Breakfast Biscuits, packed with natural antioxidants, can help stimulate your dog’s appetite with their delicious and easy-to-digest ingredients. A mild, nutritious option might be just what your dog needs to get back to feeling like themselves again.

4. Excessive Drooling: Dogs with an upset stomach may produce more saliva than usual. This is often a response to nausea, and your dog might drool excessively even if they are not vomiting.
   
   

5. Lethargy: If your dog is unusually tired, not interested in playing, or lacks their usual energy, it might be due to the discomfort caused by an upset stomach. While some fatigue is normal after illness, prolonged lethargy may require a vet’s attention.
   
   

6. Abdominal Discomfort or Bloating: Dogs may exhibit signs of stomach pain by whining, panting, or adopting a hunched posture. Some dogs may even appear to be guarding their belly or trying to lie down in ways that suggest abdominal discomfort.
   
   

7. Gurgling or Rumbling Sounds: If your dog’s stomach is making audible gurgling sounds, it could be a sign of gas or indigestion. While occasional stomach rumbling is normal, frequent sounds accompanied by discomfort might indicate something is wrong.
   

Understanding the Causes of an Upset Stomach

Dogs can develop an upset stomach for many reasons. The most common causes include:

• Dietary indiscretion: Dogs are known for scavenging and eating things they shouldn’t, like trash or spoiled food, which can irritate their stomach.

• Food allergies or sensitivities: Some dogs may have a sensitivity to certain ingredients in their food, leading to digestive issues.

• Stress: Just like humans, dogs can experience stress from changes in their environment, routine, or the presence of new animals or people.

• Infections or parasites: Bacterial or viral infections, or the presence of parasites like worms, can also cause gastrointestinal upset.

• Health conditions: Underlying health conditions such as pancreatitis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can cause chronic stomach issues.

Recognizing the signs of an upset stomach, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, or excessive drooling, will help you determine how serious the situation may be and guide your next steps.

Steps to Help Your Dog Recover from an Upset Stomach

An upset stomach can be uncomfortable for your dog, but with the right care and attention, most dogs recover quickly at home. By following a few key steps, you can help ease their discomfort, support their digestion, and ensure they stay hydrated. Here are the essential steps to take when your dog has an upset stomach.

Step 1: Monitor Symptoms and Hydration

It’s important to keep a close eye on your dog’s symptoms to determine the severity of the upset stomach. Common signs to watch for include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite. If vomiting or diarrhea persists for more than a day, or if you notice blood, it's essential to consult your vet. Ensure your dog stays hydrated by encouraging water intake. If they aren't drinking, offer ice cubes or an electrolyte solution.

Hydration is essential when your dog has an upset stomach. Vomiting and diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, so it’s important to encourage your dog to drink water. You can also offer ice cubes or a small amount of electrolyte solution designed for pets to help rehydrate them. If your dog isn’t drinking, try offering water with a syringe (without a needle) or consult your vet for advice.

Step 2: Offer a Bland Diet

Once you’ve monitored your dog’s symptoms and ensured they’re staying hydrated, the next step is to offer a bland diet. A bland diet is gentle on your dog’s stomach and allows their digestive system to rest and recover. You can prepare a bland diet by combining the following:

• Boiled chicken (no skin, no bones)

• Plain white rice

The ratio should be approximately two parts rice to one part chicken.
This mixture is easy to digest and can help soothe an upset stomach. SHMUSH! Breakfast Biscuits are another great addition to this diet. Packed with wholesome ingredients like blueberries, blackberries, and moringa leaf, they provide natural antioxidants and a gentle boost to your dog’s digestive system, making them an ideal choice when your dog is recovering from an upset stomach. Offering these biscuits in small amounts ensures that your dog gets the right amount of nourishment without overloading their system.

Step 3: Use Digestive Aids or Probiotics

If your dog’s upset stomach is a recurring issue, it may help to incorporate digestive aids or probiotics into their routine. Digestive aids can help improve your dog’s digestive system and soothe discomfort.

• Probiotics: These are beneficial bacteria that help balance your dog’s gut flora. Probiotics can be particularly helpful after your dog has had antibiotics or has been dealing with a gastrointestinal upset. You can find probiotics specifically formulated for dogs at most pet stores or from your vet.

• Bone Broth: Offering some bone broth (without onions, garlic, or other harmful ingredients) can provide hydration and soothing nutrients.

For a quick and delicious source of nourishment, SHMUSH! Bedtime Biscuits are also packed with immunity-boosting ingredients like colostrum, quinoa, and barley grass. These can be especially beneficial at night to help strengthen your dog’s immunity, ensuring a faster recovery and better overall health.

Step 4: Monitor and Limit Stress

As mentioned earlier, stress can contribute to a dog’s upset stomach. Ensuring your dog feels calm and safe is an essential part of their recovery. Here are some tips for reducing stress:

• Maintain a consistent routine: Dogs love routine, and changes in their environment or schedule can cause stress. Keeping their feeding and walk times consistent can help.

• Provide a quiet space: If your dog seems anxious, create a quiet, comfortable space where they can relax and recuperate.

• Avoid new foods or treats: Stick with what your dog knows during their recovery. Introducing new foods or treats can exacerbate an upset stomach.

Step 5: When to Call the Vet

Most cases of upset stomach in dogs are mild and can be managed at home. However, there are certain signs that warrant a trip to the vet:

• Vomiting or diarrhea for more than 24 hours

• Presence of blood in vomit or stool

• Severe lethargy or weakness

• Refusal to drink water for more than 24 hours

• Signs of pain or discomfort (whining, hunched posture, etc.)

• Rapid breathing or drooling excessively

If your dog is showing any of these signs, contact your vet immediately. A vet may need to run tests, provide medications, or offer other treatments to help your dog recover.

Preventing an Upset Stomach in Dogs

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of your dog experiencing an upset stomach, there are several steps you can take to reduce the chances:

• Maintain a Consistent Diet: Sudden changes in your dog’s food can cause digestive distress. Keep their meals consistent and gradually transition to new foods if necessary to avoid upsetting their stomach.

• Avoid Table Scraps: Resist the urge to give your dog table scraps or foods that aren’t part of their regular diet. Some human foods can be harmful to dogs, and even small amounts can upset their stomach.

• Control Stress: Stress can contribute to digestive issues in dogs. Keep their environment calm, stick to a routine, and provide a comfortable, secure space for rest.

• Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity promotes healthy digestion and can help prevent stomach issues. Make sure your dog gets enough exercise suited to their breed and age.

• Choose Quality Treats: Opt for high-quality, easily digestible treats. Treats like SHMUSH! Breakfast Biscuits and SHMUSH! Bedtime Biscuits are packed with natural antioxidants and immune-boosting ingredients; these treats can support your dog’s digestive health, making them less prone to stomach upset.

By following these preventative measures, you can help keep your dog’s digestive system healthy and minimize the chances of an upset stomach.

6 Home Remedies for a Dog’s Upset Stomach

While it’s important to consult your vet for severe cases, there are several home remedies that may help soothe your dog’s upset stomach:

1. Bland Diet
 Feed your dog a mixture of boiled chicken (no skin or bones) and plain white rice. This gentle diet can help ease digestion.

2. Pumpkin Puree
 A small amount of plain canned pumpkin (not spiced) can help firm up stool and settle your dog’s stomach.

3. Bone Broth
 Bone broth is a great way to hydrate your dog and soothe their digestive system. Avoid any broth with onions or garlic.

4. Slippery Elm
 Slippery elm can calm stomach irritation. Use powdered form and sprinkle it over food, following the proper dosage.

5. Ginger
 A small amount of ginger can help reduce nausea. You can add fresh or powdered ginger to your dog’s food.

6. Probiotics
Probiotics, like plain yogurt, can restore healthy gut bacteria and support digestion during recovery.

These remedies can help with mild stomach issues, but if symptoms last more than 24 hours, contact your vet.

Conclusion

An upset stomach in dogs is a common issue, but with the right care, most dogs can recover quickly. By monitoring symptoms, offering a bland diet, and ensuring hydration, you can help your dog feel better at home. For persistent or severe cases, don’t hesitate to consult with your vet. Remember, a healthy stomach leads to a happier, more energetic dog!

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