As a dog owner, nothing is more upsetting than seeing your furry friend suffer from an upset stomach. Whether it’s caused by an underlying health condition or a sudden change in their diet, it’s important to find the right homemade dog food to help them feel better. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best homemade dog foods for upset stomach and how you can make them at home.
When it comes to soothing an upset stomach, boiled chicken and rice is a classic remedy that has been used for years. It’s gentle on the digestive system and easy to digest, making it an excellent choice for dogs with stomach issues. To make this dish, simply boil some boneless, skinless chicken breast and cook some rice until it’s soft. Mix them together and serve it to your dog.
2. Sweet Potato and Ground Turkey
Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for dogs with digestive issues. Combine this with some ground turkey for a protein boost, and you’ve got a nutritious meal that your dog will love. Cook the ground turkey in a pan and add some diced sweet potatoes until they are soft.
3. Pumpkin and Chicken Stew
Pumpkin is a natural source of fiber and can help soothe an upset stomach. It’s also low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great choice for dogs with weight management issues. To make a pumpkin and chicken stew, cook some boneless, skinless chicken breast in a pot and add some canned pumpkin. Simmer until the chicken is cooked and the pumpkin has thickened into a stew.
4. Beef and Vegetable Soup
If your dog is a fan of beef, then this homemade dog food recipe is perfect for them. Beef is a great source of protein and can help soothe an upset stomach, while vegetables like carrots and green beans provide a boost of nutrients. To make this soup, cook some beef in a pot and add some diced carrots and green beans. Simmer until the vegetables are soft and the beef is cooked through.
5. Salmon and Quinoa
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health. Quinoa is a great source of protein and fiber, making it an excellent choice for dogs with digestive issues. To make this dish, cook some salmon and quinoa separately and mix them together.
Cottage cheese is a low-fat protein source that is easy on the digestive system. When combined with brown rice, which is a great source of fiber, this homemade dog food can help soothe an upset stomach. Cook the brown rice until it’s soft and mix it with some cottage cheese.
7. Chicken and Carrot Soup
This homemade dog food recipe is a great source of vitamins and minerals that can help support your dog’s immune system. Cook some boneless, skinless chicken breast in a pot with diced carrots until they are soft. You can also add some brown rice or quinoa to the soup for added nutrition.
8. Oatmeal and Turkey
Oatmeal is a great source of fiber and can help soothe an upset stomach. When combined with lean ground turkey, this homemade dog food is a nutritious meal that can help support your dog’s digestive health. Cook the ground turkey in a pan and add some cooked oatmeal to it.
9. Lamb and Sweet Potato Stew
Lamb is a protein source that is easy on the digestive system, making it a great choice for dogs with upset stomachs. Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber and can help soothe the digestive system. To make this stew, cook some lamb in a pot and add some diced sweet potatoes until they are soft.
10. Venison and Green Bean Casserole
Venison is a lean protein source that can help support your dog’s digestive health. When combined with green beans, which are a great source of vitamins and minerals, this homemade dog food can provide your dog with a balanced meal that is gentle on their stomach. Cook some venison in a casserole dish with some green beans until they are soft.
Supplements to add to home-cooked food for dogs with upset stomach
There are various supplements you can add to their home-cooked food to soothe their stomach and promote better digestion.
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help to maintain a healthy balance of gut flora in your dog’s digestive system. They’re especially helpful in regulating bowel movements, reducing inflammation, and promoting healthy digestion. Adding a probiotic supplement to your dog’s home-cooked meals can help ease their upset stomach and improve their overall digestive health.
Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes are enzymes that help to break down food and convert it into essential nutrients that the body can absorb. When a dog is experiencing an upset stomach, their digestive enzymes may not be working correctly, leading to indigestion, bloating, and discomfort. Adding a digestive enzyme supplement to their meals can aid in the digestion process and help your dog absorb vital nutrients.
Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is a natural herb that’s been used for centuries to soothe digestive issues. It has a high mucilage content, which helps to coat the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and irritation. Adding a slippery elm supplement to your dog’s meals can help alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation.
Ginger
Ginger is an excellent natural remedy for dogs with upset stomachs. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and relieve nausea. Adding fresh or powdered ginger to your dog’s meals can help soothe their stomach and promote better digestion.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a popular herb that’s been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including digestive issues. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties that can help to ease stomach pain and reduce nausea. Adding a chamomile supplement to your dog’s meals can help soothe their upset stomach and promote better digestion.
Aloe vera is a plant that’s been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including digestive issues. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, reducing discomfort and promoting healthy digestion. Adding a small amount of aloe vera gel to your dog’s meals can help soothe their upset stomach and promote better digestion.
FAQs about homemade food for dogs with upset stomach
Here are some frequently asked questions about homemade dog food for upset stomach and vomiting.
Q: What should I give my dog for upset stomach and vomiting?
A: When your dog is experiencing digestive issues, it is best to stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods. Boiled chicken and rice is a popular choice as it is gentle on the stomach and provides the necessary nutrients. Other options include boiled ground beef or turkey, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin.
Q: Can I give my dog human food for upset stomach?
A: Yes, but with caution. Some human foods are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, garlic, onions, and grapes. It is also important to note that human food is not nutritionally balanced for dogs, so it should not make up the bulk of their diet.
Q: What are some vet-approved homemade dog food recipes?
A: There are plenty of vet-approved homemade dog food recipes that you can try. A simple one is chicken and rice, which involves boiling chicken and rice separately and mixing them together in a 2:1 ratio. Another option is boiled ground beef or turkey mixed with sweet potatoes and a small amount of pumpkin puree.
Q: What are some comfort foods for dogs with upset stomachs?
A: Just like humans, dogs also have comfort foods that can help soothe their upset stomachs. Some options include bone broth, plain yogurt, and boiled chicken or beef.
Q: Can I give my dog chicken and rice for upset stomach?
A: Yes, chicken and rice is a great option for dogs with upset stomachs. It is easy to digest, provides essential nutrients, and is gentle on the stomach. However, if your dog has a sensitivity to chicken, there are other alternatives you can try.
Q: What homemade dog food recipes are good for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
A: If your dog has a sensitive stomach, it is best to avoid ingredients that are known to cause digestive issues, such as chicken and grains. Instead, opt for recipes that include easily digestible proteins such as turkey, lamb, or fish. Some good options include boiled lamb and sweet potato or fish and potato.
Q: How can I make sure my homemade dog food is nutritionally balanced?
A: When making homemade dog food, it is important to ensure that it is nutritionally balanced. This means that it should contain the right amount of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. You can achieve this by consulting with your vet or a veterinary nutritionist, who can provide you with a recipe that meets your dog’s specific nutritional needs. You can also add a dog-specific multivitamin to their meals to ensure they are getting all the necessary nutrients.
Q: Is it safe to feed my dog raw food when they have an upset stomach?
A: Feeding your dog raw food during an upset stomach is not recommended as it can put them at risk for foodborne illnesses. Raw food can also be harder to digest and may worsen their symptoms. Stick to cooked, easily digestible foods until your dog’s stomach has settled.
Q: Can I add vegetables to my homemade dog food?
A: Yes, vegetables can be a great addition to your dog’s homemade food. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Some good options include sweet potatoes, green beans, peas, and carrots. However, be sure to avoid vegetables that are toxic to dogs, such as onions, garlic, and avocado.
Q: How often should I feed my dog homemade food for upset stomach?
A: The frequency of feeding your dog homemade food for upset stomach depends on the severity of their symptoms. If your dog has mild symptoms, you can switch to a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice for a few days. If their symptoms persist or worsen, you should consult with your vet. Once your dog’s stomach has settled, you can slowly introduce their regular food back into their diet.
Q: Can I store homemade dog food in the fridge or freezer?
A: Yes, you can store homemade dog food in the fridge or freezer. However, it is important to ensure that it is properly stored to avoid spoilage and foodborne illnesses. Store it in an airtight container and label it with the date it was made. If storing in the fridge, it should be consumed within three to four days. If storing in the freezer, it can be kept for up to three months.
Q: Are there any ingredients I should avoid when making homemade dog food for upset stomach?
A: Yes, there are certain ingredients that may exacerbate your dog’s upset stomach and should be avoided. These include fatty meats, spicy foods, dairy products, and processed foods. It is also important to avoid ingredients that your dog may be allergic to, such as chicken or grains. When in doubt, consult with your vet or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that the ingredients you are using are safe and appropriate for your dog.
Q: Can I use supplements to help my dog’s upset stomach?
A: Yes, there are several supplements that may help alleviate your dog’s upset stomach. Probiotics and digestive enzymes can aid in digestion and promote a healthy gut microbiome. Additionally, chamomile or ginger can be added to your dog’s food to help soothe their stomach. Be sure to consult with your vet before giving your dog any supplements, as they may interact with other medications or health conditions.
Q: Is it okay to add seasonings to my dog’s food?
A: No, it is not recommended to add seasonings to your dog’s food, especially if they have an upset stomach. Seasonings like salt, garlic, and onion powder can be harmful to dogs in large quantities and can worsen their symptoms. Stick to bland, unseasoned foods until your dog’s stomach has settled.
Q: Can I feed my dog a vegetarian or vegan diet?
A: While it is possible to feed your dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, it is important to ensure that their nutritional needs are being met. Dogs require certain nutrients that are typically found in animal products, such as protein, calcium, and vitamin B12. If you are considering a vegetarian or vegan diet for your dog, it is recommended to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that their nutritional needs are being met.
Q: How do I transition my dog back to their regular food after an upset stomach?
A: It is important to transition your dog back to their regular food slowly after an upset stomach to avoid causing further digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of their regular food into their bland diet and gradually increase the amount over the course of several days. If your dog experiences any symptoms during the transition, slow down the process or consult with your vet.
Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over a decade of practical animal husbandry experience, Hannah's articles cover everything from pet care to wildlife conservation. When she isn't creating content for blog posts, Hannah enjoys long walks with her Rottweiler cross Senna, reading fantasy novels and breeding aquarium shrimp.
