What Can I Give My Dog Naturally for an Upset Stomach? 10 Home Remedies
When your dog has an upset stomach, it can be distressing for both of you. Vomiting, diarrhea, or just a lack of appetite can all be signs that something isn’t sitting right in their belly. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that can help soothe your dog’s digestive system without resorting to harsh medications. In this guide, we’ll explore 10 natural remedies that can ease your dog’s upset stomach, along with practical advice on how to implement them safely.
Key Takeaways:
- What’s the best natural remedy for an upset stomach? Plain pumpkin is highly effective for soothing digestive issues in dogs.
- Can I give my dog probiotics? Yes, natural probiotics like plain yogurt can help balance your dog’s gut bacteria.
- Is fasting helpful for an upset stomach? Yes, fasting for 12–24 hours can allow your dog’s stomach to rest and recover.
- Are herbal teas safe for dogs? Chamomile and ginger teas, in small amounts, can calm stomach inflammation and nausea.
- Should I worry if the upset stomach persists? If symptoms last more than 48 hours, or are accompanied by severe vomiting or lethargy, consult your vet.
What’s the First Thing I Should Do When My Dog Has an Upset Stomach?
The first step when your dog has an upset stomach is to give their digestive system a rest by temporarily withholding food. Fasting for 12–24 hours is often recommended for dogs with mild digestive issues like vomiting or diarrhea, as it allows their stomach to settle without the added stress of processing food.
Here’s how to do it:
- For adult dogs, a fasting period of 12–24 hours is usually safe and can help reset their digestive system.
- For puppies, shorter fasts of 6–12 hours are recommended since they need more frequent nutrition.
During the fasting period, make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated.
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog refuses water or becomes dehydrated, try offering ice cubes to lick, as this may be more palatable and easier on an upset stomach.
Is Pumpkin a Good Remedy for a Dog’s Upset Stomach?
Yes, plain pumpkin is one of the best natural remedies for a dog’s upset stomach. Pumpkin is rich in fiber and can help regulate your dog’s digestive system, easing both diarrhea and constipation. The high fiber content absorbs excess water in the intestines, making it particularly effective for dogs with loose stools.
Dog’s Weight 🐕 | Amount of Pumpkin 🎃 |
---|---|
Small dogs (10–20 lbs) | 1–2 tablespoons |
Medium dogs (20–50 lbs) | 2–4 tablespoons |
Large dogs (50+ lbs) | 4–6 tablespoons |
Make sure to use plain, unsweetened canned pumpkin—not pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugars and spices that could further upset your dog’s stomach.
💡 Pro Tip: Add a small amount of plain pumpkin to your dog’s regular food once they are ready to eat again after fasting. It’s an easy way to support gut health and prevent future stomach upsets.
Can I Give My Dog Ginger for Nausea?
Yes, ginger is a natural remedy that can help ease nausea in dogs. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and is known for calming upset stomachs. It works by reducing nausea and aiding in digestion.
To give your dog ginger:
- Grate fresh ginger and mix a tiny pinch into their water or food.
- For larger dogs, you can add ¼ teaspoon of fresh ginger to their food.
- For small dogs, stick to a smaller amount—about a pinch or ⅛ teaspoon.
Be careful not to overdo it with ginger, as too much can have the opposite effect and upset their stomach further.
💡 Pro Tip: Brew a weak ginger tea and allow it to cool before offering it in small amounts. This can be particularly soothing for dogs experiencing nausea.
Can Probiotics Help with a Dog’s Upset Stomach?
Yes, probiotics can be highly beneficial for dogs with upset stomachs, as they help restore healthy gut bacteria. Natural sources of probiotics, like plain yogurt, are an easy way to introduce beneficial bacteria back into your dog’s system.
Dog’s Weight 🐕 | Amount of Plain Yogurt 🍶 |
---|---|
Small dogs (10–20 lbs) | 1 tablespoon |
Medium dogs (20–50 lbs) | 1–2 tablespoons |
Large dogs (50+ lbs) | 2–3 tablespoons |
Ensure you use plain, unsweetened yogurt with no added sugars or artificial sweeteners (like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs). Probiotics can help with both diarrhea and indigestion.
💡 Pro Tip: Look for yogurt with live and active cultures to provide the most probiotic benefits. Greek yogurt is a good option because it’s lower in lactose, which is easier on your dog’s stomach.
Should I Try Giving My Dog Chamomile Tea?
Chamomile tea is a natural remedy that can help soothe your dog’s upset stomach. Chamomile is known for its anti-inflammatory and calming properties, and can reduce gas, cramping, and discomfort. It’s also useful for dogs experiencing anxiety-related nausea.
To prepare chamomile tea for your dog:
- Brew chamomile tea and allow it to cool completely.
- Offer a few teaspoons (for small dogs) or up to ¼ cup (for larger dogs) once or twice a day.
- Ensure the tea is plain, with no added sweeteners or flavors.
💡 Pro Tip: Chamomile can also be applied topically to soothe irritated skin if your dog’s upset stomach is accompanied by vomiting that irritates the skin around their mouth.
Can Bone Broth Help Soothe My Dog’s Stomach?
Yes, bone broth is a gentle and nourishing remedy that can help soothe your dog’s upset stomach. Bone broth is easy to digest and provides essential nutrients, while also keeping your dog hydrated. It’s especially helpful for dogs who are reluctant to eat after fasting.
To make bone broth:
- Simmer bones (chicken, beef, or turkey) in water for several hours.
- Strain the broth to remove any bones or fat, and let it cool.
- Offer small amounts (1–2 tablespoons) every few hours, gradually increasing the amount if your dog tolerates it well.
💡 Pro Tip: You can freeze bone broth into ice cubes and offer these to your dog during fasting to keep them hydrated while giving their stomach a break.
Can I Give My Dog Fennel for Gas and Bloating?
Fennel is a natural digestive aid that can help with gas and bloating in dogs. It has carminative properties, meaning it helps expel gas from the digestive tract, reducing discomfort from bloating.
To give your dog fennel:
- Grind fennel seeds and sprinkle a small amount (⅛ teaspoon for small dogs, ¼ teaspoon for larger dogs) into their food.
- Alternatively, brew a weak fennel tea and let it cool, then offer it in small amounts.
💡 Pro Tip: Fennel not only helps with digestion but can also freshen your dog’s breath—a bonus if they’re experiencing nausea-induced bad breath.
How Do I Know If My Dog’s Upset Stomach Is Serious?
While most cases of an upset stomach resolve with home remedies, there are certain signs that indicate your dog may need veterinary attention. You should consult your vet if your dog’s upset stomach is accompanied by any of the following:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours
- Lethargy or weakness
- Blood in the vomit or stool
- Signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, excessive panting)
- Loss of appetite lasting more than a day
💡 Pro Tip: Always monitor your dog’s condition closely, especially if they are very young, old, or have underlying health conditions. If symptoms worsen, seek veterinary care immediately.
Final Thoughts: 10 Natural Remedies for a Dog’s Upset Stomach
Remedy | How It Helps 🐕 | How to Use 🥄 |
---|---|---|
Plain Pumpkin 🎃 | Eases diarrhea & constipation | 1–4 tablespoons, depending on size |
Ginger 🍃 | Reduces nausea | Grate fresh ginger, small amounts |
Plain Yogurt 🍶 | Adds probiotics | 1–3 tablespoons, plain & unsweetened |
Bone Broth 🍲 | Hydrates & nourishes | 1–2 tablespoons, homemade broth |
Chamomile Tea 🍵 | Soothes stomach | A few teaspoons, cooled chamomile |
Fennel Seeds 🌿 | Relieves gas | Sprinkle small amounts in food |
Cold Water 💧 | Prevents dehydration | Offer small sips of cool water |
Rice Water 🍚 | Calms digestive system | Boil rice, strain |
Comment 1: “Can I use honey to soothe my dog’s upset stomach?”
Yes, honey can be used in small amounts to help soothe a mild upset stomach in dogs, especially if the cause is related to throat irritation or minor indigestion. Honey has natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help reduce irritation in the stomach lining. It’s particularly helpful if your dog has been vomiting or has an inflamed throat due to excessive acid reflux. However, it’s not a cure-all for every stomach issue and should be used sparingly.
Here’s how to safely use honey for your dog:
- For small dogs, give about ¼ teaspoon of honey.
- For medium to large dogs, give ½ to 1 teaspoon.
- Ensure the honey is raw and unprocessed for maximum benefits.
💡 Pro Tip: While honey can be helpful, avoid using it if your dog has diabetes or weight issues, as honey contains natural sugars that can affect blood glucose levels.
Comment 2: “Is rice water really effective for calming a dog’s upset stomach?”
Yes, rice water is an excellent natural remedy to calm your dog’s upset stomach, particularly for issues like diarrhea or mild indigestion. Rice water is gentle on the stomach and helps firm up loose stools by soothing the gastrointestinal lining. The starch released from the rice provides a mild binding effect, helping to solidify stool without adding bulk, making it ideal for dogs experiencing diarrhea.
Here’s how to prepare rice water:
- Boil one cup of white rice in three to four cups of water for about 20 minutes.
- Strain out the rice, leaving the starchy water behind.
- Allow the rice water to cool and offer ¼ cup to ½ cup depending on your dog’s size.
💡 Pro Tip: Use white rice instead of brown rice, as it’s easier to digest and releases starch more effectively, making it better for an upset stomach.
Comment 3: “What if my dog refuses to drink or eat anything after an upset stomach?”
If your dog refuses to eat or drink after an upset stomach, it’s important to monitor them closely and ensure they don’t become dehydrated. Start by offering ice cubes or a small amount of chilled water, as some dogs may prefer licking ice when they feel nauseous. You can also try offering bone broth or rice water, which are both gentle on the stomach and provide hydration without overwhelming their system.
If your dog hasn’t eaten or drunk anything for more than 12–24 hours and shows signs of lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, consult your vet immediately. Prolonged refusal to drink can lead to dehydration, which requires prompt medical attention.
💡 Pro Tip: Try tempting your dog with small amounts of bland foods like boiled chicken or plain rice once they show interest in eating again, but start slowly to avoid overwhelming their stomach.
Comment 4: “Is it safe to give my dog activated charcoal for an upset stomach?”
Activated charcoal is sometimes used in veterinary medicine to treat poisoning or ingestion of toxins, but it’s not a standard remedy for a typical upset stomach. Activated charcoal works by binding to toxins in the digestive system, preventing absorption, and is often administered in cases of poisoning or when your dog ingests something harmful.
However, using activated charcoal without guidance from a vet can be risky, especially if your dog’s upset stomach is caused by something other than poisoning. It can also interfere with the absorption of medications or nutrients.
💡 Pro Tip: Only use activated charcoal under the guidance of a vet, and avoid using it as a home remedy for general digestive issues like vomiting or diarrhea unless a toxic substance is involved.
Comment 5: “How long should I wait before feeding my dog again after they’ve had an upset stomach?”
**After your dog has experienced an upset stomach, it’s usually recommended to wait at least *12–24 hours* before reintroducing food, especially if they’ve been vomiting or had diarrhea.** This gives their stomach time to settle and reduces the likelihood of further irritation. When reintroducing food, start with a bland diet of boiled chicken and plain rice or plain pumpkin.
Feed them small portions to begin with and monitor how they react. If there’s no recurrence of symptoms, you can gradually return to their regular diet over the next few days.
💡 Pro Tip: After fasting, give your dog smaller, more frequent meals (about ¼ of their usual portion) to ensure their stomach can handle the food without becoming overwhelmed.
Comment 6: “Can I give my dog coconut oil for an upset stomach?”
Coconut oil is often recommended for its digestive benefits, but it’s not the best remedy for an acute upset stomach. Coconut oil can help with digestion and overall gut health due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, in the case of an upset stomach, adding oil to your dog’s diet could potentially worsen diarrhea or nausea because fats can be harder to digest during digestive upset.
If you want to use coconut oil for long-term digestive health, introduce it slowly and in small amounts to prevent upsetting their stomach. For acute symptoms, stick with more gentle remedies like pumpkin or rice water.
💡 Pro Tip: For dogs that tolerate coconut oil well, try adding ¼ to 1 teaspoon to their food on a regular basis to promote gut health, but avoid using it during episodes of vomiting or diarrhea.
Comment 7: “Is there a safe herbal remedy for bloating and gas in dogs?”
Yes, fennel is a safe and effective herbal remedy for bloating and gas in dogs. Fennel seeds contain carminative properties, which help reduce gas and bloating by promoting the expulsion of gas from the digestive system. You can use ground fennel seeds or brew a weak fennel tea to ease your dog’s discomfort.
To administer fennel:
- For small dogs, sprinkle about ⅛ teaspoon of ground fennel seeds onto their food.
- For larger dogs, use up to ¼ teaspoon of ground fennel seeds.
- Alternatively, brew fennel tea and offer a few teaspoons after it has cooled.
💡 Pro Tip: Fennel can also help with bad breath caused by indigestion, so it’s a great all-natural solution for dogs with both gas and breath issues.
Comment 8: “How do I keep my dog hydrated if they’re vomiting and have diarrhea?”
Hydration is crucial when your dog is experiencing vomiting and diarrhea, and there are several ways to help them stay hydrated. Start by offering small amounts of cool water frequently. If your dog refuses water, you can try offering ice cubes or diluted bone broth to make the liquid more enticing and easier to consume. Pedialyte (unflavored) can also be given in small amounts to help restore lost electrolytes, but check with your vet for the proper dosage.
Be careful not to let your dog drink large amounts of water all at once, as this can further upset their stomach.
💡 Pro Tip: For dogs that refuse water, try soaking a small piece of bread or kibble in water to encourage them to eat and hydrate simultaneously.
Comment 9: “Is it okay to give my dog plain rice for an upset stomach?”
Yes, plain white rice is a safe and commonly recommended food for dogs with upset stomachs. White rice is bland, easy to digest, and helps firm up stools, making it a go-to remedy for diarrhea or vomiting. When your dog is ready to eat again, start with small portions of boiled white rice mixed with plain boiled chicken or pumpkin.
Dog’s Weight 🐕 | Amount of Rice 🍚 |
---|---|
Small dogs (10–20 lbs) | ¼ to ½ cup |
Medium dogs (20–50 lbs) | ½ to 1 cup |
Large dogs (50+ lbs) | 1–2 cups |
💡 Pro Tip: Make sure the rice is plain and unseasoned—no added oils, butter, or spices, as these can irritate your dog’s stomach further.
Comment 10: “What signs should I watch for if my dog’s upset stomach is getting worse?”
If your dog’s upset stomach is getting worse, you should watch for these critical signs that may require immediate veterinary attention:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours.
- Blood in vomit or stool, which could indicate internal bleeding or severe gastrointestinal distress.
- Lethargy or weakness, which may suggest dehydration or a more serious underlying issue.
- Severe abdominal pain or bloating, which could indicate conditions like bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) or an intestinal blockage.
- Refusal to drink water or signs of dehydration such as sunken eyes, dry gums, or excessive panting.
If any of these symptoms occur, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately, as these could be signs of a serious condition that requires prompt treatment.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on how often your dog vomits, has diarrhea, or refuses to eat. Documenting the symptoms can help your vet diagnose the issue more quickly if medical intervention is needed.
Comment 11: “Can I use peppermint to help with my dog’s upset stomach?”
Peppermint can be used to soothe an upset stomach in dogs, but it should be done cautiously and in very small amounts. Peppermint has antispasmodic properties, which can help relax the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing cramps, gas, and nausea. However, it’s important to use only pure peppermint leaves or peppermint tea—never peppermint essential oil, which can be toxic to dogs.
To administer peppermint safely:
- Brew a weak peppermint tea, let it cool, and offer your dog a few teaspoons to help relieve gas or stomach discomfort.
- Alternatively, mix ¼ teaspoon of finely chopped peppermint leaves into your dog’s food.
Be cautious with peppermint, as too much can upset your dog’s stomach further or interfere with digestion.
💡 Pro Tip: If using peppermint, always offer it in moderation and watch for any signs of discomfort or worsening symptoms. Avoid peppermint if your dog has GERD or acid reflux, as it can relax the esophagus and exacerbate these conditions.
Comment 12: “Is it safe to give my dog apple cider vinegar for their upset stomach?”
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is sometimes recommended as a digestive aid for dogs, but it should be used with caution, particularly when dealing with an upset stomach. ACV is highly acidic, and while it’s often touted for its health benefits, it can actually irritate the stomach lining if your dog is already experiencing nausea or vomiting.
If you want to try apple cider vinegar for digestive health, only use a very diluted amount:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar into your dog’s water or food. Ensure it’s well-diluted to reduce its acidity.
- Only use organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar, which retains beneficial enzymes and nutrients.
However, it’s important to remember that apple cider vinegar is not a remedy for acute stomach upset. It’s better suited for long-term digestive health or as a preventative, but in the case of vomiting or diarrhea, stick to milder remedies like pumpkin or rice water.
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog has ulcers or a sensitive stomach, avoid using apple cider vinegar, as the acidity can worsen these conditions. Always consult your vet before using ACV regularly.
Comment 13: “Should I be worried if my dog has diarrhea but no vomiting?”
Diarrhea without vomiting can still be concerning, but it may be less severe than cases involving both symptoms. Diarrhea alone is often the result of something minor, such as a dietary indiscretion (eating something they shouldn’t have), a mild food intolerance, or stress. However, persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration if left untreated, and it may also be a sign of an infection, parasites, or a more serious gastrointestinal condition.
If your dog has diarrhea but no vomiting, here’s what you can do:
- Start by withholding food for 12–24 hours to allow their digestive system to settle.
- Offer small amounts of plain white rice and boiled chicken once the diarrhea begins to subside.
- Make sure your dog is drinking water to stay hydrated.
Monitor the diarrhea closely. If it lasts longer than 48 hours, or if you notice blood in the stool, lethargy, or a significant change in behavior, it’s important to seek veterinary care.
💡 Pro Tip: To avoid dehydration during diarrhea episodes, you can offer your dog rice water or Pedialyte (unflavored) to maintain electrolyte balance.
Comment 14: “Can I give my dog bananas to help with an upset stomach?”
Yes, bananas are a safe and effective remedy for soothing an upset stomach in dogs. Bananas are rich in potassium, which can help replenish electrolytes lost through vomiting or diarrhea. They also contain fiber, which aids digestion by firming up stools and promoting healthy bowel movements.
To give your dog bananas:
- Mash ¼ to ½ of a ripe banana and mix it with their food, or offer it plain as a treat.
- For larger dogs, you can offer up to a whole banana, but start with smaller amounts to ensure they tolerate it well.
Bananas are a gentle food that can help with both diarrhea and constipation, making them a versatile option for dogs with digestive issues.
💡 Pro Tip: Bananas are also low in fat and easy to digest, making them a great treat for dogs with sensitive stomachs. However, avoid giving too much at once, as excessive banana intake can cause constipation.
Comment 15: “Is boiled chicken really the best food to give my dog after an upset stomach?”
Boiled chicken is one of the most recommended foods to give your dog after an upset stomach because it’s bland, easy to digest, and low in fat. When your dog’s stomach is recovering, it’s important to avoid rich, fatty foods that could aggravate their symptoms. Boiled chicken provides a gentle protein source without adding unnecessary strain on the digestive system.
To prepare boiled chicken:
- Boil boneless, skinless chicken breasts in water, without adding any seasoning or oil.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken into small pieces and mix it with plain white rice or pumpkin.
- Feed your dog small portions and gradually increase the amount as they recover.
💡 Pro Tip: Always ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked and unseasoned, as spices, oils, and even salt can irritate a dog’s stomach.
Comment 16: “How can I prevent future upset stomachs in my dog?”
Preventing future upset stomachs in dogs largely depends on identifying the cause of the initial issue and maintaining a consistent, balanced diet. Here are some key prevention tips:
- Avoid table scraps or rich foods, which can overwhelm your dog’s digestive system and lead to issues like pancreatitis or gastrointestinal upset.
- Introduce new foods gradually to avoid shocking their system. Any dietary change, including transitioning to new dog food or adding fresh ingredients, should be done slowly over a week.
- Provide probiotics regularly, either through plain yogurt or dog-specific supplements, to maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
- Ensure your dog doesn’t eat things they shouldn’t, whether it’s outdoor plants, garbage, or human food that’s toxic to them.
- Keep a consistent feeding schedule to regulate their digestion and avoid sudden hunger pangs or overeating.
💡 Pro Tip: Regular veterinary checkups are essential for spotting any underlying health issues that could lead to recurring upset stomachs. Routine health checks and a stable diet are the best preventive measures.
Comment 17: “Is it safe to give my dog rice water as a remedy, and how do I prepare it?”
Yes, rice water is a safe and effective remedy for soothing a dog’s upset stomach, especially when dealing with diarrhea. Rice water is essentially the starchy water left after cooking rice, and it works by calming the gastrointestinal tract while providing a gentle source of hydration and nutrients.
To prepare rice water:
- Boil one cup of white rice in three to four cups of water for about 20 minutes.
- Strain the rice, leaving behind the starchy water.
- Let the rice water cool to room temperature and offer ¼ to ½ cup to your dog, depending on their size.
Rice water is particularly useful when your dog isn’t ready for solid food but needs to be hydrated and soothed.
💡 Pro Tip: You can refrigerate the rice water for up to 48 hours and offer small amounts every few hours until your dog’s stomach begins to settle.
Comment 18: “What’s the best way to transition my dog back to their normal diet after an upset stomach?”
Transitioning your dog back to their normal diet after an upset stomach should be done gradually to avoid further digestive upset. Start by feeding a bland diet, such as boiled chicken and plain rice, in small portions. Once your dog tolerates this well without any vomiting or diarrhea, you can slowly begin mixing in their regular dog food.
Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- On day one, feed 75% bland food (chicken and rice) mixed with 25% regular food.
- On day two, increase the regular food to 50% and decrease the bland food to 50%.
- By day three, aim for 75% regular food and 25% bland food.
- By day four, your dog should be back to 100% regular food, provided there are no signs of stomach upset.
💡 Pro Tip: Always observe your dog’s reaction to each meal. If any signs of nausea, diarrhea, or discomfort return, go back to the bland diet and consult your vet.