Home Remedies to Soothe Your Dogs Upset Stomach Naturally
Dec 06,2024 | puaintapets
An upset stomach is a common issue for dogs and can be caused by various factors, such as dietary changes, eating something inappropriate, or mild gastrointestinal problems. While it's always best to consult your veterinarian, there are several safe home remedies that can help soothe your dog’s upset stomach.
What are the Common Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Disorders in Dogs?
Diarrhea
Feces are liquid and may be accompanied by a foul odor and may be mixed with mucus, blood and foam in later stages.
Vomiting
May occur with overfeeding or after ingestion of irritating substances.
Abdominal pain
Increased intestinal peristalsis or a thundering sound may be heard on abdominal auscultation, and the abdomen may appear tense.
Dehydration
Due to frequent diarrhea and vomiting, the dog may show signs of dehydration such as lack of skin elasticity and sunken eyes.
Fever
When infected with bacteria, the dog may have a mild or moderate fever.
Bloody stools
When there is bleeding in the small intestine, the feces may be dark green or black.
Loss of appetite
The dog may reduce food intake due to discomfort.
Behavioral changes
such as decreased vigor, lethargy or restlessness.
These symptoms can be a manifestation of a variety of gastrointestinal disorders including, but not limited to, gastroenteritis, parasitic infections, food intolerance, or other digestive disorders. If your dog exhibits one or more of these symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian for examination and treatment.
Also Read: Twisted Stomach in Dogs
Common Causes of Gastrointestinal Disturbances in Dogs
I. Dietary problems
Eating something that shouldn't be eaten: dogs may eat spoiled, toxic or indigestible food, which can irritate the stomach and cause discomfort.
Sudden change of dog food: Sudden change of dog food may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort in dogs, causing discomfort.
Overfeeding or irregular diet: Overfeeding or irregular eating schedule may lead to indigestion, which in turn causes gastrointestinal discomfort.
II. Environment and Lifestyle
Cold tummy: A dog's tummy that is exposed to cold air for a long period of time or sleeping on a cold floor may catch a cold and cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Stress or anxiety: Dogs can also feel stress and anxiety, and this emotional state may affect gastrointestinal function.
Changes in living environment: environmental changes such as moving or traveling outside may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort in dogs.
III Health Problems
Parasitic infection: Dogs infected with roundworms, hookworms, coccidia and other parasites may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Gastroenteritis: Gastroenteritis caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite and other symptoms.
Swallowed foreign objects: Dogs that swallow foreign objects, such as bones and toy fragments, may cut their intestines or cause obstruction, causing gastrointestinal discomfort.
Pancreatitis: Pancreatitis can cause severe pain in the upper abdomen and affect gastrointestinal function.
Colitis: colitis can lead to symptoms such as frequent bowel movements and feces with mucus and blood.
Other diseases: such as canine distemper, Canine parvovirus, kidney and liver disease may also accompany symptoms of gastrointestinal distress.
What Foods Help Relieve Gastrointestinal Discomfort in Dogs?
Foods to help relieve gastrointestinal upset in dogs
Carrots: carrots can neutralize stomach acid, promote peristalsis and strengthen the digestive system for dogs with diarrhea.
Pumpkin: Pumpkin has a mild stomach nourishing effect and its fiber is helpful for dogs with diarrhea and aids in intestinal digestion.
White rice: white rice can be used as a light food to help the intestines recover during your dog's diarrhea recovery.
Chicken: chicken is an easily digestible source of protein and is suitable for supplementing your dog after diarrhea.
Sweet potatoes: sweet potatoes are rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C, which can help regulate your dog's intestines, especially for dogs with diarrhea.
Banana: a moderate amount of banana can help the dog intestinal peristalsis, reduce constipation.
Cabbage: Cabbage is rich in crude fiber, which can promote digestion and improve immunity in dogs.
When your dog is suffering from gastrointestinal discomfort, you should temporarily stop feeding other foods and gradually introduce the above foods according to your dog's specific symptoms. If your dog's symptoms persist or worsen, you should consult your veterinarian promptly. It is also important to keep your dog well hydrated. It is best to consult a professional veterinarian before feeding any new food or adjusting the diet.
What Should I Give My Dog with Stomach Upset at Home?
Suggestions for home remedies
When your dog is experiencing gastrointestinal distress, the following home remedies can be used to alleviate the symptoms.
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Provide easily digestible food
Choose simple sources of protein, such as cooked chicken breast or turkey, and low-fat treats. Highly digestible carbohydrates, such as cooked white rice, can help rest your dog's gut.
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Moderate amounts of fiber
Moderate amounts of soluble fiber can help regulate your dog's intestinal function, but high-fiber foods should be avoided to prevent aggravating diarrhea.
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Hydration
Make sure your dog is adequately hydrated to prevent dehydration. Drinking water or ice cubes can be provided in small, frequent doses.
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Probiotics
Probiotics can help restore the amount of beneficial bacteria in the gut and promote digestion.
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Gentle Food Conditioning
Try offering mild foods such as pumpkin puree and carrot puree, which are rich in fiber and help with intestinal motility.
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Fasting
If your dog is experiencing frequent vomiting, you can fast for a short period of time under the guidance of your veterinarian to allow the gastrointestinal tract to rest.
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Gradually return to a normal diet
After your dog stops vomiting and diarrhea, you can gradually transition the diet back to normal to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort caused by a sudden change in food.
Please note that these suggestions apply to short-term home care. If your dog's symptoms persist or worsen, you should contact your veterinarian immediately for professional treatment. It is always best to consult your veterinarian before implementing any home remedies.
What Should I Do When My Dog's Gut Doesn't Adjust to New Food?
When your dog's gut doesn't adjust to new food, you can take the following steps to help them recover.
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Slowly transition the new food
Instead of changing all of your dog's food immediately, you should transition gradually. The usual recommended method is to mix the new food with the old food in increasing proportions over the course of a week, e.g. 25% of the new food on the first day, 50% on the second day, and so on, until the transition to the new food is complete.
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Offer foods that are easy to digest
During the transition period, offer cooked white rice and cooked skinless chicken, which are easier to digest and help reduce the burden on the stomach and intestines.
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Rehydrate
Gastrointestinal distress can lead to dehydration in dogs, so it's important to make sure they have plenty of fresh water intake. If your dog is reluctant to drink water, try offering ice cubes or diluted broth.
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Observe your dog's reactions
Throughout the transition period, closely observe your dog's bowel movements and appetite. If your dog shows signs of vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, temporarily stop the transition and consult your veterinarian.
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Avoid Forced Eating
If your dog refuses to eat, don't force them to eat new foods. Try adding some beef broth or chicken broth to the food for added appeal.
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Consult a Veterinarian
If your dog's symptoms persist or worsen, contact your veterinarian for professional advice and treatment.
Keep in mind that every dog is different and the above recommendations will need to be adapted to your dog's specific situation. Gentleness and patience are crucial when dealing with gastrointestinal upset.
FAQs
What medicine can I give dogs for an upset stomach?
When your dog has an upset stomach, it's essential to use safe, dog-specific medications and remedies. Always consult a veterinarian before giving your dog any medication, but here are some common options often recommended for mild digestive issues:
1. Pepto-Bismol (Bismuth Subsalicylate)
Pepto-Bismol can sometimes be given to dogs for mild stomach upset, diarrhea, or indigestion. However, it's critical to consult your vet for the proper dosage, as too much can cause issues.
- Dosage: Typically, 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight every 6–8 hours.
- Important: Avoid if your dog is allergic to aspirin, as Pepto contains salicylates.
2. Famotidine (Pepcid)
Famotidine can help reduce stomach acid and soothe gastrointestinal irritation, making it useful for dogs with mild gastritis or acid reflux.
- Dosage: 0.25 to 0.5 mg per pound of body weight, administered every 12–24 hours.
- Consult a Vet: Famotidine is generally safe but should be given under vet supervision, especially in dogs with kidney or liver issues.
3. Omeprazole (Prilosec)
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that helps reduce stomach acid. It's often prescribed for dogs with ulcers, acid reflux, or chronic gastritis.
- Dosage: 0.5 to 1 mg per pound of body weight, given once daily.
- Vet Approval: Always confirm dosage and suitability with your vet.
What can I put in my dog's water for an upset stomach?
I. Probiotic Preparations
- Principle
Probiotics help regulate the balance of flora in the intestinal tract of dogs. When the dog has stomach upset, it may be due to abnormal digestive function caused by intestinal flora disorder. Probiotics can increase the number of beneficial bacteria and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, thus improving the intestinal environment and alleviating the symptoms of stomach upset, such as vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite.
- Usage
Pour an appropriate amount of probiotic powder into your dog's water bowl according to the dosage requirements on the product instructions. Generally speaking, the dosage of common pet probiotics per packet is suitable for dogs of different weight ranges, e.g. small dogs may use half a packet at a time, medium-sized dogs 1 packet and so on.
II. Small amount of honey (if the dog is not allergic)
- Principle of action
Honey has a certain soothing and moisturizing effect. It can form a protective film on your dog's stomach and reduce the feeling of stomach irritation. At the same time, the sweet flavor of honey may attract dogs to drink water and keep their body water balance, which is also important for relieving stomach discomfort.
- Directions for use
Add a small spoonful (about 5 - 10 ml, adjust according to your dog's size) of honey to your dog's water bowl. However, be aware that some dogs may be allergic to honey, so if this is the first time you add it, watch your dog closely for any allergic reactions such as itchy skin and shortness of breath.
What human medicine can you give a dog for an upset stomach?
Human medications are not recommended for dogs to treat upset stomachs. Dogs have a different physiology than humans and may react differently to medications, and certain human medications may be toxic to dogs. If your dog is experiencing an upset stomach, it is best to consult your veterinarian and use medications designed specifically for dogs.
Conclusion
Home remedies can be a safe and effective way to treat mild cases of upset stomach in dogs. However, it’s important to monitor your dog closely and seek veterinary advice if symptoms persist or worsen. By using gentle remedies like a bland diet, probiotics, and natural calming agents like chamomile or ginger, you can help your dog recover quickly and feel comfortable again.
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