Pet Health

Upset Stomach in Dogs

If you've ever noticed your dog skipping meals, vomiting, or having loose stools, chances are they’re dealing with an upset stomach. Just like us, dogs have sensitive digestive systems. A sudden change in diet, a bug they picked up outside, or even stress can throw things off balance. The good news? Most cases of upset stomach in dogs are treatable with the right care and attention. But it’s also important to know when it’s more than just a temporary tummy ache.

Let’s walk through the signs, causes, treatment options, and how to best care for your furry friend when their stomach isn't feeling quite right.

Understanding the Signs

One of the most challenging things about an upset stomach is the sheer number of potential causes. Some are harmless and easy to fix, while others might point to something more serious beneath the surface.

Dogs are curious creatures. A lot of upset stomachs begin with something they ate—whether it was raiding the trash can, nibbling on plants in the backyard, or gobbling down too many rich treats. Sudden changes in their food or even sensitivities to specific ingredients can disrupt their digestion.

In other cases, infections—viral or bacterial—can sneak in from contaminated water, spoiled food, or interactions with other dogs. Parasites like worms and giardia are also common culprits, especially in puppies or rescue dogs.

Stress can’t be overlooked, either. Dogs are sensitive to change. Moving homes, separation anxiety, loud noises, or even your own mood can trigger digestive upset in certain pets.

And finally, chronic or serious issues like pancreatitis, kidney disease, or inflammatory bowel disease may present with ongoing stomach trouble. These need timely diagnosis and specific treatment plans.

What Could Be Causing Your Dog’s Digestive Discomfort?

Stress can’t be overlooked, either. Dogs are sensitive to change. Moving homes, separation anxiety, loud noises, or even your own mood can trigger digestive upset in certain pets.

What Happens at the Vet?

Bringing your dog to the vet for digestive issues usually starts with a conversation. Your vet will want to know when symptoms began, what your dog has eaten recently, and whether they’ve had access to anything unusual—like garbage, new treats, or unknown objects.

A physical exam follows. Your vet may gently palpate your dog’s abdomen to check for tenderness or bloating and assess hydration levels. If the issue appears mild and recent, they might recommend a watch-and-wait approach paired with a bland diet.

But if your dog shows signs of dehydration, weakness, or the issue has lingered beyond 24-48 hours, more in-depth testing may be needed. Stool samples help detect parasites. Bloodwork can flag inflammation or organ-related issues. Imaging, like X-rays or ultrasound, helps rule out foreign objects, tumors, or obstructions.

The goal is to get to the root of the problem—not just treat the symptoms.

Treatment

For simple, non-serious tummy upsets, treatment often begins at home under veterinary guidance. Your vet might suggest holding off food for 12 to 24 hours (always with access to fresh water) to allow the digestive system to rest. Once symptoms begin to subside, you can reintroduce food gradually—starting with something gentle like boiled chicken and plain rice.

In cases where vomiting or diarrhea is more intense, your vet might prescribe medications to stop nausea and reduce inflammation. Probiotics may be added to help rebalance gut flora. If parasites are involved, deworming treatment is essential.

For dogs suffering from more serious causes—like ingesting something toxic or blocking their intestines—treatment may be more aggressive. IV fluids, hospitalization, and even surgery could be required.

What’s important to remember is that the sooner you respond, the better your dog’s chances of a smooth and quick recovery.

Recovery and Long-Term Care

Once your dog starts feeling better, it’s tempting to go back to their regular diet and routine right away. But their digestive system needs time to regain its strength. Small, frequent meals of bland food over a few days help your dog ease back into normal digestion.

Watch your pet closely during this time. Are they drinking enough water? Is their stool normalizing? Are they acting like their usual self again? If symptoms reappear or new ones show up, call your vet.

Long-term care may involve reassessing your dog’s diet or habits. If your dog seems prone to sensitive digestion, you might want to look into specialized food formulated for gastrointestinal support. In some cases, managing stress, feeding at regular intervals, and avoiding table scraps can make a world of difference.

Prevention

You may not be able to stop every episode of stomach upset, but you can definitely reduce the chances.

One of the most effective things you can do is stick to a consistent, balanced diet that agrees with your dog. Avoid giving them human food, especially fatty, spicy, or sugary items. Keep trash bins secured and household toxins out of reach.

When introducing new treats or foods, do so gradually to give their digestive system time to adjust. Make sure your dog is up to date with deworming, and if your pet likes to snack on grass or unknown objects outside, consider supervised outdoor time.

Stress management also plays a role. Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and quality time with you help promote both emotional and physical wellness.

Conclusion

An upset stomach may seem like a minor issue at first glance, but for your dog, it can be a source of significant discomfort. Being observant, responsive, and proactive makes a huge difference in how your dog copes and recovers. Whether it’s a mild reaction to a new treat or a sign of something more serious, your attention and care are your dog’s first line of defense.

If you ever feel unsure about what’s going on with your pet’s tummy—or need help managing recurring issues—DCC Animal Hospital is here to support you with expert veterinary care and genuine compassion. Because at the end of the day, your dog’s well-being is always worth it.

FAQs

1. Can a dog’s upset stomach resolve on its own, or should I always go to the vet?

If your dog is otherwise healthy and only shows mild symptoms that clear within 24 hours, it may be okay to monitor at home with bland food and rest. However, if the symptoms persist, involve vomiting or diarrhea with blood, or your dog becomes lethargic or refuses water, seek veterinary care immediately.

2. Can I give my dog yogurt or milk to help their stomach?

While plain, unsweetened yogurt with live cultures may help some dogs by promoting gut health, not all dogs tolerate dairy well. Milk, in particular, can sometimes worsen symptoms. Always consult your vet before introducing anything new—especially during a bout of stomach upset.