I. Introduction
Dogs are beloved members of the family, and it’s understandable to feel worried when they don’t feel well. One of the most common issues veterinarians see in dogs is an upset stomach. There a number of reasons a dog may be experiencing this, including overeating, dietary changes, stress, or illness. It’s important to help your dog get relief when this happens.
This article aims to provide you with helpful information about what you can give a dog for an upset stomach. We’ll be discussing some of the different options that are available to help soothe your dog’s digestive issues.
II. Home Remedies for a Dog’s Upset Stomach
Home remedies can be an excellent first-line treatment option for a dog experiencing an upset stomach. There are a few different options that you can try:
Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin has a high fiber content and is easy on a dog’s digestive system. Dogs can have canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) added to their meals or given as a standalone treat. This can help ease both constipation and diarrhea.
Ginger
Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe a dog’s upset stomach. You can give your dog ginger in many different forms, including ginger tea or ginger chews. Be sure to give your dog small amounts of ginger, as too much can cause upset stomach or stomach pain.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are beneficial to the digestive system. They promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, which can help stabilize your dog’s stomach. You can purchase probiotics in the form of supplements or in certain brands of dog food. Just be sure to introduce probiotics gradually to your dog’s diet.
III. Medicines for a Dog’s Upset Stomach
Medications can also be useful for helping a dog with an upset stomach. Below are some different types of medications that might be recommended:
Antacids
Antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid, which can cause discomfort or pain. Common over-the-counter antacids for dogs include Maalox and Mylanta. Do not give antacids if your dog is vomiting, as it may slow down the process of expelling toxins.
H2 Blockers
H2 blockers help reduce the production of stomach acid, working similarly to antacids. These medications are available through a veterinarian prescription. Common H2 blockers are cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), and famotidine (Pepcid).
Prescription Medications
Your veterinarian may prescribe medication to ease your dog’s upset stomach, particularly if the stomach issues are severe or caused by more complex underlying issues. Commonly prescribed drugs include antibiotics, anti-emetic (anti-vomiting) drugs, and corticosteroids.
IV. Diet Changes for a Dog’s Upset Stomach
Adjusting a dog’s diet is a long-term option for treating or preventing future digestive issues. Here are some tips:
Small, Frequent Meals
Rather than feeding your dog one or two large meals a day, try feeding them small portions throughout the day. This will help avoid overeating or eating too quickly, which can cause indigestion or vomiting. Be sure to leave enough time between meals to ensure that your dog’s stomach has time to digest, typically two to three hours.
Bland Diet
A bland diet can help calm your dog’s digestive system. Boiled chicken and rice is a common option, although some pet owners also use boiled potatoes, sweet potatoes, and carrots. This diet is low in fat and easy to digest, making it helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Consult your veterinarian before introducing your dog to a new diet and how to do it correctly.
Specialized Diets
If your dog’s digestive issues are chronic or particularly severe, your veterinarian may recommend switching to a specialized diet. Common dog foods for sensitive stomachs often contain prebiotics and probiotics. With a vet’s guidance, hypoallergenic diets or novel protein diets that reduce the risk of food allergies may be necessary.
V. The Importance of Hydration for a Dog’s Upset Stomach
Severe vomiting or diarrhea can lead to dehydration in dogs. It is essential to ensure your dog is getting enough fluids during an upset stomach. Here are some tips:
Encourage Drinking
Encourage your dog to drink water or eat ice chips throughout the day. You may add a small amount of low sodium chicken broth to their drinking water to make it more appealing. You can also try incorporating a pet water fountain that keeps water cool and oxygenated.
Coconut Water
Coconut water has electrolytes like sodium and potassium, which can be helpful in maintaining hydration. However, it’s best to use coconut water as a supplementary drink and not as the sole source of hydration. Younger coconuts have more of an electrolyte content than the ones that have been stored for a long time, so fresh coconut water is best.
Electrolyte-enhanced Fluids
If your dog is severely dehydrated, an electrolyte-enhanced oral hydration solution can help replenish lost fluids more effectively than just water. This is particularly true if your dog is experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. You can purchase electrolyte-enhanced fluids from your veterinarian or at specialty pet stores.
VI. When to See the Vet for a Dog’s Upset Stomach
While home remedies can be a good first step, it’s important to recognize when a trip to the vet is necessary. Here are the warning signs:
Loss of Appetite
If your dog is refusing to eat or drink, it’s time to visit a veterinarian.
Vomiting
If your dog is vomiting frequently or uncontrollably, then it is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Diarrhea
If your dog’s diarrhea persists for more than two days, it should be evaluated by a vet.
Abdominal Bloating
If your dog’s abdomen is swollen or bloated, call a vet immediately. Bloating is a life-threatening condition that requires urgent veterinary attention.
Lethargy
If your dog is experiencing lethargy, such as a lack of energy and interest in engaging with their surroundings, seek veterinary care immediately.
VII. Prevention Tips to Avoid Future Upset Stomachs
Prevention is often the best medicine. Here are a few tips to help reduce the risk of an upset stomach:
Slow Transitions
Gradually introduce new foods, especially if your pet is transitioning to a new food or dog treat. This helps prevent sudden changes in dietary fiber content that can cause stomach issues.
Consistent Diets
Stick to a consistent feeding schedule and diet. Maintaining a consistent diet is particularly important for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Introducing a new diet or food too quickly can shock your dog’s system too much.
Minimize Table Scraps
Minimize feeding your dog table scraps. As good as some foods might be for humans, the same may not hold for dogs. Many foods are not suitable for dogs like chocolate, alcohol, grapes, raisins, onions, and avocados.
VIII. Conclusion
A dog with an upset stomach can be problematic because your pet may struggle to communicate what is happening to them. So, it is the responsibility of dog owners to understand what to do when their dog experiences tummy problems and help them ease their symptoms as quickly as possible. We hope this article provided you with helpful insights about what you can give a dog for upset stomachs. Remember, always talk to your vet before making any dietary and treatment changes.
By incorporating home remedies, medications, diet changes, hydration, and prevention tips, you can provide the necessary care and attention that your dog’s digestive system requires.