As any dog owner knows, the bond we share with our four-legged companions goes beyond simple companionship; they are precious members of our family. Like us, dogs can have health issues, and stomach upsets are a common problem that disrupts their happy behavior.
Watching our four-legged friends suffer from discomfort, inactivity and reduced appetite can be distressing, but fear not! With the right care, attention, and a little feeding know-how, we can help our beloved dogs regain their playful, rambunctious nature in no time.
In this blog post we look at how to care for our dogs during an episode of stomach upset. We’ll explore the best foods to offer them, foods that can work wonders to soothe their tummy troubles.
Reasons Your Dog May Have an Upset Stomach
Dogs’ digestive systems are complex and sensitive, and there are a variety of reasons why your dog may have an upset stomach. Let’s look at some of the most common reasons why your dog may have an upset stomach.
Dietary changes or digestive problems
One of the main reasons your dog may have an upset stomach is a sudden change in their diet or digestive issues. Dogs may have food allergies or intolerance to certain foods that can cause cramping, nausea, or diarrhea. Other digestive problems such as inflammatory bowel disease, parasitic infestation, or pancreatitis can cause stomach upset. They may be a sign of a more serious underlying problem.
Stress and anxiety
Just like us humans, dogs can also experience stress and anxiety, and this can also cause an upset stomach. Stressful situations such as separation anxiety or a change in environment can trigger your dog’s anxiety, making him feel uneasy and uncomfortable.
If you think your dog’s stomach upset is due to stress and anxiety, you need to talk to your veterinarian and find out what you can do to help him manage his emotions.
Bacterial or viral infection
Another reason your dog may have an upset stomach is due to a bacterial or viral infection. Dogs can get a stomach virus that can cause vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. It is essential to take your dog to the veterinarian if you suspect he has an infection to avoid any serious health problems in the future.
Eating something they shouldn’t have
Dogs are curious creatures; Sometimes they may eat things they shouldn’t, like toxic foods or foreign objects, causing an upset stomach. Dogs may also end up in trash cans or eat something they find on the ground, causing digestive issues.
If you see your dog eating something he shouldn’t have, it’s essential to intervene and take him to the vet if he shows symptoms.
Dehydration
Dehydration is another reason why your dog may have an upset stomach. Dogs should have access to clean, fresh water at all times, and if they don’t, they can suffer from dehydration, leading to vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy. It is essential to ensure that your dog drinks water regularly to avoid any health problems related to dehydration.
5 Best Foods to Give Your Dog for an Upset Stomach
Stomach upsets can be distressing for the dog, and we can easily detect them through various symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting and loss of appetite. While it can be alarming for dog owners to see our pets in pain, it could also be an opportunity to show our four-legged friends how much we love them. One way to do this is to provide him with the right foods to soothe his tummy and help him recover.
Let’s discuss some of the best foods for your dog for an upset stomach.
#1 Boiled chicken and rice
One of the most recommended foods for a sick dog is boiled chicken and rice. Chicken provides easily digestible protein and additional hydration. At the same time, rice acts as a source of energy and helps absorb excess stomach acid. To prepare, boil about half a pound of chicken with a cup of white rice and feed your dog in small portions throughout the day.
#2 Pumpkin
If your puppy is constipated, the best thing you can offer him is pumpkin. Pumpkin is rich in fiber, which helps regulate digestion and promote healthy bowel movements. As an added bonus, it can also help soothe an upset stomach. Make sure it is pure filling and not pumpkin pie. You can give your dog a few small spoonfuls mixed into his usual meal.
#3 Sweet potato
Sweet potato is very nutritious and can relieve a dog with an upset stomach. This vegetable is rich in soluble fiber, which can help soften stools and reduce inflammation. You can cook or boil sweet potato and offer it as a treat or mixed into your dog’s meal. Simply remove the skin, as it can be difficult to digest.
#4 Bone Broth
Bone broth is a great way to soothe your dog’s stomach while providing essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and glucosamine. Simmer the chicken or beef bones for a few hours to prepare the bone broth until the broth becomes gelatinous. You can then use it as a base for soups or pour it over your dog’s food to enhance the flavor.
#5 Plain yogurt
Plain yogurt is another food rich in probiotics that can aid digestion and strengthen the immune system. It is best to offer plain, unsweetened yogurt, as excess sugar can worsen stomach upset. You can add a tablespoon or two to your dog’s meal or offer it as a treat.
Stomach upset could be a cause for concern for us dog owners. However, we could help our four-legged friends recover by providing them with the best foods to soothe their bellies.
Always seek advice from a veterinarian before making any drastic changes to your dog’s diet and avoid feeding him human food which could harm his health. Showing your furry friend love and care by providing them with the right foods could ease their discomfort and show them how much they mean to you.