How to Care for a Dog with a Stomach Upset: Step-by-Step Guide

Dogs are famously food-oriented, which sometimes means they overeat or consume things they shouldn’t, resulting in an upset stomach. While some cases need veterinary care, many mild stomach upsets can be managed safely at home with attentive care.

This guide will help you recognise the severity of your dog's stomach upset, provide you with step-by-step care instructions, and advise when it’s essential to consult your vet. Responsible pet ownership means understanding your canine’s health needs and acting accordingly.

1. Assessing the Severity and Vet Visits

Determining whether your dog's symptoms are serious enough to need veterinary attention is vital. Always err on the side of caution to protect your pet’s welfare.

• See the vet immediately if: You suspect your dog has ingested something toxic or poisonous. Toxicity can progress rapidly and requires prompt professional care.
• Your dog refuses to drink water for over 12 hours, shows signs of fever, shaking, trembling, or otherwise appears severely unwell or in distress.
• Unusual symptoms emerge such as pale gums suggestive of anaemia, skin rashes, blood present in stool, urine, or vomit, or if your dog already has pre-existing health conditions or is on medication.

If the upset stomach is mild—with symptoms like vomiting or diarrhoea but your dog remains alert, can drink water, and progressively improves within 48 hours—you can usually care for them at home. Monitor their condition diligently and do not hesitate to seek veterinary advice if symptoms worsen.

2. Initial Starvation Period

The first step in managing a mild stomach upset is a food fast to allow the stomach to settle. Remove all food for a period of 12 hours but continue to provide free access to fresh, clean water to prevent dehydration.

During this time, remain patient and understanding. Your dog cannot help vomiting or diarrhoea and should not be scolded. Watch closely for the need to go outside and encourage calm behaviour.

If vomiting or diarrhoea persists past 12 hours during fasting, or your dog’s condition deteriorates, contact your vet promptly for further guidance.

3. Reintroducing Food with a Bland Diet

After the fasting period, if vomiting has stopped or reduced significantly and your dog shows some appetite, introduce food cautiously.

Start with small amounts of bland, low-fat foods such as plain boiled chicken puppies (skinless and boneless) mixed with cooked brown rice. Wait approximately 30 minutes after feeding to see if your dog keeps the food down before offering more.

Commercial recovery diets formulated for dogs recovering from illness, like the Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d, are excellent options and can be obtained from your vet or ordered online.

Maintain small, frequent meals over a few days and gradually return to your dog’s normal diet as they tolerate the food better. Avoid fatty, spicy, or table scraps during recovery.

4. Hydration and Fluid Support

Keeping your dog hydrated is crucial, especially if they have been vomiting or suffering diarrhoea. Offer small amounts of water frequently throughout the day to reduce dehydration risk.

If your dog is reluctant to drink, consider offering ice cubes, diluted honey water (1 tablespoon of honey in 1 cup of cooled water), or bone broth, which can be soothing and encourage fluid intake safely.

Persistent signs of dehydration such as dry gums, sunken eyes, or lethargy require immediate veterinary attention.

5. Monitoring Progress and Avoiding Long-Term Unbalanced Diets

Observe your dog closely for signs of improvement: reduced vomiting and diarrhoea, increased interest in food and water, and returning energy levels.

Bland diets are intended for short-term support only. Long-term feeding without proper nutritional balance may cause deficiencies. If your dog has ongoing digestive issues or dietary sensitivities, consult a veterinary nutritionist for tailored advice.

6. When to Contact Your Vet Again

If symptoms have not improved within 24-48 hours, or your dog’s condition deteriorates—such as continuous vomiting, diarrhoea, severe lethargy, or abdominal pain—seek veterinary care promptly.

Follow your vet’s recommendations carefully and maintain a supportive environment for your dog’s full recovery.

Common Questions About Dog Stomach Upsets

Can you give dogs Calpol for stomach upset?

Quick Answer: Calpol (paracetamol) is not safe for dogs and should never be given without veterinary approval as it can be toxic.

Many dog owners wonder if common human pain relievers like Calpol can be used to treat their dogs’ stomach discomfort. It is important to never administer Calpol or any paracetamol-based medication to dogs as their livers cannot metabolise it safely, potentially causing serious harm. Instead, consult your vet for appropriate medications or treatments.

How long should you withhold food from a dog with diarrhoea?

Quick Answer: Withhold food for about 12 hours but always provide access to water to avoid dehydration.

Fasting your dog for 12 hours allows the gastrointestinal tract to rest and recover from irritation. However, water must always be available as dehydration is a major risk. After fasting, return to feeding bland diet in small amounts as per guidance above.