Dog upset stomach: causes, symptoms, and treatment options

One of the hardest parts of being a pet parent is dealing with a sick pup. And when they're dealing with diarrhoea and vomiting, it amps up the stress even more. We all have stories of our dogs eating stuff they shouldn't—like rubbish, toxic food and too much grass —resulting in gastrointestinal issues. These conditions often improve on their own, or get completely resolved by a veterinary procedure (like endoscopic removal). But sometimes, vomiting and diarrhoea can point to a a more serious or persistent health condition. While you might not be able to treat your dog on your own, you can arm yourself with knowledge about symptoms and take notes for your vet, which can help them with diagnosis and treatment. It's important to act fast, as you could also prevent more serious health issues from developing. Let’s explore what might be upsetting your dog’s stomach, how you can spot the signs before they become more severe, and some common treatments your vet might use. Common causes of upset stomach While some dogs seem to have stomachs of iron, most pups have delicate tummies, and sometimes even a small change can upset their digestive system. We'll dive into what might be causing their discomfort, from diet mishaps to more serious health concerns. Read on for some potential causes of diarrhoea and vomiting in dogs, according to veterinarian Kirsten Ronngren, DVM, MRCVS. Symptoms of an upset stomach Recognising the symptoms of an upset stomach can help your dog get the help they need, when they need it. Here are some warning signs so you can take quick action to comfort your bff: Once you start noticing symptoms, write them down, along with any information about recent dietary shifts or potential triggers. Your vet will need all of these details when they're diagnosing the cause of your dog's tummy troubles. How to treat upset stomach in dogs When your dog has an upset stomach, knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference (and could save your carpeting, too). We'll cover effective treatments and when it's time to call the vet for a little extra help. Home remedies: what helps a dog's upset stomach? Wondering if there's anything you can do to help your dog's stomach settle at home—or at least until you can get them into the vet's office? Temporarily feeding your pup boiled plain chicken, plain cooked white fish, or plain white rice can be easier on their tummy than their usual food. Ask your vet for advice first, because your dog could have allergies to these, which could make things worse. There are also OTC remedies that include things like probiotics , charcoal, and clay to help firm up stool, but you should only use these under your vet's supervision (and there are no guarantees they'll work). When to seek veterinary assistance You should seek professional help if diarrhoea persists for more than two days (according to Cornell's Canine Health Center ) or if your dog displays signs of severe distress, such as continuous vomiting, blood in their stool, or extreme lethargy. This could point to more serious issues. And of course, pay attention to your pet's vomit and diarrhoea consistency and write it down. Here's a helpful reference for vomit colours and what they could mean: Of course, in any instance where you're worried about your dog's behaviour or gastrointestinal upset, you should give your vet a call. Early intervention can be the key to a quick recovery. Veterinary examination and diagnosis When it comes to gastrointestinal issues in dogs, veterinarians take a thorough approach to diagnosis and treatment. There are just SO. MANY. POTENTIAL. CAUSES. Veterinarians will typically start with a detailed history to understand the possible causes of your dog’s symptoms. They will ask questions about: These questions help the vet pinpoint potential dietary issues, infections, or environmental factors that could be causing the upset stomach. Next, your vet will conduct a physical exam to check for: Depending on the initial assessment, your vet might order a range of diagnostic tests to further investigate the cause of the upset stomach. Here are some you might see on the chart: Based on the findings, treatment options might include: The bottom line? While your vet's just as concerned as you are about alleviating the immediate symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea (and stabilising your pup's condition), they're also super focused on figuring out the underlying causes. That way, they can help you prevent future episodes and make sure your dog's not dealing with an untreated underlying health condition. Prevention strategies Keeping your dog's stomach healthy is about more than just diet. Here are some preventive tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and keep your dog feeling their best! Feeding a balanced diet Feed your dog eats a balanced diet suitable for their age ( puppies have different nutritional needs than senior dogs ), health status, and activity level to prevent digestive problems. Just like humans, dogs can also suffer from allergies or intolerances to foods, which can upset their digestive system. Common culprits include beef, dairy , wheat, eggs, chicken, soy, and pork. If you need to switch your pup's food, make sure you do it gradually. Most food bags will include information about transitioning your dog from one food to another, but if you're not sure, ask your vet. Your vet can also advise you on how to perform a dietary trial if allergies are suspected. Avoiding table scraps and potential toxins Keep your dog away from table scraps and potentially toxic foods like chocolate , raisins , and onions . This can be easier said than done, particularly if your pup knows you're cooking for a Christmas party . In some cases, you might have to crate your pup or keep them gated in a separate safe room. (It's worth their potential protests for peace of mind.) Monitoring your dog's environment and stress levels Some pups are just a little more prone to anxiety. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to tummy troubles. But your dog's anxiety doesn't mean you need to resort to drastic measures. For instance, if your once-only-child dog is having tummy trouble thanks to some new-kid stress, there are plenty of ways to help them get along with your child before you have to consider rehoming them . There are lots of strategies for addressing separation anxiety . And if your pup seems to get diarrhoea every time your kid's friends come over, make sure they're not feeding them unsafe snacks, and maybe keep your pup in a separate calm space until the fun's over. Regular veterinary check-ups Navigating the signs of an upset stomach in your dog can be tough, but knowing the symptoms and potential causes can empower you as a pet owner. Remember, early intervention can prevent more serious complications. Always keep an eye on your dog’s behaviour and physical health, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet if you're concerned! And of course, in situations like these, dog insurance can help you take a load off (financially, at least). It's can help reimburse you for your pup's accidents and illnesses.

Dog upset stomach: causes, symptoms, and treatment options

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