GI upset—vomiting and/or diarrhea—is the single most common reason we see pets in the emergency room. It can sneak up fast, sometimes paired with low energy, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain. The good news? There are a few things you can do at home to help calm the storm before it turns into a full-blown emergency.
Signs Your Dog May Have a GI Issue
Here are a few symptoms to watch out for:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Lack of appetite
- Abdominal pain
First Step: A Simple, Bland Diet
When one of my own dogs shows any of these signs, the first thing I place I go isn’t the vet or even the medicine cabinet—it’s the kitchen- mix up a bland diet. Regular dog food, even “sensitive stomach” formulas, still contain a decent amount of fat, which can be hard on an already irritated gut. What your dog needs if they have an upset stomach is something super easy to digest; No oils, seasoning, or fat.
What Goes Into a Bland Diet?
Think gentle, whole-food ingredients. Plain protein, plain carbs. Here are some safe, gut-friendly options:
- Protein: Lean ground beef, moose, or venison (drain all the fat), Chicken or turkey, Eggs, Fish, Low-fat cottage cheese
- Carbohydrates: Rice (white, brown, or wild), Oatmeal, Cooked sweet potatoes, Whole wheat pasta
- Extras that help: Canned pumpkin , Pre and probiotic supplements
Stick to this bland diet for about 3–4 days. If your pup seems to be on the mend, start slowly reintroducing their regular food over the next few meals. Be sure to make the transition gradual—sudden diet changes can trigger the very symptoms you’re trying to fix.
What If the Bland Diet Doesn’t Work?
Sometimes, even with your best efforts, the GI upset sticks around. If the vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than 12–24 hours—or your dog starts getting worse at any point—it’s time to call the vet. Continued GI symptoms can lead to dehydration or be a sign of a more serious condition that needs medical intervention.
Your vet may want to run tests to rule out infections, obstructions, or other issues and might prescribe medication, fluids, or even recommend hospitalization depending on how sick your dog is. The upside? You’ll know you gave them the best shot at healing naturally before needing reinforcements.
Trust Your Gut (and Theirs)
No one knows your dog like you do. If something feels off or your pet isn’t bouncing back, it’s always better to be cautious and check in with your vet. A bland diet can be a great first step, but it’s not a cure-all.
