The 8 Most Common Causes of an Upset Stomach in Dogs

Although our pups cannot communicate with us vocally, as pet parents we can look at a few different signs to know that our pup is experiencing some tummy troubles.

Key indicators that your pup is experiencing stomach issues include: passing gas, vomiting, eating grass, or having diarrhea. The first thing that comes to mind when you notice these issues is wondering what may have caused them.

While there could be many causes of an upset stomach for a dog, below is a list of the 8 most common causes:

1. Dietary Indiscretions (like eating trash)

Eating something that they shouldn't have is one major cause for upset stomachs in dogs. Just like children, dogs seem to eat everything they deem edible. This can be dangerous because they will sometimes ingest items that can be toxic or can cause choking. If your pup is experiencing stomach aches because they have eaten a foreign object or food that is toxic to dogs, please call your vet immediately or an emergency pet clinic.

2. Transitioning to a New Food

Another factor that could be affecting your pup's system is eating a new food. It is always recommended that you transition your pup onto new food so that you do not upset their stomach. Their gut flora (bacteria that lives in the intestinal system of pets and humans) is accustomed to certain foods going in and can sometimes be thrown off balance with the introduction of a new food. By allowing your dog a transition period, it gives their system time to adjust. When switching over to Grandma Lucy's we recommend a transition period that looks something like this:

The first two-three days feed 25% Grandma Lucy's and 75% older food.

The next two-three days feed 50% Grandma Lucy's and 50% older food.

By the fifth or sixth day, you should be able to feed 100% Grandma Lucy's

If your pup is experiencing trouble with a switch in food, you can always slow down their transition to help them adjust. Always remember that every dog is different and may need a different adjustment period!

3. Stress

Stress caused by new environments, separation anxiety, or other factors could be a key factor in your dog’s tummy troubles. If your dog experiences separation anxiety or is frightful in new environments, carry an item that they are familiar with such as a blanket, a favorite toy, or even a shirt worn by you.

4. Infectious Diseases or Pathogens

Young puppies are especially vulnerable to infectious diseases, particularly viruses like Parvovirus, which can be life-threatening due to their underdeveloped immune systems. If your puppy is experiencing an upset stomach, including symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting, it’s crucial to schedule a vet visit as soon as possible. However, dogs of all ages can suffer from gastrointestinal infections, whether bacterial, viral, or even fungal, depending on their environment.

Additionally, intestinal parasites in dogs, such as worms, coccidia, or Giardia, are common causes of digestive issues. While most parasites are treatable, if left unchecked, they can lead to more severe health problems. Early detection and treatment are key to keeping your dog's digestive system healthy.

5. Inflammatory Conditions

Some dogs may experience food allergies, sensitivities, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), all of which can contribute to an upset tummy in dogs. The exact causes of these conditions aren’t always clear, and diagnosing them often requires a feeding trial with a limited-ingredient diet. Once a diagnosis is made, managing these digestive issues typically involves a carefully controlled diet, along with supplements or medications to help alleviate symptoms and maintain gut health.

Another common cause of an upset stomach in dogs is pancreatitis, which occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed. This organ plays a vital role in digestion and blood sugar regulation, and pancreatitis is often triggered by consuming fatty foods, particularly table scraps. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, and in severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary for IV fluids, electrolyte support, pain management, and medications. If pancreatitis is recurrent or severe, it can lead to long-term issues such as diabetes and chronic digestive disorders, making proper diet and care essential for prevention.

6. Toxin Ingestion

Certain foods, like chocolate, as well as household chemicals, toxic plants, and other harmful substances, can lead to gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. In addition to causing digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea, many of these toxins can have more serious effects on a dog's body, including tremors, abnormal heart rate, or even life-threatening complications.

Human medications are another common cause of stomach problems in dogs. Some drugs, even those prescribed to pets—such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications—can have side effects like diarrhea, vomiting, or stomach ulcers. To prevent accidental poisoning or digestive distress, it’s essential to keep all medications and potential toxins out of your dog's reach and consult a veterinarian before giving any new treatments.

7. Digestive Conditions

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), also known as bloat, is a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, trapping gas inside and causing severe stomach pain in dogs. This leads to stomach expansion, internal bleeding, tissue damage, and shock, often proving fatal without immediate treatment. Symptoms include unproductive retching, a swollen and painful abdomen, excessive panting, and restlessness. GDV progresses rapidly, sometimes within hours, making emergency surgery essential to reposition the stomach and prevent recurrence through gastropexy.

8. Intestinal Blockage

Intestinal blockages in dogs occur when something obstructs food movement through the digestive tract. While causes can include tumors, hernias, or intestinal issues like intussusception, the most common culprit is swallowing an indigestible object, known as a foreign body. Items like socks, toys, rocks, corn cobs, and household objects can lead to serious indigestion and digestive distress.

Blockages can be life-threatening, preventing food and water from passing, causing severe vomiting, dehydration, and even intestinal rupture. Surgery is often required to remove the obstruction and repair any damage. Breeds like Labrador Retrievers, known for their strong chewing instincts, are more prone to this condition. To prevent blockages, supervise dogs with chewable items, secure trash cans, and keep small objects out of reach.

9. Underlying Health Conditions

Certain diseases outside the digestive system can lead to a dog to have an upset tummy, causing vomiting, diarrhea, or other symptoms. Conditions like Addison’s disease, diabetes complications, or kidney and liver problems can all impact digestion. Treatment depends on the specific illness and may involve medication, dietary changes, or other supportive care.

Cancer can also trigger digestive issues in dogs, either as a tumor within the gastrointestinal tract or as a systemic condition affecting digestion. Even cancers elsewhere in the body, such as mast cell tumors, can increase stomach acidity and cause discomfort. Treatment typically includes cancer-specific therapies along with supportive care to manage symptoms and improve a dog’s quality of life.

What to Do for a Dog with an Upset Stomach

When your furry friend is experiencing digestive discomfort, knowing how to settle a dog's stomach is crucial. Here are several key strategies to soothe your pet's upset stomach:

1. Bland Diet: A Digestive Rescue Plan

How do I soothe my pet's upset stomach? A bland diet is often the top recommendation. Plain, lean chicken and rice can help your dog's digestive system rebalance. Veterinarians frequently suggest this approach to treat a dog's upset stomach. Consider options like:

Grandma Lucy's Simple Replacement is a great way to introduce a bland meal for your dog. It's made with USDA white boneless chicken meat and rice. It is freeze-dried to provide convenience and has an 18-month shelf life. Simply add boiling water and let it sit for 10 minutes until cool. Feed it to your pup in small increments as they may not want to eat at all.

Single-ingredient Chicken Singles dog treats are minimally processed and gentle on a dog’s tummy. Serve right out the bag, or hydrate with a little water.

Homemade chicken and rice meals

2. Hydration and Rest

What can you give your dog for an upset tummy? First and foremost, ensure:

Plenty of fresh water is always available

Your dog gets adequate rest to support recovery

3. Fasting

Withholding food for a short period (up to 24 hours maximum) can help the digestive tract recover. However, this method is not safe for all dogs, especially:

Puppies

Small breeds

Dogs with specific health conditions

4. Probiotics and Digestive Support

Consider adding pet-formulated probiotics like Top It to support digestive health. Filled with wholesome, superfood ingredients, this food topper can provide your pet with a nutritional boost to their meal, as well as added hydration.

Preventing Upset Stomachs in Dogs:

Ensuring your dog's digestive health is possible through eliminating household dangers, and making sure they are eating the nutritious food. Providing a high-quality, well-balanced diet is key to preventing digestive issues. Hydration is equally important, especially in warmer temperatures, as water supports overall digestion, not just thirst.

Grandma Lucy's Artisan recipes are ideal for managing a dog’s upset stomach and supporting canine digestive health. These carefully developed recipes are designed to help dogs with sensitive tummies, utilizing high-quality, whole food ingredients that are minimally processed to retain maximum nutritional value. By focusing on natural, wholesome components, such as gently-cooked proteins, Artisan recipes aim to provide dogs with a diet that supports optimal digestion, especially for those struggling with a dog upset tummy.

For pet owners seeking targeted relief for sensitive tummies, Grandma Lucy's Pumpkin Pouch Digestive offers a specialized solution to help calm a dog's upset tummy. It includes simple ingredients like pumpkin, a superfood known for its remarkable digestive benefits. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, the Pumpkin Pouch can help regulate digestive processes, soothe upset stomachs, and support healthy bowel movements for dogs experiencing tummy troubles.

Conclusion:

Helping your dog with an upset stomach means paying attention, making smart food choices, and ensuring your home is free of dangers. Spotting the early signs of tummy trouble and adjusting their diet can make a big difference. While occasional stomach issues are normal, ongoing or serious problems should always be checked by a vet. Every dog is different, so finding what works best may take some trial and error. With a little patience and the right care, you can keep your pup feeling their best and enjoying life to the fullest!