Dogs occasionally develop mild vomiting or diarrhea from eating something unusual, a sudden diet change, stress, or another minor digestive upset. Some cases can be watched at home, but vomiting and diarrhea can also be signs of pancreatitis, obstruction, infection, toxin exposure, or other serious disease.
When home care may be reasonable
Home care is generally most appropriate for an otherwise healthy adult dog with mild symptoms who is still alert, drinking, and able to keep water down.
Keep water available
Dehydration is one of the main concerns with vomiting and diarrhea. Offer fresh water. If your dog gulps large amounts and vomits, smaller frequent amounts may be easier to tolerate.
Feed small, easy-to-digest meals
Once vomiting has settled, small meals of an easily digested food may be easier on the stomach than a full normal meal. A veterinarian may recommend a gastrointestinal diet or another short-term feeding plan.
Pumpkin may help some dogs with diarrhea
Plain canned pumpkin contains soluble fiber and can help normalize stool in some dogs. Use plain pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Probiotics
Some veterinary probiotics have evidence supporting their use for certain types of acute diarrhea. Product quality varies, so a veterinary product is preferable to choosing one at random.
Do not automatically give human stomach medicines
Human medications such as loperamide, bismuth products, antacids, or pain relievers are not appropriate for every dog and may interact with other conditions or medications. Ask your veterinarian before using them.
Signs that need veterinary care
- Repeated vomiting
- Blood in vomit or stool
- A swollen or painful abdomen
- Repeated unproductive retching
- Severe lethargy or weakness
- Inability to keep water down
- Possible toxin or foreign-object exposure
- Symptoms in a puppy, very small dog, senior dog, or dog with chronic disease
How long should you wait?
If mild symptoms are not clearly improving within about a day, or they worsen at any point, contact your veterinarian. Dogs that stop eating, become dehydrated, or develop repeated vomiting should be evaluated sooner.
The bottom line
For a mild stomach upset, hydration, small easily digested meals, and careful monitoring are reasonable. Avoid turning a minor problem into a bigger one with unproven remedies or human medications.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Gastrointestinal disorders in dogs
- Veterinary guidance on acute vomiting and diarrhea
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.