Updated September 25, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Mild, short-lived vomiting or diarrhea in an otherwise healthy adult dog can often be managed at home with small, bland meals, plenty of water, and rest, as long as your dog is bright and eating. Fiber and veterinary probiotics have some evidence for helping diarrhea. Human anti-diarrhea medicines, Pepto-Bismol, and many herbal remedies aren’t safe without a vet’s advice. Puppies, seniors, dogs with other illnesses, and any dog with warning signs should see a vet.
See a vet right away if your dog has
- Repeated vomiting, or vomiting with diarrhea
- Blood in vomit or stool, or black, tarry stool
- A swollen or painful belly, or retching without bringing anything up (possible bloat)
- Lethargy, weakness, or pale gums
- Not eating for more than a day
- Possible toxin or object swallowed
- Signs lasting more than 24–48 hours
- Puppies (especially unvaccinated), seniors, or dogs with chronic illness
Home care for mild cases
- Water: offer small amounts often. Ice chips can help after vomiting.
- Bland diet: small, frequent meals of plain cooked chicken (no skin or bones) or lean ground turkey with plain white rice, or a vet gastrointestinal diet. Gradually return to regular food over a few days.
- Fasting: short fasts are no longer routinely recommended for dogs. Many vets advise offering small bland meals early. Follow your vet’s advice.
- Rest and a calm environment.
Remedies with some evidence
- Fiber: psyllium or a vet fiber supplement can help some dogs with large-bowel diarrhea (mucus, straining, frequent small stools). Plain canned pumpkin adds a small amount of fiber.
- Veterinary probiotics: studies suggest some strains shorten acute diarrhea in dogs. Human probiotics may not contain helpful amounts or strains for dogs.
Remedies to skip
- Pepto-Bismol: contains a salicylate related to aspirin, and turns stool black, hiding bleeding. Only use if your vet advises.
- Loperamide (Imodium): can be dangerous for some breeds (such as Collies and Australian Shepherds) and for diarrhea caused by toxins or infections.
- Ginger, peppermint, or other herbal supplements: little evidence in dogs. Some products contain xylitol or other unsafe ingredients.
- Activated charcoal without veterinary direction.
- Milk, bone broth with onion or garlic, or fatty foods.
- Hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting, unless a vet instructs you.
Preventing upset stomachs
- Change foods gradually over 7–10 days.
- Avoid table scraps and fatty treats.
- Keep garbage and compost secured.
- Keep up with deworming and parasite prevention.
Frequently asked questions
How long should I feed a bland diet?
Usually 2–3 days, then transition back to regular food. If signs don’t improve within a day or two, see your vet.
Is pumpkin good for dog diarrhea?
It may help a little, but it’s low in fiber compared with psyllium. It shouldn’t replace a vet visit for ongoing signs.
For long-term problems, see chronic digestive problems in dogs.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Diarrhea in small animals
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Vomiting in small animals
- Shmalberg J, et al. A randomized double blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial of a probiotic or metronidazole for acute canine diarrhea. Front Vet Sci. 2019
- Mandigers PJJ, et al. A randomized, open-label, positively-controlled field trial of a hydrolyzed protein diet in dogs with chronic small bowel enteropathy. J Vet Intern Med. 2010
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.