Updated October 14, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Most dogs get an upset stomach at some point. If your dog is otherwise healthy, alert, and dealing with only mild vomiting or diarrhea, a short period of simple home care may be reasonable. The key is knowing when it is no longer a minor stomach problem.
When home care is reasonable
Home care is generally most appropriate for a healthy adult dog with mild symptoms that started recently and no warning signs.
For these dogs, the basics are usually enough:
- Offer water in small amounts frequently.
- Feed small, bland meals once vomiting has settled.
- Keep activity light for a day or two.
- Watch energy level, appetite, and stool closely.
A bland diet can help
A temporary bland diet is often easier on the stomach than a normal meal. One common option is plain cooked lean chicken or turkey with white rice.
Feed small portions rather than one large meal. Once your dog is improving, transition back to regular food gradually over a few days.
A bland diet is not balanced enough for long-term feeding, so it should only be used briefly unless your veterinarian gives different instructions.
Keep your dog hydrated
Diarrhea and vomiting can both cause dehydration. Keep fresh water available, but if your dog vomits immediately after drinking, offer smaller amounts more frequently rather than allowing them to gulp a full bowl.
Dogs that cannot keep water down need veterinary care.
Does pumpkin help?
Plain canned pumpkin can add soluble fiber and may help some dogs with mild diarrhea or constipation. Use plain pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
It is not a cure for serious gastrointestinal disease, but it can be a reasonable short-term addition for mild symptoms.
What about probiotics?
Veterinary probiotics have some evidence for helping certain cases of acute diarrhea. They are generally safer than reaching for human stomach medications.
If diarrhea is severe, bloody, recurrent, or accompanied by vomiting, a probiotic should not delay an exam.
Human medications can be risky
Do not automatically give Pepto-Bismol, Imodium, antacids, or other human medications. Some are inappropriate for certain dogs, can interact with other medications, or can hide symptoms your veterinarian needs to evaluate.
See a veterinarian promptly if you notice
- Repeated vomiting
- Vomiting and diarrhea together
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Black, tarry stool
- A swollen or painful abdomen
- Repeated retching without producing vomit
- Marked lethargy or weakness
- Pale gums
- Possible toxin exposure
- Possible foreign-object ingestion
- Symptoms lasting more than 24–48 hours
Puppies, seniors, and dogs with chronic disease should generally be evaluated sooner because they can become dehydrated or unstable more quickly.
When your dog starts feeling better
Increase meal size gradually and transition back to the normal diet over a few days. If symptoms return as soon as regular food is reintroduced, talk with your veterinarian.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Gastroenteritis in small animals.
- WSAVA Global Nutrition Committee.
- AAHA guidance on acute gastrointestinal illness in dogs.
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.