Understanding Your Dog’s Upset Stomach

Is your furry friend experiencing tummy troubles? Understanding the causes and solutions for your dog’s upset stomach can make all the difference.

Common Symptoms

An upset stomach can manifest through various symptoms, including:

• Vomiting and/or diarrhea.
• A noticeable decrease in appetite.
• Signs of discomfort, such as whining, excessive drooling, or a distended belly.
• In some cases, lethargy and a reluctance to engage in their usual activities.

Pay close attention to these symptoms as they can help determine the severity of the digestive issue.

Possible Causes of Canine Digestive Issues

There are numerous potential causes for digestive issues in dogs. Dietary indiscretions -- such as ingesting non-food items, eating too many treats or human food scraps, and sudden diet change -- are common culprits. Food allergies or intolerances can also lead to gastrointestinal distress. And then there are various infections (bacterial, viral, or parasitic), chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, and even stress or anxiety. All can contribute to your dog's upset stomach.

Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.

When to See a Veterinarian

Mild cases of digestive upset can often be managed at home, but occasionally, certain symptoms warrant a visit to the veterinarian. If your dog is experiencing severe vomiting, persistent diarrhea, blood in their stool, or signs of dehydration, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Additionally, if your dog’s symptoms persist for more than 24-48 hours or if they exhibit severe pain or discomfort, a vet visit is necessary to rule out more serious conditions and to provide appropriate treatment.

Supporting Digestive Health with the Right Diet

Besides limiting opportunities for your dog to consume non-food items, the most effective things you can do to reduce your dog's risk of developing digestive issues is to ensure he or she receives balanced, high-quality nutrition and avoid sudden changes in diet. Our stores carry several products -- including Loyall Life™ Advanced Solutions Healthy Digestion -- designed to support your dog’s digestive health with high-quality ingredients and essential nutrients, including added prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics, and a tailored mix of fibers. Stop by anytime and our associates will be happy to help you out!

NOTE: This post is adapted (with permission) from content proudly brought to you by our partners at Nutrena and Cargill Animal Nutrition. The original article appears here.