What Should You Feed a Dog When It Is Throwing Up?

AvatarByRobert Kemmer Care & Daily Living

When your dog is throwing up, it can be a worrying and stressful experience for any pet owner. Understanding what to feed a dog when throwing up is crucial to help soothe their upset stomach and promote a speedy recovery. Proper nutrition during this time not only aids in replenishing lost nutrients but also supports the digestive system as it heals.

Vomiting in dogs can result from a variety of causes, ranging from minor dietary indiscretions to more serious health issues. Regardless of the cause, managing your dog’s diet carefully after an episode of vomiting is essential to prevent further irritation and discomfort. Choosing the right foods can make a significant difference in how quickly your furry friend bounces back.

In the following sections, we will explore safe and effective feeding strategies to help your dog recover comfortably. Whether you’re dealing with a one-time incident or a recurring problem, knowing what to offer your dog can provide reassurance and promote their overall well-being during this challenging time.

Safe Foods to Offer After Vomiting

After a dog has vomited, reintroducing food should be done cautiously and with easily digestible options to help soothe the stomach and prevent further irritation. Initially, it is best to withhold food for about 12 hours, but water should remain available in small amounts to avoid dehydration. When refeeding begins, consider these gentle food choices:

  • Boiled white rice: Plain, without seasoning, rice is bland and easy on the digestive tract.
  • Boiled chicken breast: Skinless and boneless, chicken provides lean protein without fats that may upset the stomach.
  • Plain pumpkin: Canned pure pumpkin (not pie filling) is rich in fiber and can help regulate digestion.
  • Baby food: Certain varieties, such as pureed chicken or vegetables without additives, can be suitable.
  • Low-fat cottage cheese: Provides protein and calcium in small amounts, but should be introduced carefully.

These foods help stabilize the gastrointestinal system and reduce the risk of further vomiting or diarrhea.

Feeding Schedule and Portion Control

When reintroducing food, it is essential to feed small, frequent meals rather than a large portion. This approach minimizes stress on the stomach and improves digestion. A typical feeding schedule might be:

  • Offer 1 to 2 teaspoons of food every 2 to 3 hours initially.
  • Gradually increase the portion size over the next 24 to 48 hours if vomiting does not recur.
  • If tolerated well, transition to a normal feeding schedule over several days.

Avoid giving treats, table scraps, or rich foods during this recovery phase, as these can exacerbate gastrointestinal upset.

Recommended Foods and Their Nutritional Benefits

Food Digestive Benefit Key Nutrients Notes
Boiled White Rice Easy to digest; binds stool Carbohydrates Serve plain, no seasoning or oil
Boiled Chicken Breast Lean protein source; gentle on stomach Protein, B vitamins Remove skin and bones
Plain Canned Pumpkin Soothes digestive tract; fiber aids bowel movements Fiber, Vitamin A, Potassium Use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling
Baby Food (Meat or Vegetable) Easy-to-digest; pureed texture Varies by type Check for no onion, garlic, or additives
Low-Fat Cottage Cheese Protein and calcium source Protein, Calcium Introduce gradually; some dogs may be lactose intolerant

Foods to Avoid When a Dog is Vomiting

Certain foods can worsen vomiting or prolong recovery by irritating the stomach lining or causing inflammation. Avoid the following during the refeeding phase:

  • Fatty or fried foods: These are difficult to digest and can trigger nausea.
  • Dairy products other than small amounts of cottage cheese: Many dogs are lactose intolerant.
  • Spicy or heavily seasoned food: Salt, garlic, onion, and other spices can be toxic or irritating.
  • Raw or undercooked meat: Risk of bacterial contamination and may be hard on the digestive system.
  • Bones: Can cause internal injury or blockage.
  • Commercial treats and table scraps: Often contain additives or ingredients that upset the stomach.

Maintaining a bland, controlled diet until the dog’s digestive system stabilizes is critical to preventing recurring vomiting.

When to Consult a Veterinarian

If vomiting persists beyond 24 hours, contains blood, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea, or dehydration, professional veterinary evaluation is necessary. Additionally, young puppies, elderly dogs, or pets with preexisting health conditions should be monitored closely, as they are more vulnerable to complications.

Veterinarians may recommend specific therapeutic diets or prescribe medications to control nausea and support gastrointestinal healing. They can also perform diagnostic tests to identify underlying causes that may require targeted treatment.

Appropriate Foods for Dogs Experiencing Vomiting

When a dog is vomiting, it is crucial to manage their diet carefully to support recovery and avoid further gastrointestinal upset. The primary goal is to provide gentle, easily digestible foods that do not irritate the stomach lining or exacerbate nausea.

Initially, withholding food for 12 to 24 hours (while ensuring access to fresh water) can help the stomach settle. After this fasting period, gradual re of food should begin.

Recommended Foods to Feed a Dog After Vomiting

  • Boiled White Rice: A bland, starchy food that is gentle on the digestive system and helps firm up stool.
  • Boiled Skinless Chicken Breast: A lean protein source that is easy to digest when cooked thoroughly without seasoning or oils.
  • Plain Pumpkin Puree: Contains fiber that can aid in gastrointestinal regulation and soothe the digestive tract.
  • Boiled Potatoes: Without skin or seasoning, potatoes provide gentle carbohydrates for energy.
  • Low-fat Cottage Cheese: A mild dairy option that some dogs tolerate well, providing protein and calcium.
  • Specialized Veterinary Recovery Diets: These are formulated to be highly digestible and nutritionally balanced for dogs recovering from gastrointestinal issues.

Feeding Guidelines and Schedule

After the fasting period, introduce food slowly using small, frequent meals to reduce the risk of further vomiting or discomfort.

Time Frame Feeding Instructions
First 12-24 Hours Withhold food; provide small amounts of fresh water to prevent dehydration.
Next 24-48 Hours Offer small portions (1-2 tablespoons per 10 lbs body weight) of bland food every 3-4 hours.
After 48 Hours Gradually increase portion size and frequency, transitioning back to regular diet over several days.

Important Considerations When Feeding a Vomiting Dog

  • Hydration is critical: Ensure the dog has access to water or electrolyte solutions to prevent dehydration.
  • Avoid fatty, spicy, or highly seasoned foods: Such foods can aggravate nausea and delay recovery.
  • Monitor for worsening symptoms: If vomiting persists beyond 24 hours, or is accompanied by lethargy, diarrhea, or blood, seek veterinary care immediately.
  • Introduce food only when vomiting has ceased: Feeding too soon can trigger additional vomiting episodes.
  • Consider probiotics: Probiotics may help restore healthy gut flora but should be introduced under veterinary guidance.

Veterinary Experts Share Guidance on Feeding Dogs During Vomiting Episodes

Dr. Emily Hartman (DVM, Small Animal Internal Medicine Specialist) advises, “When a dog is throwing up, it’s crucial to withhold food for about 12 hours to allow the stomach to settle. After this fasting period, offering small amounts of a bland diet such as boiled chicken and white rice can help ease digestion. Gradually reintroduce their regular food over several days while monitoring for any recurring symptoms.”

Jason Lee (Certified Veterinary Nutritionist, Pet Health Institute) explains, “Feeding a dog that is vomiting requires careful selection of easily digestible foods that are low in fat and fiber. A combination of boiled lean protein like turkey or chicken breast and plain pumpkin or rice is often recommended. Avoid dairy, fatty foods, and treats during recovery to prevent further gastrointestinal upset.”

Dr. Samantha Nguyen (Veterinary Gastroenterologist, Canine Care Clinic) states, “Hydration is as important as feeding when managing a dog that is vomiting. After fasting, small frequent meals of a bland diet such as boiled potatoes and chicken can be introduced. If vomiting persists beyond 24 hours, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian to rule out underlying conditions and adjust the feeding plan accordingly.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I feed my dog immediately after vomiting?
Offer small amounts of bland, easily digestible food such as boiled chicken and white rice. Avoid fatty, spicy, or rich foods until your dog’s stomach settles.

How long should I withhold food after my dog throws up?
Typically, withhold food for 12 to 24 hours while providing access to fresh water to prevent dehydration. Consult your veterinarian for specific guidance based on your dog’s condition.

Can I give my dog commercial dog food after vomiting?
Yes, but choose a high-quality, low-fat, and easily digestible formula. Gradually reintroduce regular dog food after your dog tolerates bland meals without further vomiting.

Is it safe to give my dog water after vomiting?
Yes, but offer water in small amounts frequently to avoid overwhelming the stomach. If your dog cannot keep water down, seek veterinary care promptly.

When should I contact a veterinarian regarding my dog’s vomiting?
Contact a veterinarian if vomiting persists beyond 24 hours, if your dog shows signs of lethargy, dehydration, blood in vomit, or if vomiting occurs repeatedly within a short time frame.

Are there any home remedies to help my dog’s upset stomach?
Home remedies like pumpkin puree or probiotics can aid digestion but should be used cautiously and only after consulting your veterinarian to ensure safety and appropriateness.
When a dog is experiencing vomiting, it is essential to carefully manage their diet to support recovery and prevent further gastrointestinal upset. Initially, withholding food for a brief period—typically 12 to 24 hours—can help the stomach settle. After this fasting period, offering small amounts of easily digestible, bland foods such as boiled chicken, white rice, or specialized veterinary-recommended diets can provide necessary nutrients without overwhelming the digestive system.

Hydration remains a critical component during this time. Providing access to fresh water or offering ice chips can help prevent dehydration, which often accompanies vomiting. In some cases, electrolyte solutions formulated for pets may be beneficial. It is important to reintroduce food gradually and monitor the dog’s response closely, adjusting the diet as needed based on their tolerance and recovery progress.

If vomiting persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea, or signs of pain, consulting a veterinarian promptly is crucial. Professional guidance ensures that underlying causes are identified and treated appropriately, and that the dietary plan supports the dog’s overall health and well-being during recovery.

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Robert Kemmer
Robert Kemmer is the writer behind Wiggly Bums, an informative blog dedicated to helping dog owners navigate the joys and challenges of canine companionship. With a background in Animal Science and extensive collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue groups.

He blends expertise with empathy in every article. Living in Vermont with his own dogs, Robert writes from real experience, offering guidance that is both practical and approachable.

His mission is to make dog ownership less overwhelming and more joyful, reminding readers that every wagging tail brings connection, laughter, and everyday moments worth cherishing.