Should I starve my dog if he has an upset stomach?

Waking up to the sound of your dog retching is enough to make any new pet parent panic. You rush over to find a small puddle on the living room rug, and suddenly you’re hit with that urgent question: should you hold back their food to let their tummy settle? It’s a common worry—after all, when we feel queasy, skipping a meal sometimes helps. But dogs aren’t tiny humans, and their tummies work a bit differently.

Vets used to swear by full-day fasts for upset stomachs, but modern advice is more nuanced. Think of it like hitting pause, not hitting stop. A short break—6 to 12 hours—can give their digestive tract time to calm down, especially if they’ve been vomiting or having loose stools. But here’s the catch: never cut off water. Dehydration is far riskier than a temporarily empty stomach, and even a few hours without fluids can be tough on puppies or senior dogs.

When the fast ends, ease back in slowly. My neighbor’s golden retriever, Max, had this issue last month—after 8 hours without food, she started with a tablespoon of boiled chicken and mashed pumpkin, split into tiny portions. No oils, no spices, just simple stuff that’s easy to digest. Over 24 hours, she upped the amount, and by day two, Max was back to stealing socks (a good sign, honestly). Sudden big meals? That’s a surefire way to trigger another upset.

In places like the U.S., animal welfare guidelines stress balance—starving a dog for days isn’t just unkind; it could land you in hot water. Local shelters and vet clinics often remind owners that “rest” doesn’t mean neglect. If your pup is listless, refusing water, or showing blood in their stool, that’s not a time to wait—it’s time to call the vet. And in apartments? Quick cleanup with pet-safe cleaners keeps things neighbor-friendly, because no one wants a smelly surprise in the hallway.

Remember, every dog is different. A young border collie might bounce back fast, but an older dachshund might need gentler care. Watch for small wins: bright eyes, a wagging tail, interest in their favorite toy. Those are better signs than any strict schedule. Starving isn’t the answer—but a little patience, the right food, and keeping a close eye? That’s how you help your furry friend feel like themselves again.