What home remedy can i give my dog for diarrhea and vomiting?

When your dog starts having diarrhea or vomiting, it’s hard not to panic. Those upset tummies can make them listless, and you’ll probably feel helpless watching them struggle. Before you rush to the cabinet for every remedy you can think of, though, there are some simple, safe steps you can take at home to ease their discomfort—just remember, these are only for mild cases, and knowing when to get professional help is key.

One of the first things vets often suggest is a short fast. Holding off on food for 12 to 24 hours (but never water!) gives their digestive system a chance to calm down. This works best for adult dogs; puppies and seniors shouldn’t go without food that long, so keep an eye on them. While they’re fasting, make sure they stay hydrated—dehydration can sneak up fast with vomiting or diarrhea. Try small sips of water frequently, or mix in a little unflavored electrolyte solution (the kind made for kids works) to replace lost minerals. Some owners swear by diluted, low-sodium chicken broth (no onions or garlic, which are toxic to dogs) to encourage them to drink—just keep it plain, no extras.

Once the worst of the vomiting stops, you can start reintroducing food slowly. Bland is best here. Cooked white rice with a little boiled, boneless, skinless chicken (no seasoning, no oil) is a classic go-to. It’s easy on their stomach, and most dogs love it. Serve tiny portions—think a tablespoon or two at a time—and wait to see how they handle it. If they keep it down, you can gradually increase the amount over the next day or two, mixing in a bit of their regular food as they improve. Skip the dairy, though—most dogs don’t digest lactose well, and milk might just make things worse.

Now, what about other home remedies? Some people swear by pumpkin—canned, plain pumpkin (not the pie filling with sugar or spices). A teaspoon or two (depending on your dog’s size) can help firm up diarrhea because of its fiber. Just don’t overdo it, or you might end up with the opposite problem. And never give them human meds like Imodium or Pepto-Bismol without checking with a vet first—some ingredients can be dangerous for dogs, especially certain breeds.

It’s crucial to know when home remedies aren’t enough. If the diarrhea or vomiting lasts more than a day, if there’s blood in their stool or vomit, if they’re lethargic, running a fever, or refusing water, it’s time to call the vet. These could be signs of something more serious, like an infection, blockage, or even poisoning. Also, keep in mind that some treatments that seem harmless might not be allowed under local animal welfare guidelines, so always make sure any remedy you use aligns with what’s considered safe and responsible pet care in your area.

Your dog’s comfort is your top priority, and these simple home steps can help them through a mild stomach bug. But trust your gut—if something feels off, or if they’re not getting better, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. A happy, healthy pup is worth that extra care, and knowing when to act could make all the difference in getting them back to their playful selves.