Dog’s upset stomach can turn a normal day upside down—those slow walks to the yard, the whimpering after meals, or the sudden disinterest in their favorite treats are hard to miss. When Fluffy starts turning up her nose at dinner or Max can’t seem to settle, many pet owners reach for natural solutions before heading to the vet. But it’s key to remember: not all home fixes work the same, and some might clash with local regulations or your pup’s unique needs.
Plain, unsweetened yogurt with live cultures often tops the list. It’s a gentle way to boost good bacteria in their gut, especially after a bout of diarrhea. Just check the label—no added sugars or artificial sweeteners, which can be toxic. In places like Germany, where pet food regulations are strict, sticking to plain, human-grade yogurt (in small amounts) avoids unintended additives.
Cooked pumpkin, not the spiced pie filling, is another go-to. Its fiber helps firm loose stools or ease constipation, making it versatile for different stomach issues. A tablespoon mixed into their regular food works for most dogs, though sizes matter—Chihuahuas need less than Great Danes. In the UK, many pet owners swear by this, but it’s important to serve it plain, as additives like cinnamon can irritate some dogs’ stomachs.
Ginger, in tiny doses, might soothe nausea. A pinch of grated ginger sprinkled on their food or a drop of ginger tea (cooled, no sugar) can help, but overdoing it can cause heartburn. This is a trick some owners in the southern US use, but always start small—too much can do more harm than good.
Of course, these remedies aren’t substitutes for professional care. If your dog is vomiting blood, has diarrhea for more than 24 hours, or seems lethargic, a vet visit is a must. Laws in places like California require prompt care for suffering animals, and delaying treatment could not only worsen their condition but also risk legal issues. Plus, every dog is different—what works for a Lab might upset a Shih Tzu’s sensitive stomach.
Natural remedies can be gentle allies when your dog’s stomach is off, but they work best when paired with common sense. Watch their reaction closely, stick to small portions, and never hesitate to call the vet if things don’t improve. After all, a happy, healthy pup is worth the extra care.
Skin infections in dogs can show up in all sorts of ways—red patches that make them scratch nonstop, crusty spots behind the ears, or even a yeasty smell that sticks to their fur no matter how often you bathe them.
If you’ve ever caught your pup squinting at the sun, pawing at their eye after a romp in the grass, or noticed a crusty film in the corner of their lid
If you’ve ever leaned in to greet your pup and noticed their eye looks red and puffy, with a sticky, yellowish discharge clinging to their lashes, you’re probably worried—and wondering
If you’ve ever knelt down to wipe your dog’s paws after a walk and noticed their pads feel like rough, cracked tree bark—so thick they almost look like they’re wearing tiny gloves
Picture this: Your golden retriever barrels through Arizona's dusty trails, then stops abruptly, pawing frantically at his reddened eye.
If you’ve ever leaned in to kiss your pup’s forehead and noticed their eye looks pink and puffy, with goopy discharge clinging to their lashes, you’re probably dealing with conjunctivitis.
