What Should You Feed Your Dog After They Have Thrown Up?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Care & Daily Living

When your dog throws up, it can be a worrying experience for any pet owner. Vomiting is a common symptom that can result from a variety of causes, ranging from minor digestive upset to more serious health issues. Knowing what to feed your dog after throwing up is crucial to help soothe their stomach, prevent further irritation, and support a smooth recovery.

Understanding the best dietary approach post-vomiting involves more than just offering food again. It requires careful consideration of your dog’s current condition, the type of food that will be gentle on their digestive system, and the timing of reintroducing meals. Feeding the wrong foods too soon or in large quantities can exacerbate the problem, while the right choices can promote healing and restore your pet’s energy.

This article will guide you through the essential steps to take when your dog has vomited, focusing on how to safely and effectively manage their diet afterward. Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or a new pet parent, gaining insight into what to feed your dog after throwing up will help you provide the best care during these unsettling moments.

Reintroducing Food After Your Dog Throws Up

Once your dog has stopped vomiting and has had a period of rest, the next step is to carefully reintroduce food. It is crucial to start with bland, easily digestible foods to avoid irritating the stomach further. Begin with small portions to monitor your dog’s tolerance and prevent overwhelming their digestive system.

Offer small amounts of food every few hours rather than one large meal. This approach helps minimize the risk of another vomiting episode while providing necessary nutrients and hydration. Observe your dog closely for any signs of nausea or discomfort before increasing portion sizes.

Recommended Foods to Feed Your Dog

Bland diets are typically recommended for dogs recovering from vomiting. These foods are gentle on the gastrointestinal tract and help stabilize digestion. Common options include:

  • Boiled white rice: Easy to digest and a good source of carbohydrates.
  • Boiled, skinless chicken breast: Provides lean protein without excess fat.
  • Plain canned pumpkin: Contains fiber that supports digestion and can help regulate bowel movements.
  • Boiled potatoes (without seasoning): Another gentle carbohydrate source.
  • Low-fat cottage cheese: Offers protein with minimal fat content.

Avoid foods high in fat, spices, or additives, as these can exacerbate stomach upset.

Feeding Schedule and Portion Size

Gradually increasing the amount and frequency of feeding is important to ensure your dog’s stomach can handle regular meals again. A typical schedule might look like this:

Time Since Last Vomit Feeding Frequency Portion Size Type of Food
First 6-12 hours None (fasting period) 0 Water only to prevent dehydration
12-24 hours Small meals every 4-6 hours 1-2 tablespoons Bland diet (boiled rice and chicken)
24-48 hours Small meals every 4 hours Gradually increase to ¼ cup Bland diet, monitor tolerance
After 48 hours 3-4 small meals daily Normal portion size based on dog’s weight Reintroduce regular diet gradually

Hydration Considerations

Maintaining hydration is critical after vomiting. Dehydration can worsen your dog’s condition and slow recovery. Encourage your dog to drink small amounts of water frequently. If your dog refuses water or continues to vomit after drinking, consult your veterinarian immediately.

You can also offer ice chips or diluted electrolyte solutions formulated specifically for pets to help replenish lost fluids and minerals. Avoid giving human sports drinks or homemade electrolyte mixtures without veterinary guidance.

When to Seek Veterinary Help

If your dog’s vomiting persists beyond 24 hours, or if they show additional symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea, blood in vomit, or signs of pain, professional veterinary assessment is necessary. Sudden and repeated vomiting can indicate serious underlying conditions that require medical intervention.

Additionally, if your dog is very young, elderly, or has pre-existing health issues, err on the side of caution and consult your veterinarian sooner rather than later. Proper diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and promote a quicker recovery.

Recommended Foods to Offer Your Dog After Vomiting

After a dog has vomited, it is essential to carefully select foods that are gentle on their digestive system to prevent further irritation and support recovery. The primary goal is to provide easily digestible, bland foods that minimize stomach upset.

Here are appropriate food options to consider:

  • Boiled White Rice: Plain white rice is low in fiber and gentle on the stomach, helping to firm stools and provide energy.
  • Boiled, Skinless Chicken Breast: Lean protein such as chicken breast without skin or seasoning aids in muscle maintenance and is easily digestible.
  • Plain Pumpkin: Canned pure pumpkin (not pie filling) can soothe the digestive tract and regulate digestion due to its fiber content.
  • Boiled Potatoes: Plain, peeled potatoes without butter or seasoning provide carbohydrates without adding fat or irritants.
  • Low-Fat Cottage Cheese: In small amounts, it can provide gentle protein and calcium but should be introduced cautiously.
  • Prescription Gastrointestinal Diets: Specially formulated veterinary diets designed to support sensitive stomachs may be recommended for prolonged issues.

When reintroducing food, it is best to start with small portions and gradually increase amounts as the dog tolerates eating without vomiting.

Foods and Substances to Avoid After Vomiting

Certain foods and ingredients can exacerbate vomiting or cause further gastrointestinal distress. Avoiding these during recovery is crucial:

  • Fatty or Greasy Foods: High-fat content can delay gastric emptying and irritate the stomach lining.
  • Dairy Products (except small amounts of cottage cheese): Many dogs are lactose intolerant, which can worsen diarrhea or vomiting.
  • Seasoned or Spiced Foods: Ingredients like onions, garlic, salt, and spices are toxic or irritating to dogs.
  • Raw Meat or Bones: These can harbor bacteria or cause mechanical irritation to the digestive tract.
  • Human Snacks and Treats: Processed snacks often contain additives and preservatives harmful to dogs.
  • Milk or Cream: Can cause digestive upset and should be avoided.

Feeding Schedule and Portion Guidelines Post-Vomiting

Establishing a careful feeding routine helps the dog’s digestive system recover gradually without overwhelming it.

Time After Vomiting Feeding Instructions Portion Size
First 4-6 hours Withhold food, provide only small amounts of fresh water Water ad libitum, avoid excessive drinking
6-12 hours Offer small amounts of bland food (e.g., boiled rice, boiled chicken) 1-2 teaspoons for small dogs, 1-2 tablespoons for medium, ¼ – ½ cup for large dogs
Next 24 hours Feed small, frequent meals of bland diet every 3-4 hours Gradually increase portion size as tolerated
After 24-48 hours If no vomiting, gradually reintroduce regular diet over 2-3 days Mix bland diet with regular food, increasing regular food ratio daily

Always monitor the dog’s response to feeding. If vomiting recurs or other symptoms develop, consult a veterinarian promptly.

Hydration Tips Following Vomiting Episodes

Maintaining adequate hydration is vital after vomiting, as fluid loss can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

  • Water Access: Allow access to fresh, clean water at all times but prevent large gulps that may trigger further vomiting.
  • Electrolyte Solutions: Veterinary-recommended electrolyte solutions or unflavored Pedialyte can help restore electrolytes if dehydration is suspected, but only under veterinary guidance.
  • Ice Chips: Offering ice chips can help dogs gradually take in fluids without overwhelming their stomach.
  • Monitor Hydration Status: Check for signs such as dry gums, lethargy, sunken eyes, or loss of skin elasticity.

In cases where the dog cannot keep any fluids down or shows signs of severe dehydration, immediate veterinary care is essential.

Veterinary Experts Weigh In on Feeding Dogs After Vomiting

Dr. Emily Harper (DVM, Veterinary Internal Medicine Specialist) advises, “After a dog has vomited, it is crucial to allow their stomach to rest for at least 12 hours before reintroducing food. Once the fasting period is over, start with small portions of a bland diet such as boiled chicken and rice. This gentle approach helps minimize further irritation and supports digestive recovery.”

Mark Benson (Certified Canine Nutritionist, Pet Health Institute) states, “Feeding your dog after vomiting should focus on easily digestible, low-fat foods to prevent additional gastrointestinal upset. Avoid rich or fatty treats and opt for a gradual transition back to their regular diet over several days, ensuring hydration is maintained throughout the process.”

Dr. Laura Chen (Veterinary Gastroenterologist, Animal Care Clinic) explains, “It is important to monitor your dog’s behavior and hydration status before feeding them post-vomiting. Begin with small, frequent meals of a bland diet and observe for any signs of recurring nausea. If vomiting persists, consult your veterinarian promptly to rule out underlying conditions.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I feed my dog immediately after it throws up?
Offer small amounts of bland food such as boiled chicken and white rice after your dog has stopped vomiting for several hours. This helps soothe the stomach and prevents irritation.

How long should I wait before feeding my dog again after vomiting?
Wait at least 4 to 6 hours after your dog stops vomiting before offering any food or water. This allows the stomach to settle and reduces the risk of further vomiting.

Can I give my dog water after it throws up?
Yes, but provide water in small, frequent sips rather than large amounts at once. This helps prevent dehydration without overwhelming the stomach.

When can I return my dog to its regular diet after vomiting?
Gradually reintroduce the regular diet over 2 to 3 days after your dog tolerates bland food without vomiting. Start by mixing small amounts of regular food with the bland diet.

What foods should I avoid feeding my dog after vomiting?
Avoid fatty, spicy, or rich foods, as well as dairy products and treats. These can irritate the stomach lining and trigger further vomiting.

When should I seek veterinary care after my dog throws up?
Seek veterinary attention 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 period.
After your dog has thrown up, it is crucial to approach their feeding with care and attention to support their recovery. Initially, withholding food for a short period—typically 12 to 24 hours—allows the stomach to settle and prevents further irritation. Once the fasting period is over, introducing small, bland, and easily digestible meals such as boiled chicken, rice, or specialized veterinary diets is recommended. These foods help minimize digestive stress and promote gradual nourishment.

Monitoring your dog’s response to refeeding is essential. If vomiting persists or other concerning symptoms arise, such as lethargy, diarrhea, or dehydration, consulting a veterinarian promptly is necessary. Additionally, ensuring your dog has constant access to fresh water helps prevent dehydration, which is a common complication following vomiting episodes.

In summary, feeding your dog after vomiting requires a cautious and measured approach focused on gentle re of food, close observation, and professional guidance when needed. By following these principles, you can help your dog recover comfortably and reduce the risk of further gastrointestinal upset.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.