What Should You Feed Your Dog When They Are Throwing Up?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Care & Daily Living

When your dog is throwing up, it can be a distressing experience for both you and your furry friend. Understanding what to feed a dog when throwing up is crucial to helping them recover comfortably and safely. Proper nutrition during this sensitive time not only soothes their upset stomach but also supports their overall healing process.

Vomiting in dogs can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from minor digestive upset to more serious health issues. Knowing how to approach feeding after an episode of vomiting requires careful consideration to avoid further irritation. The right foods and feeding strategies can make a significant difference in your dog’s recovery, helping to restore their appetite and digestive balance.

As you navigate this challenging situation, it’s important to be informed about safe dietary choices and feeding practices that promote healing without overwhelming your dog’s system. This article will guide you through the essentials of what to feed a dog when throwing up, ensuring you’re prepared to provide the best care possible during this uncomfortable time.

Safe Foods to Offer After Vomiting

Once your dog has stopped vomiting and appears stable, introducing gentle, easy-to-digest foods can help soothe their stomach and prevent further irritation. The goal is to provide nourishment while minimizing the risk of triggering another episode of vomiting.

Begin with small portions and gradually increase the quantity as your dog tolerates the food. Typical safe options include:

  • Boiled white rice: Highly digestible and bland, rice helps bind the stool and soothes the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Boiled chicken breast (skinless, boneless): A lean protein source that is easy on the stomach.
  • Pumpkin puree: Contains fiber that can aid digestion and regulate bowel movements.
  • Plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is preferable due to its fiber content.
  • Boiled potatoes: Without skin and seasoning, potatoes provide a gentle carbohydrate source.
  • Low-fat cottage cheese or plain yogurt: Can be introduced in small amounts if your dog is not lactose intolerant, offering probiotics and protein.

Avoid foods that are fatty, spicy, rich in fiber, or contain dairy products unless previously introduced without issue, as these may worsen gastrointestinal upset.

Feeding Schedule and Portion Control

After vomiting, it’s crucial to manage how and when your dog eats to prevent overwhelming their digestive system:

  • Fasting period: Typically, withholding food for 8 to 12 hours allows the stomach to settle.
  • Small frequent meals: Begin refeeding with small portions every 3 to 4 hours rather than one or two large meals.
  • Gradual return to regular diet: Over several days, slowly transition from the bland diet back to your dog’s usual food, mixing increasing amounts of their regular food with the bland diet.

This approach helps avoid stress on the stomach and reduces the chance of recurrent vomiting.

Sample Bland Diet Feeding Plan

Time Since Last Vomit Feeding Instructions Recommended Food Portion Size
0-8 hours Withhold food, provide water in small amounts Water only Small sips every 1-2 hours
8-12 hours Offer small amounts of bland food Boiled white rice + boiled chicken (1:1 ratio) 1-2 tablespoons
12-24 hours Feed small, frequent meals of bland diet Boiled rice and chicken mixture 3-4 small meals
24-48 hours Increase meal size, monitor tolerance Gradually add small amounts of regular dog food Meal size increased by 25-50%
After 48 hours Return to normal diet if no vomiting occurs Regular dog food Regular portion size

Hydration Considerations

Maintaining proper hydration is essential during and after episodes of vomiting. Dehydration can develop rapidly, especially if vomiting is frequent. To support hydration:

  • Offer small amounts of fresh water frequently rather than large quantities at once to reduce nausea risk.
  • Consider electrolyte solutions formulated for dogs if recommended by a veterinarian.
  • Avoid giving any human sports drinks or electrolyte supplements unless directed by a professional, as some ingredients may be harmful.

If your dog cannot keep fluids down or shows signs of dehydration such as lethargy, dry gums, or sunken eyes, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Foods to Avoid During Recovery

Certain foods can exacerbate vomiting or cause additional gastrointestinal distress and should be avoided until your dog fully recovers:

  • Fatty or greasy foods: Such as fried meats, bacon, or rich treats.
  • Dairy products: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, and dairy can worsen diarrhea or vomiting.
  • Spices and seasoning: Including garlic, onions, salt, and pepper.
  • Raw food: Raw meat or bones can introduce bacteria or cause irritation.
  • Human snacks or table scraps: Often too rich or containing harmful substances.

Maintaining a simple, bland diet helps facilitate recovery and prevents further irritation.

Monitoring and When to Consult a Veterinarian

Careful observation during dietary management is important. Contact your veterinarian if your dog:

  • Vomits repeatedly despite fasting and bland feeding.
  • Shows signs of dehydration or weakness.
  • Has blood in vomit or stool.
  • Exhibits abdominal pain, bloating, or distension.
  • Refuses all food and water for more than 24 hours.
  • Has underlying health conditions that may complicate recovery.

Prompt veterinary evaluation ensures appropriate diagnosis and treatment, preventing complications from prolonged vomiting or dehydration.

Immediate Dietary Adjustments for Dogs That Are Vomiting

When a dog is experiencing vomiting, the primary objective is to allow the gastrointestinal tract to rest and recover. This involves withholding food and water temporarily, followed by a gradual re of a bland, easily digestible diet.

Initial Fasting Period:

  • Withhold food for 12 to 24 hours depending on the severity and frequency of vomiting.
  • Water should be offered in small amounts frequently to prevent dehydration but avoid large quantities at once.
  • If vomiting persists beyond 24 hours or if your dog shows signs of lethargy, dehydration, or distress, seek veterinary care immediately.

Reintroducing Food:

  • Begin with small portions of a bland diet after the fasting period and once vomiting has ceased for at least 6 to 12 hours.
  • Feed multiple small meals throughout the day instead of one or two large meals to ease digestion.

Recommended Bland Diet Options for Vomiting Dogs

A bland diet is designed to be gentle on the stomach and reduce gastrointestinal irritation. It typically consists of simple, low-fat, low-fiber ingredients that are easy to digest.

Ingredient Description Preparation Tips
Boiled Skinless Chicken Lean protein source that is gentle on the stomach. Boil without seasoning or oil; shred finely to aid digestion.
White Rice Low-fiber carbohydrate that provides energy and helps bind stool. Cook thoroughly until soft; avoid adding salt or butter.
Boiled Potatoes Easy-to-digest carbohydrate alternative to rice. Peel and boil until soft; serve plain without seasoning.
Plain Pumpkin Rich in fiber, aids digestion and soothes the intestinal lining. Use canned plain pumpkin (not pie filling) or freshly cooked pumpkin.

Feeding Ratio and Frequency:

  • Start with a mixture of approximately 75% carbohydrate (rice or potatoes) and 25% lean protein (chicken).
  • Feed small portions every 3 to 4 hours.
  • Monitor your dog’s response and gradually increase portion size over 2 to 3 days.

Foods and Substances to Avoid During Vomiting Episodes

Certain foods and substances can exacerbate vomiting or delay recovery by irritating the gastrointestinal tract or causing additional digestive upset.

  • Dairy Products: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, which can worsen diarrhea and vomiting.
  • Fatty or Fried Foods: High-fat content can be difficult to digest and may increase nausea.
  • Spices and Seasonings: Salt, garlic, onions, and other additives can be toxic or harmful to dogs.
  • Raw Food: Raw meat or bones can harbor bacteria or cause internal injury, especially when the stomach is sensitive.
  • Treats and Human Snacks: Avoid all processed treats until the dog’s digestive system has stabilized.
  • Chocolate, Grapes, and Other Toxic Foods: These should never be given and can cause serious poisoning.

Hydration Management During Vomiting

Maintaining adequate hydration is critical when a dog is vomiting, as fluid loss can quickly lead to dehydration, which may worsen the condition.

Guidelines for Hydration:

  • Offer small amounts of fresh water frequently, such as a teaspoon every 10-15 minutes.
  • If water is refused, try offering ice cubes or ice chips to lick slowly.
  • For dogs that cannot keep water down, veterinary intervention may be required to administer fluids intravenously or subcutaneously.
  • Electrolyte solutions specifically formulated for dogs can be used under veterinary guidance to replenish lost minerals.

When to Transition Back to Regular Dog Food

After a successful transition through the bland diet and the absence of vomiting for 24 to 48 hours, the dog can gradually return to its regular diet.

Transition Steps:

  • Begin mixing small amounts of regular dog food with the bland diet at a ratio of 25% regular food to 75% bland diet.
  • Increase the proportion of regular food gradually over 3 to 5 days while monitoring for any recurrence of vomiting or digestive upset.
  • If vomiting returns at any point, revert to the bland diet and consult your veterinarian.

Additional Considerations:

  • Ensure the regular dog food is high-quality, balanced, and appropriate for your dog’s age and health status.
  • Avoid sudden diet changes in the future to minimize gastrointestinal upset.

Expert Guidance on What To Feed a Dog When Throwing Up

Dr. Emily Hartman (Veterinarian, Canine Health Institute). When a dog is vomiting, it is crucial to start with a bland diet once vomiting has ceased for at least 12 hours. I recommend offering small amounts of boiled white rice mixed with boiled, skinless chicken breast. This combination is gentle on the stomach and helps to provide essential nutrients without causing further irritation.

Michael Torres (Certified Veterinary Nutritionist, Pet Wellness Center). After a dog has stopped vomiting, gradually reintroducing food is key. Begin with easily digestible foods such as plain pumpkin puree or a prescription gastrointestinal diet recommended by your vet. Avoid fatty, spicy, or rich foods, as these can exacerbate nausea and delay recovery.

Dr. Sarah Lin (Veterinary Internal Medicine Specialist, Animal Care Hospital). Hydration is paramount when managing a dog that has been vomiting. Once the dog can keep down water, small amounts of electrolyte solutions designed for pets can be introduced. Feeding should resume with small, frequent meals of a bland diet, such as boiled potatoes and lean protein, to minimize gastrointestinal stress and promote healing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

How long should I withhold food after my dog throws up?
It is generally recommended to withhold food for 12 to 24 hours, depending on the severity of vomiting, to allow the stomach to settle before reintroducing bland food.

Can I give my dog water after vomiting?
Yes, provide small amounts of water frequently to prevent dehydration. Avoid giving large quantities at once, as this may trigger more vomiting.

Are commercial dog foods suitable when my dog is vomiting?
Specially formulated gastrointestinal or sensitive stomach dog foods can be used after the initial fasting period. These diets are designed to be gentle on the digestive system.

When should I consult a veterinarian about my dog’s vomiting?
Seek veterinary care if vomiting persists beyond 24 hours, is accompanied by lethargy, diarrhea, blood, or if your dog shows signs of distress or dehydration.

Is it safe to give my dog probiotics or supplements when they are vomiting?
Probiotics may help restore gut flora but should only be given under veterinary guidance, especially during active vomiting episodes, to avoid worsening symptoms.
When a dog is experiencing vomiting, it is crucial to carefully manage their diet to support recovery and prevent further gastrointestinal upset. Initially, withholding food for a short period, typically 12 to 24 hours, allows the stomach to settle. After this fasting period, offering small, bland meals such as boiled chicken and rice or a prescription gastrointestinal diet can help ease digestion and reduce irritation.

Hydration is equally important during this time, so providing access to fresh water or an electrolyte solution is essential to prevent dehydration. Gradually reintroducing regular food over several days ensures the dog’s digestive system can adjust without overwhelming it. Avoid feeding fatty, spicy, or rich foods until the dog has fully recovered.

It is important to monitor the dog’s condition closely and consult a veterinarian if vomiting persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Proper dietary management combined with veterinary guidance promotes a safe and effective recovery for dogs experiencing vomiting.

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.