Back to Article page
What’s causing your puppy’s upset stomach?
In the first five months of life, your puppy’s natural defences are not fully matured. These months of a pup's life are vital to their health in the long term. This period is known as 'Immunity Gap' where your puppy might be vulnerable to infections and digestive upsets. PURINA® PRO PLAN PUPPY with colostrum is proven to boost your pup's gut health and build his immune responses, protecting him from infections. It comes in 3 variants - Small & Mini Puppy, Medium Puppy and Large Puppy.
Sudden change in diet
Any sudden change in their diet can cause digestive upsets. Allow a period of 7-10 days for your dog to get used to new food. Each day, simply feed a little less of the previous food and a little more of new food until you are feeding new food exclusively. This gradual transition will help avoid dietary upsets.
A Puppy Is a Chewing, Swallowing Machine
Puppies, like people, get bored. And, when they’re bored, they get into stuff chewing and swallowing string, rocks, twigs, toys, etc.
Swallowed items can cause stomach blockages and internal damage. Look for these symptoms:
• Blood in the urine or poop
• Vomiting
• Inability to urinate or defecate
• Low energy
• Even weight loss
When you see these symptoms and especially if these symptoms seem to be getting worse, it’s always good to talk to your veterinarian.
NOTE: Keep dangerous items—like medications—in a safe place.
If puppy looks bored, make sure he gets plenty of exercise. That’s good for you and puppy. Learn about the different types of games to play with your puppy.
NO, PUPPY! Chocolate, Onions, Sugary Snacks, Grapes, Chewing Gum
There are quite a few types of food that can give your puppy stomach problems. Even worse, they can potentially be life threatening.
Keep puppy away from chocolate, onions, sugary snacks, grapes, and chewing gum. Do a little research and find out what other foods should be kept away from your furry friend.
NOTE: Keep medications and household cleaners in a place that puppy can’t reach. If you think puppy has gotten into such items, CALL YOUR VET IMMEDIATELY.
Illness Can Cause an Upset Tummy
The puppy’s immune system is still a work in progress. It’s developing.
So, it’s a good idea to keep your friend away from places and situations where infections can easily spread, like parks, or dog parks, or play dates with unvaccinated dogs, until puppy starts to get his vaccinations on board including rabies and the first couple of distemper vaccines.
Now, sometimes illness is serious. Here are IMPORTANT SYMPTOMS to look for that go beyond a simple upset stomach: dehydration, low energy, confusion, and, even more serious, a drastic change in weight. If, for any reason, you think your puppy has a serious illness, the best thing you can do is contact your veterinarian.
Slow Down, Puppy, You Eat Too Fast
A very common cause of a puppy’s upset stomach is… he’s eating too fast. Shortly after a meal, you may hear a rumbling belly or notice gas and vomiting.
Try giving him smaller portions throughout the day rather than big ones. Click here for additional puppy feeding guidelines.
The Most Serious Symptoms of All
It’s a good idea to call your vet if you notice that puppy is vomiting or experiencing diarrhoea. These common symptoms of an upset stomach shouldn’t be ignored. But they aren’t usually serious. Your vet may recommend a home remedy.
There are more SERIOUS SYMPTOMS, though, that you need to look for. If you see any of these symptoms, DON’T WAIT, TAKE YOUR PUPPY TO AN ANIMAL HOSPITAL OR YOUR VET IMMEDIATELY:
• Inability to walk
• Seizures
• Stumbling like your puppy is drunk
• A bloated abdomen
