As a dog owner, keeping your furry friend healthy is paramount. However, sometimes even the most vigilant pet parents can't prevent their dogs from ingesting something that doesn't quite agree with their stomachs.

If your dog is experiencing digestive issues, you may be wondering how you can clean their stomach naturally. While many over-the-counter medications can help, plenty of natural remedies available at Doggie Herbs can soothe your pet's upset stomach.

We will discuss some of the best natural methods for cleaning your dog's stomach, the symptoms of an upset stomach, the causes, and much more. So stick around for some informative doggie stomach care guide.

Understanding The Digestive System Of Dogs

Understanding the digestive system of dogs is crucial in keeping them healthy. And the design of their digestive tract facilitates easy digestion of high-protein foods.

Once in the stomach, the food mixes with digestive juices like hydrochloric acid and enzymes that break down proteins and other nutrients.

The partially digested food then enters the small intestine, where nutrient absorption into the bloodstream occurs. In the large intestine, water is absorbed from the remaining undigested food, forming feces.

However, it is important to recognize that dogs are prone to experiencing stomach upset more easily than humans. This susceptibility is due to several factors inherent in their digestive system.

Firstly, dogs have a relatively short digestive tract compared to humans, meaning their food passes through their system quickly, leading to less time for effective digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Additionally, dogs have a strong sense of smell, which often leads them to explore and consume various substances that may not be suitable for their stomachs.

Understanding their digestive system can help us make an informed diet and overall health decisions.

Causes Of Stomach Upset In Dogs

There are several reasons why your dog may be experiencing this discomfort. Here are some of the causes.

1. Abrupt diet transition

Just like humans, our dogs need a consistent and balanced diet. If they suddenly switch to a new food brand or type of food, their digestive system may be unable to handle the change. If a transition is a must, it should be smooth.

2. Food allergies

Dogs can also develop allergies to certain foods, which can cause their digestive system to become inflamed and result in diarrhea or vomiting. You, therefore, need to know which type of food your dog is allergic to to avoid any incidents.

3. Intestinal parasites or worms

These pesky critters can enter your dog's system through contaminated food or water and cause serious digestive issues.

4. Viruses

Viruses can also be a cause of stomach upset in dogs. Like humans, dogs can contract norovirus and rotavirus, leading to stomach upset.

5. Stress or anxiety

Stress and anxiety in dogs can lead to stomach upset because of the strong connection between the brain and the digestive system.

When your dog is stressed, stress hormones are released, which can disrupt the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

6. Eating contaminated food

Eating contaminated food can lead to stomach upset in dogs due to ingesting harmful bacteria, and toxins, present in the food.

These substances can disrupt the delicate balance of the digestive system, leading to gastrointestinal distress.

Symptoms Of Stomach Upset You Should Look Out For

Some of the most common symptoms of stomach upset in dogs include:

1. Excessive gas or bloating

Accumulation of gas in the digestive tract leads to excessive gas. If your dog is experiencing this symptom, you may notice them becoming restless or uncomfortable. In severe cases, dogs may appear in pain or have difficulty breathing.

2. Vomiting & diarrhea

They can result from various factors, including infections, allergies, or even dietary changes. If left untreated, vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration and other serious health issues.

3. Loss of appetite

If your dog is not interested in eating or shows a lack of enthusiasm for their favorite foods, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Often dogs will also become lazy and less active when not eating.

4. Excessive drinking of water

Excessive drinking could indicate that your dog is dehydrated or that their body is trying to flush out toxins. Monitoring their water intake and ensuring they can access clean water is important.

5. Bad Breath

If something is wrong with your dog's stomach, it means there's an imbalance. This imbalance can produce foul-smelling gases expelled through the mouth, causing an unpleasant breath odor.

6. Changes in stool

A change in the stool may manifest as diarrhea or constipation, varying in consistency, frequency, or color. This may reflect the disruption in the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract during stomach upset.

Cleaning Your Dog Stomach Naturally

While commercial pet foods and supplements can help, natural remedies can also be used to clean your dog's stomach.

1. Grazing on Grass – Dogs often eat grass to induce vomiting when they feel unwell or have eaten something they shouldn't have. This helps them clear their stomachs naturally and is a great way to help your dog cleanse their digestive system.

2. Fasting – Fasting is another natural way to help your dog's stomach cleanse itself. Withholding food for a day gives your dog's digestive system a chance to rest and recover.

3. Coconut oil - Not only is coconut oil great for human health, but it also benefits dogs. Adding a small amount of coconut oil to their meals can support digestion and contribute to a cleaner stomach.

4. Ginger - This powerful root has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe an upset stomach in dogs. Adding a pinch of grated ginger to their food can aid digestion and alleviate discomfort.

5. Rosemary -   Not just a fragrant herb, rosemary can aid in digestion and help eliminate toxins. Sprinkle dried rosemary on your dog's food to enhance their digestive health.

6. Calendula Flowers – Calendula flowers possess remarkable healing powers. Their antiseptic quality helps prevent bacterial growth, making them an excellent choice for calming a dog's upset stomach and keeping bacteria at bay.

7. Goldenseal - This herb has natural antimicrobial properties and can help combat bacteria in the stomach. Consult with a veterinarian on the appropriate dosage of goldenseal for your dog's specific needs.

8. Valerian Root - Valerian root and chamomile can calm your dog's stomach. This natural remedy can alleviate digestive discomfort and promote a cleaner, healthier stomach.

Conclusion

Learning how to naturally clean a dog's stomach is essential to maintaining its overall health and well-being.

Remember to be vigilant about any symptoms of stomach upset, as they may indicate a need for cleaning the digestive system.

You can effectively clean your dog's stomach and improve its overall digestion by prioritizing a natural and gentle approach.