Even the healthiest dogs can get an upset stomach after trying a new treat. Sometimes it’s because the treat was too rich, too fatty, or had multiple ingredients their stomach wasn’t used to. Other times, it’s a sign of sensitivity or a mild food intolerance. Knowing how to respond — and when to worry — can make these situations much less stressful.
How Do You Soothe a Dog’s Upset Stomach?
If your dog suddenly develops mild vomiting, loose stool, or a sour stomach after eating a treat, the first step is usually to keep things simple.
Here are gentle ways to soothe the stomach:
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Give their digestive system a break by pausing treats for the rest of the day.
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Offer small sips of water, not large gulps.
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Use bland, gentle foods if they’re hungry (plain boiled chicken and rice is classic).
Once they stabilize, transitioning back to simple, single-ingredient treats like Sweet Potato Slices, Lamb Lung, or Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Bites can help prevent another upset because their ingredients are easy to digest.
The AKC also recommends simplifying ingredients and resting the stomach for mild digestive issues.
Can a Dog’s Upset Stomach Resolve Itself?
Yes — many mild stomach upsets resolve within 12–24 hours, especially if the cause is a new or rich treat. Dogs often just need time for their digestive system to reset.
Signs that it’s mild and likely to pass:
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Slightly loose stool but still active
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One or two episodes of vomiting
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No fever, shaking, or lethargy
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Drinking water normally
If your dog perks up quickly once the treat is out of their system, there’s usually nothing to worry about. But if symptoms worsen or last longer than a day, it’s best to check with your vet.
How Long Should an Upset Stomach Last for a Dog?
A mild treat-related upset stomach usually lasts 12–48 hours. Anything longer may suggest:
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a true food intolerance
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a bacterial imbalance
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dehydration
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a foreign object
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or another underlying issue
During this period, monitor your dog’s energy level, appetite, water intake, and stool. If vomiting is persistent or your dog becomes lethargic, see a veterinarian right away.
Why Some Treats Cause Digestive Upset
Dogs often react to:
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treats with too many blended ingredients
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rich or fatty snacks
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artificial flavors or colors
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unfamiliar proteins
Switching to single-ingredient treats not only simplifies digestion but also makes troubleshooting much easier. Treats like Sweet Potato Slices, Lamb Lung, or Chicken & Sweet Potato Jerky eliminate the mystery ingredients that often trigger upset stomachs.
The Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine recommends using limited-ingredient or single-ingredient foods for dogs with sensitive digestion.
How to Prevent Stomach Issues After Treats
To help avoid future problems:
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Introduce new treats slowly.
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Keep treat portions small (the 90/10 rule: 90% meals, 10% treats).
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Choose clean, simple options without fillers or artificial additives.
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Rotate proteins carefully if your dog has known sensitivities.
Natural treats such as Sweet Potato Slices, Lamb Lung, and Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Bites are gentle and predictable options.
Final Thoughts
An upset stomach after a treat is usually temporary, but the right response makes all the difference. Give your dog time to settle, simplify their diet, and switch to gentle, single-ingredient treats that are easy to digest. If symptoms last more than a day or your dog seems unwell, don’t hesitate to call your vet.