Table of Contents
What to Feed Dogs After Vomiting
When your dog vomits, it can be worrying and confusing. Sometimes it’s as simple as eating grass or snacking on something they shouldn’t have, while other times it may signal an underlying health issue. As a pet parent, your first concern is usually: what to feed dogs after vomiting so their stomach can settle? In this guide, we’ll cover when to feed your dog after they vomit, the best bland diet options for recovery, what foods to avoid, and when it’s time to call your veterinarian.
Should You Feed Dogs Right After Vomiting?
The first mistake many dog owners make is feeding their pup immediately after vomiting. While it feels natural to “make them feel better,” their stomach actually needs time to rest. General rule: No food for 4–6 hours for puppies and small breeds. No food for 8–12 hours for larger adult dogs. Water should be available, but offer small sips at a time to prevent gulping.
Dog Vomiting: When It’s an Emergency
Not all vomiting is minor. Sometimes, it points to something serious. Call your vet immediately if your dog: Vomits more than 3 times in 24 hours, has blood in vomit or stool, appears weak, lethargic, or in pain, is retching but nothing comes out, has severe diarrhea along with vomiting, or is very young, very old, or has health conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.
What to Feed Dogs After Vomiting at Home
If your dog vomits once or twice but seems fine afterward, you can safely reintroduce food after the fasting period. Start with a bland diet that’s easy on their stomach.
Safe Homemade Foods for Dogs After Vomiting: Boiled chicken or turkey (skinless, unseasoned), plain white rice, boiled and mashed potatoes (no butter or spices), lean, unseasoned ground beef, plain pumpkin puree (small amounts for digestion).
Store-Bought Options: Prescription veterinary diets for sensitive stomachs, canned food labeled “gastrointestinal” or “digestive care,” wet food instead of kibble (softer and more hydrating). ⚠️ Avoid fatty meats, dairy, spicy food, bones, or table scraps—they can worsen vomiting.
Feeding Schedule After Vomiting
It’s not just what you feed but also how much. Day 1: Fast for 4–12 hours (depending on size and health). Day 2: Start with 10% of their usual meal size. If tolerated, increase gradually. Day 3: Feed 50% of their normal portion split into 2–3 small meals. Day 4: Slowly transition back to their regular food. If vomiting starts again, stop feeding and consult your vet.
Chronic Vomiting and Diet Adjustments
If your dog vomits regularly or for several days in a row, it’s no longer “just an upset stomach.” Chronic vomiting can indicate food allergies or intolerances, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis, parasites or infections, or liver and kidney disease. For long-term conditions, vets may recommend hypoallergenic diets for food sensitivities, low-fat diets for pancreatitis, or veterinary prescription diets tailored to the illness. Never keep your dog on a homemade bland diet for too long—it lacks complete nutrition.
FAQs on What to Feed Dogs After Vomiting
1. How long should I wait before feeding my dog after vomiting? Wait 4–6 hours for puppies and small dogs, and up to 12 hours for larger dogs.
2. What’s the best first food after vomiting? Boiled chicken with plain white rice is the most recommended bland meal.
3. Can I give treats to my dog after vomiting? No. Avoid treats and table scraps until your dog’s stomach has fully settled.
4. My dog vomited but is still hungry. Should I feed them? Don’t feed them immediately. Wait for the fasting period to end, then offer bland food.
5. What if my dog vomits again after eating bland food? Stop feeding and call your vet, as repeated vomiting may signal a deeper issue.
✅ Key Takeaway: Most mild vomiting cases can be managed at home with fasting, bland food, and hydration. But if your dog vomits repeatedly, shows severe symptoms, or has underlying health conditions, always consult a veterinarian.