If your dog is vomiting, has diarrhea, or suddenly refuses regular food, the best first step is often a simple bland diet. Homemade dog food for an upset stomach should be mild, low-fat, and easy to digest.

The most commonly recommended options by vets in the U.S. are chicken and rice, turkey and pumpkin, or a light broth-based meal. These recipes use gentle ingredients that help settle the stomach while still providing basic nutrition during recovery.

Below are three easy, vet-friendly recipes you can make at home.

Why a Bland Diet Helps Dogs with an Upset Stomach

When dogs experience digestive issues, their stomach lining becomes irritated. Heavy fats, rich treats, and regular kibble can make symptoms worse.

A proper upset stomach diet should:

• Use lean protein (chicken or turkey)

• Include easy-to-digest carbs (white rice)

• Avoid oils, spices, and seasonings

• Be served in small, frequent portions

These meals are temporary solutions for 2–5 days while symptoms improve.

1. Chicken and Rice for Dogs with an Upset Stomach

Ingredients

How to Make It

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Rinse 1 cup white rice until water runs clear.
Cook with 2 cups water. Simmer 15–18 minutes until soft.

Step 2: Boil the Chicken

Place chicken in a pot. Cover with water.
Boil 10–12 minutes until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Let cool, then shred into very small pieces. Remove all fat.

Step 4: Mix and Cool

Combine equal parts chicken and rice.
Allow to cool to room temperature before serving.

Serving Size

• Small dogs: ¼ cup per meal

• Medium dogs: ½ cup per meal

• Large dogs: 1 cup per meal

Feed 2–3 small meals per day instead of one large meal.

2. Turkey and Pumpkin Digestive Support Bowl

Pumpkin helps firm stool and soothe digestion.

Ingredients

How to Make It

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Prepare white rice as directed above.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey

Brown turkey in a pan over medium heat.
Cook 8–10 minutes until no pink remains.
Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Combine

Mix turkey, rice, and pumpkin until evenly blended.
Let cool fully before serving.

When to Use Pumpkin

Pumpkin is helpful when:

• Stool is loose

• Dog has mild diarrhea

• Dog is constipated

Avoid large amounts. Too much fiber can worsen symptoms.

3. Chicken and Bone Broth Recovery Soup

Best for dogs who refuse solid food.

Ingredients

Make sure broth contains no onion, garlic, or added salt.

How to Make It

Step 1: Simmer Chicken in Broth

Place chicken in pot with bone broth.
Simmer 12–15 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 2: Shred Chicken

Remove chicken, shred finely, return to broth.

Step 3: Add Zucchini (Optional)

Add very finely shredded zucchini.
Simmer 3–5 minutes more.

Step 4: Cool Completely

Allow to cool to room temperature before serving.

Storage Guidelines

• Refrigerator: up to 3 days

• Freezer: up to 2 months

• Reheat gently and cool before serving

Feeding Guidelines for Dogs with Digestive Issues

• Feed small portions every 4–6 hours

• Always provide fresh water

• Avoid treats during recovery

• Transition back to kibble slowly over 2–3 days

Transition Plan:

Day 1: 75% bland food + 25% regular food
Day 2: 50% bland + 50% regular
Day 3: 25% bland + 75% regular

When to Call the Vet

Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog has:

• Vomiting lasting more than 24 hours

• Blood in stool

• Severe lethargy

• Refusal to drink water

• Signs of dehydration

A bland diet is for mild cases only.

Benefits of These Ingredients

Chicken & Turkey – Lean proteins that are easy on digestion
White Rice – Simple carb that helps bind stool
Pumpkin – Natural fiber support
Bone Broth – Encourages hydration and appetite

Final Thoughts

Homemade dog food for an upset stomach can help your dog recover faster when symptoms are mild. Stick to simple, low-fat ingredients and small portions.

If symptoms improve within 24–48 hours, you can slowly transition back to regular food. If not, don’t wait—call your vet.

A gentle meal, fresh water, and rest usually go a long way toward getting your dog back to normal.