What can I give my French bulldog for an upset stomach?

Written by Marshall Newton in French Bulldog Blog Last Updated May 27, 2022
What can I give my French bulldog for an upset stomach? 1

When a dog has an upset stomach caused by acid reflux, it is best to give them bland food. Most veterinarians and other canine nutritionists suggest something bland, such as boiled chicken and rice.

The most likely reasons your French Bulldogs upset stomach are acid reflux, Gastritis, Ulcers, Overeating or too fast, and Viruses and Parasites. Below are some of the things you can give your French Bulldog if they are suffering from any of the above.

Many things can be found in your dog’s stomach. Owners of French Bulldogs often have to deal with their dogs eating things they should not eat. The French Bulldogs’ gastrointestinal tract is sometimes found to contain a foreign object after their owners have taken them to the veterinarian. For various reasons, dogs can experience upset stomachs or stomach pain. 

Acid Reflux causes your French Bulldog an upset stomach.

Acid reflux can be managed with dietary changes and prescription antacids if necessary. Acid reflux can be controlled by avoiding fattening foods, changing to low acidity foods, and feeding smaller quantities throughout the day.
Your French Bulldog’s digestive system may make gurgling noises when undergoing a reflux episode that sounds like they are about to vomit. Since acid reflux usually occurs within the esophageal passage, no actual regurgitation will occur. It is possible to notice stomach pain and gastrointestinal distress without showing visible vomiting signs.

You might notice some of these symptoms in your Frenchie if they have acid reflux:

Throwing up mucus occasionallyStopping and starting meals without completing themA lack of appetiteExcessive drooling Choking during and after mealsWeight Lossfrench bulldog upset stomach symptoms

Dietary changes and prescription antacids can be used to treat acid reflux. Feeding small quantities throughout the day is important to combat acid reflux, switch to low acidity foods, and avoid fatty foods.

Home remedy for dog Acid Reflux

When a dog has an upset stomach caused by acid reflux, it is best to give them bland food. Most veterinarians and other canine nutritionists suggest something bland, such as boiled chicken and rice. A bland diet consisting of low-fat protein and grains with minimal sugar content is easier for the stomach to digest. This, in turn, prevents the stomach from producing as much stomach acid, which will prevent acid reflux flare-ups.

Gastritis causes your French Bulldog an upset stomach

Inflammation of the stomach is termed Gastritis and is location-specific. It is possible to get Gastritis from any number of causes, such as spoiled food, food allergies, food intolerances, and viruses. Dogs can suffer from this particular stomach problem due to foraging and consuming products that are not intended for them.

Symptoms
Some cases of gastritis are isolated, but they can also be a symptom of more serious digestive problems. Gastritis in dogs is characterized by symptoms such as bloating, gas, vomiting, diarrhea, and a lack of appetite.

What can I give my French Bulldog for an upset stomach?

The treatment depends on the underlying cause. An acute case usually resolves without medical attention. There are some non-medical ways to treat acute gastritis, including:

withhold food for 24 to 48 hours.
In the first 24 hours, give small amounts of water frequently (if fluids can’t be administered orally without causing vomiting, consult a vet right away).
Give a small amount of low-fat, highly digestible food after 24 hours if vomiting has not occurred.
Resuming feeding with frequent small meals (usually 12 times the normal amount of daily food divided into 4-6 meals).
Over the following two to three days, increase the amount of food eaten.
If vomiting returns, notify your veterinarian.

When it comes to acute gastritis, the prognosis is generally favorable. The prognosis for chronic gastritis depends on the underlying cause.

Overeating or too fast causes your French Bulldog an upset stomach

Indigestion is the most common form of an upset stomach. Indigestion can be defined as any discomfort caused by the consumption of food. This means that whatever your dog ate wasn’t compatible with their system. In most cases, indigestion includes symptoms related to acid reflux, such as nausea and heartburn.


When it comes to diagnosing nausea in dogs, it usually manifests as gagging or vomiting and, if severe, as diarrhea. It is caused by excess stomach acid, which the body uses to begin digestion by breaking down food.

Symptoms
When dog indigestion occurs, the gastric system is overwhelmed by too much stomach acid and attempts to relieve the pressure. Regurgitation, gas pain, bloating, and canine diarrhea are the most common symptoms of the body’s attempt to relieve this pressure.
french bulldog stomach issues

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Home remedy for dog Upset Stomach

In addition to fighting off viruses, probiotics are also excellent for fighting off illnesses in the digestive tract. Also, probiotics support brain function and energy, combating symptoms such as lethargy associated with upset stomachs. To help introduce healthy bacteria to their gut, try adding a spoonful of plain greek yogurt to their food for a quick at-home solution.

Ulcers cause your French Bulldog an upset stomach.

It should not surprise you that stomach acid is the main cause of most stomach problems in dogs. Having stomach ulcers is the culmination of stomach acid’s damage to the body. Whenever the stomach’s innermost part is damaged by acid, small holes appear in the stomach tissue lining. When the stomach lining is eroded by too much stomach acid, it causes this unfortunate condition. Ulcers are typically caused by overusing antibiotics or contracting infections. Preexisting digestive disorders like gastritis and acid reflux can aggravate ulcers and make them chronic.

Symptoms
Dogs suffering from ulcers are often seen vomiting blood or passing dark stool. Although ulcers are not always visible, they are often detectable by unexplained weight loss, signs of fatigue or lethargy, and a propensity to avoid food.
french bulldog sick symptoms

Treatment for dog Upset Ulcers

It is common for French Bulldogs who suffer from ulcers to be wary of food because eating can increase stomach pain. Depending on their severity, most ulcers can be managed rather than fully healed within six to eight weeks. To heal the stomach tissue and dull the pain, your dog may be prescribed antibiotics and painkillers, but eating may still be challenging. For dogs suffering from ulcers, canned pumpkin is a staple food. Pumpkin is low-glycemic so that it won’t aggravate the abscess and has a delicious flavor that your pet won’t be able to resist.

Viruses and Parasites cause your French Bulldog an upset stomach.

Your French Bulldog can pick up some nasty viruses just like you can catch stomach bugs like the flu. Although viruses are relatively common in dogs, they can sometimes be more severe than most other stomach-related conditions. Like parasites, parasites set up shop in a dog’s gastrointestinal tract, and both can cause significant digestive problems.

Contaminated feces are most likely consumed whether your French Bulldog has been infected with parasites or a virus. However, most contaminated substances are ingested orally by dogs rather than other means.

The Parvovirus can infect the small intestine of a healthy dog that poses the greatest threat. It can enter the bloodstream and ultimately attack the heart, bone marrow, and white blood cells. Most veterinarians recommend that dogs be vaccinated against Parvovirus to prevent the spread of the disease. Dogs are most likely to contract parasites like worms. The worms live in your dog’s intestines, feeding on the nutrients the body is trying to digest. In addition to depriving your dog of nutrients, worms can result in dehydration, diarrhea, weight loss, fever, and vomiting.

Symptoms
Your dog’s stool will be an indicator of what is going on internally when it is infected with both Parvovirus and worms. When your dog has bloody diarrhea, it may be suffering from early-onset Parvo, so you should consult your veterinarian as soon as possible. If caught early, Parvo is entirely treatable, but vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the illness from developing. The worms normally appear in your dog’s stool, but your veterinarian may recommend bringing in a stool sample for analysis if there is no visible evidence. In most cases, worms can be treated with antibiotics, usually given orally over a week or intravenously.
french bulldog stomach gurgling
What can I give my French bulldog for an upset stomach? 2
what can i give my french bulldog for upset stomach

Treatment for Viruses and Parasites

To combat viruses and parasites, dehydration is the most significant obstacle. Pedialyte is recommended. This is the same drink parents give their children when they’re sick? Plus, it works for dogs too! There may be a problem with your dog drinking the drink because of its flavor, so administer it in small doses using a syringe. To help replenish your dog’s electrolytes, you may mix water and bone broth as a salty alternative.

Conclusion

Your dog will inevitably experience stomach distress at some point, but as his owner, you will be there to help him. It is important to remember that you cannot diagnose your pet’s illness, but there are many wonderful remedies for dog upset stomachs. You should always use the resources available to you to seek professional medical care for your dog and use your discernment to make the best possible decisions for his long-term wellbeing.

Marshall Newton

Marshall Newton stands as an authoritative figure in the world of dog care and training, enriched by over 40 years of hands-on experience. His lifelong journey with dogs has seen him own over 20 canines from a diverse range of breeds, making him a versatile expert in the field. Marshall's expertise doesn't stop at general dog care; he's also a specialist when it comes to French Bulldogs. As the founder of "Little French Dog," Marshall provides invaluable advice and resources for both new and seasoned Frenchie owners. Whether it's understanding breed-specific traits or discovering new care tips, Marshall is the go-to resource in the Frenchie community. Interested in learning more? Feel free to connect with Marshall on LinkedIn for a deeper dive into his professional background and a wealth of canine insights.

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