Dog Nutrition and Health Guide: Tummy Trouble, Toxic Foods and Special Diets

Dog nutrition and health guide: what to do for upset stomachs, toxic foods, eating habits, hydration, special diets and supplements, with 30 guides.

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Dog upset stomach - a dog lying on a soft bed looking uncomfortable with a water bowl nearby
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Health Note: This guide is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. If your dog seems unwell, contact your vet. Read our Veterinary Disclaimer.

Good dog nutrition means a complete diet, the right amount, fresh water and quick action when something goes wrong. This guide groups our 30 nutrition and health articles by problem, from an upset stomach or a toxic snack to kidney diets and supplements.

Emergency First

If your dog ate something toxic, collapsed, has a swollen belly, or keeps vomiting, call your vet or an emergency clinic now. Use these guides for general information, not diagnosis.

Upset Stomach, Vomiting and Constipation

The most common reasons owners search for help. Each guide lists red-flag signs.

GuideWhat you’ll find
Dog upset stomachA 24-hour home-care plan and safe remedies.
Dog vomiting yellowWhat bile means and when to call.
Dog throwing up white foamCauses and emergency signs like bloat.
Dog constipationSafe home remedies and when to see a vet.
Food poisoning in dogsSymptoms, care and moldy food risks.
Sensitive stomach dietDiet types and a 2-week food trial.
Probiotics for dogsWhat works and how to choose.
Dog passing gasCauses, fixes and warning signs.

Toxic Foods and Emergencies

Know these before an accident happens.

GuideWhat you’ll find
Toxic foods listThe full list ranked by risk.
Dog ate chocolateToxicity chart and what to do now.
Xylitol poisoningToxic dose, products and symptoms.
Thanksgiving foodSafe and unsafe holiday dishes.

Eating Habits and Appetite

Normal quirks versus signs that need a vet.

GuideWhat you’ll find
Dog not eatingHow long is too long.
Always hungryNormal reasons vs. medical causes.
Eating poopCauses, risks and how to stop it.
Eating grassWhat is normal and when to worry.
How much to feed a puppyChart by weight and age.

Water and Hydration

Water is the nutrient dogs need most.

GuideWhat you’ll find
How much water a dog needsDaily chart by weight.
Dehydration in dogsSigns, home checks and safe rehydration.

Diets for Health Conditions

Diet support that works alongside your vet’s treatment plan.

GuideWhat you’ll find
Kidney dietLower phosphorus and sodium.
PancreatitisLow-fat foods with real fat numbers.
Food allergiesTriggers and the elimination diet.
Itchy skinCauses and safe home relief.
Bad breathWhat the smell can mean.
Liver problemsHepatic diet basics and safe foods.
Senior dog dietWhat older dogs need to eat.
Overweight dogBody condition checks and a weight-loss plan.

Supplements

What the evidence says before you buy.

GuideWhat you’ll find
Fish oilEPA and DHA labels and safe use.
GlucosamineDoes it work, and dosing.
MultivitaminsWhen dogs need one and the risks.

Quick Rules to Remember

  • Diet first: a complete and balanced food covers most needs; supplements are extras.
  • Fresh water always: about 1 ounce per pound of body weight a day is a common guide.
  • Watch for red flags: repeated vomiting, blood, a swollen belly, weakness or not drinking need a vet.
  • One change at a time: it makes it easier to see what helps or hurts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the basics of dog nutrition?

Dogs need protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and water in the right balance. A complete and balanced food for your dog’s life stage provides them; human food and treats should stay small extras.

When should I call the vet about my dog's stomach?

Call if vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than a day, there is blood, your dog stops drinking, or seems weak or in pain. Call right away for puppies, seniors and dogs that ate something toxic.

Does my dog need supplements?

Most healthy dogs on a complete diet don’t. Fish oil or joint supplements can help some dogs, so ask your vet first.

The Bottom Line

Most dog health questions start with food and water. Use the sections above to find the right guide fast, act quickly on red-flag signs, and browse everything in Nutrition & Health.