Food to Give Your Dog When They’re Sick

Taking care of a sick dog is a challenge. They have an upset tummy and a decreased appetite that isn’t fun for either of you. While you may eat soup when you are sick, your companion has different needs. A bland diet will give your four-legged friend the nutrition they need to recover while being more gentile on their tummies and relieving some of their symptoms. Below are foods to give your pal when they are sick.

Chicken and Rice

Chicken and rice are featured ingredients in many dog foods. This is because they are easy on your companion’s stomach. Additionally, this meal is very easy to prepare because you only need boneless, skinless chicken breasts and white rice. You should boil your chicken and rice and not add any additional oils or seasonings to avoid upsetting your pal’s tummy. Or, you can purchase canned chicken and rice foods if you prefer not to cook. Just be sure whatever you are feeding them is cut into small pieces to avoid choking on this special treat.

Shredded Chicken

Chicken is easy on the stomach and your pup will still want to eat it, even with a decreased appetite. Plain, boiled chicken is full of protein, vitamins, minerals, fats, and amino acids. All these benefits are fantastic if your pal is not feeling well. You can keep chicken in the fridge for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 2-6 months. Or, you can purchase packaged or canned shredded chicken as well.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is high in fiber, which regulates the digestive system. Cooked, peeled, unseasoned, and unsalted pumpkin has vitamin E, thiamine, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Canned pumpkin is also convenient so you do not have to prepare it yourself. However, do NOT give your dog pumpkin pie filling!

Sweet potatoes and baby food have similar benefits to pumpkin too! So, you can feed your pal these foods to aid their recovery too.

Bone Broth

Bone broth is nutritious and a great way to hydrate your sick pup. However, you should not give your pal cooked bones themselves because they are dangerous. You should be sure to strain the broth if you make it. Or, purchase dog-safe bone broth to avoid this danger altogether.

These foods, and other dog-safe fruits and veggies, are a great treat for your companion. As we said, a bland diet can help lessen some of your pal’s discomfort. However, these foods don’t replace veterinary care. These foods provide a delicious and nutritious treat to help your dog start feeling like themself again.