Diet for Dogs With Ulcers

Dogs with gastrointestinal ulcers, or stomach ulcers, may show no outward signs or may vomit digested or fresh blood. You veterinarian will perform tests and usually will prescribe medication to decrease gastric acidity to prevent the ulcer from worsening. Most pets need a bland diet to soothe the stomach while taking the medication. The regular diet of kibble can cause distress in the digestive system and increase ulcer pain and sensitivity.

  1. Bland Carbohydrates

    • Carbohydrates make glucose for energy and fuel the body. White rice is a bland carbohydrate to add to your dog's diet when he has ulcers. Do not add any seasoning to the rice; just cook it as directed on the package. You can add nonfat, low-sodium chicken or beef bullion without onions in place of the water to add some protein to the rice and make it extra tasty.

    Cooked Meats

    • Lean boiled meats provide protein for your pet and are gentle on his stomach. You can boil chicken breasts, or lean hamburger in water, then drain off the liquid and offer equal portions of the meat and white rice. For a quickie meal, offer your furry friend chicken baby food. It is made with no seasonings or preservatives and gentle on the digestive system. If a baby can eat it and digest easily, it certainly will agree with your pooch.

    Dairy Products

    • Cottage cheese and yogurt contain protein and calcium for your pet. Low-fat plain yogurt has approximately 448 milligrams of calcium and 13 grams of protein. Nonfat plain yogurt contains approximately 350 milligrams of calcium and 8 grams of protein each in a 1-cup serving. Either of these two dairy products makes a nice meal when mixed equal portions of white rice. Dairy products coat stomach ulcers to soothe them along with medications from your veterinarian.

    Foods to Avoid

    • Your pack member may beg for his favorite dog treats when he is on a bland diet, but hard dog biscuits can cause additional harm and pain to an ulcer. It is best not to allow him to eat anything hard while he is being treated for ulcers, normally about six to eight weeks. His bland diet is easy to digest and soothing to his stomach so he doesn't really need any additional foods. Your veterinarian will advise you on the amount of food your dog needs for each meal and the duration of his bland diet.