How to care for a sick dog at home

Caring for a sick dog at home can be stressful, but knowing how to make your furry friend comfortable will help their recovery. Whether your dog has an upset stomach, a cold, or a long-term condition, once you’ve received advice and treatment from your vet, there are ways to manage their symptoms and provide comfort. Read on to find safe tips on how to care for a sick dog at home, and always remember to consult your vet if you're concerned or notice any worrying symptoms.

Key takeaways:

• Dogs can get common ailments like stomach bugs or colds.
• Make sure to get initial advice from your vet, then monitor your dog’s condition closely and consult the vet again if their symptoms worsen.
• Always check with your vet before trying home remedies or making changes to your dog’s diet.

Can dogs get sick?

Yes, dogs can get sick just like humans can, and they can suffer from a range of illnesses including gastrointestinal issues, kennel cough, and more. There are some common signs of illness to look out for in dogs, including vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. While many minor illnesses can be managed at home, some may require veterinary attention, especially if symptoms persist for more than 24 hours.

Can humans catch sickness from dogs?

Generally, the risk of humans catching illnesses from dogs is low. However, some diseases, including ringworm and certain bacterial infections, can be transmitted between pets and humans. It’s always a good idea to practice good hygiene, especially when caring for a sick dog. Wash your hands frequently, avoid sharing food with your dog, and keep your home clean to reduce the risk of spreading illness.

How to care for a sick dog at home

Upset stomach

An upset stomach is one of the most common ailments in dogs. If you’ve got a sick dog who is vomiting or has diarrhea, try offering them small amounts of a bland diet, such as boiled chicken and white rice. Keep them hydrated by providing fresh water, but don't force them to drink. If your dog seems very unwell, continues vomiting or has severe diarrhea for more than 24 hours, contact your vet immediately.

Dog colds and kennel cough

Dogs can get colds or kennel cough, which is similar to a cold in humans. If your dog has a mild cough or runny nose, keep them warm and comfortable. You can try using a humidifier to keep the air moist, which may help them breathe easier. If your dog's cough persists or they struggle to breathe, contact your veterinarian for guidance. Many respiratory infections in dogs spread easily to other dogs, so it’s best to keep them in or walk them somewhere quiet until they’ve been fully recovered for a few days.

Long-term conditions

If your dog has a chronic illness or long-term condition such as arthritis, kidney disease, or diabetes, it’s important to follow your vet’s treatment plan. Managing medications, keeping up with regular vet visits, and maintaining a consistent diet can help your dog live a comfortable life despite their condition.

What to feed a sick dog

When your dog is unwell, they may not feel like eating their regular food. Offer small amounts of food, and opt for a bland diet to avoid further irritating their stomach. Some common bland diet options include boiled chicken, white rice, and plain, canned pumpkin (if they’ve eaten it before with no issues). Avoid feeding your dog any table scraps, dairy products, or rich foods, as these could make their condition worse.

If your dog is not eating or drinking for more than 24 hours, consult your vet immediately to determine if further treatment is needed.

Keep your dog hydrated

Hydration is key for a dog who is feeling under the weather, especially if they’re vomiting or have diarrhea. Ensure that your dog has access to fresh water at all times. You can also offer ice cubes to encourage them to drink slowly if they're reluctant to take in fluids. In more severe cases, your vet may recommend an oral electrolyte solution or IV fluids to prevent dehydration.

Rest and relaxation

Just like humans, dogs need rest to recover. When your dog is sick, make sure they have a comfortable place to rest away from loud noises and disturbances. Keep their bed in a quiet, cozy spot, and let them sleep as much as they need. Gentle petting or being close to them can also provide comfort and reduce anxiety during their recovery. However, if they’re in pain or feeling unwell they might just want to be left alone, so don’t take it personally if they’re grumpy and need some space.

When to take your dog to the vet

It’s important to monitor your dog’s condition closely, especially if symptoms worsen. Contact your veterinarian if your dog exhibits any of the following signs:

• Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures or collapse
• Loss of appetite for more than a day
• Signs of severe pain or distress

Don’t wait for the symptoms of dog sickness to get worse - taking your dog to the vet early can prevent complications and help your dog recover faster.

Make sure to keep up with medications

If your dog is on any medications, it’s important to follow your vet’s instructions closely. Make sure your dog takes their medications at the right times, and never give your dog human medicine unless explicitly prescribed by your vet. Some medications meant for humans can be life-threatening for dogs, so always consult with your vet before administering anything new.

Keep your dog’s environment clean

When caring for a sick dog at home, cleanliness is essential. Regularly clean your dog’s bedding, toys, and bowls to prevent the spread of germs. This can lessen the chance of stomach bugs or urinary tract infections. If your dog is experiencing stomach issues, promptly clean up any accidents and sanitize the area to maintain a hygienic environment. Depending on the cause, this can help stop your dog getting sick through reinfection.

Tips from dog owners on how to care for a sick dog at home

Explore advice from our pet parent members below for a first-hand account of how they’ve cared for their poorly dog at home. For more advice, check out the full topic here on our Community Forum.

• “We took him to the vet and they recommended giving him chicken and rice for a few days [...] We also gave him pumpkin and later pumpkin powder mixed into his food […] He got much better. When he’s occasionally sick now, we stop feeding him treats for a few days.” - @Maggie8K
• “Small meals, but frequent. Filtered water - if available - is sensible, and providing a quiet, comfortable place, for them to sleep, out of draughts.” - @Happypets

Meet our veterinary expert, Hannah

This article has been checked by veterinarian Dr. Hannah Godfrey BVetMed MRCVS. Hannah graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2011 and worked in mixed practice for a few years before focusing on small animal work. Clinically, she worked in a busy, multi-centre, hospital practice until 2018, where she underwent training in advanced canine and feline dentistry and began working towards a Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice. She then moved to a local independent practice to care for the pets nearby, allowing more time to focus on other career avenues.

While you care for your pooch, did you know that they actually help you to stay healthy too? 

Come rain or shine, your trusted in-home dog sitter can help give your furry friend the love and care they need while you’re away. Explore our dog-loving sitters today.