Dog Upset Stomach After a Busy Holiday: Causes + What to Do

A busy holiday period is behind you — so why does your dog’s stomach still seem unsettled?

If you’re noticing looser stools, extra gas, or subtle changes in appetite or comfort, even now that life feels mostly back to normal, you’re not alone. Digestive changes after holiday celebrations are common for dogs, even when nothing feels dramatically different.

Between disrupted routines, extra treats, new environments, and a little more excitement than usual, your dog’s digestive system may simply be asking for a return to familiar rhythms.

The reassuring part? Supporting your dog’s gut doesn’t require a detox, drastic food changes, or a quick-fix solution. In most cases, what helps most is something far simpler: restoring consistency and allowing the body time to adjust.

Why a Busy Holiday Can Affect Your Dog’s Digestion

Dogs thrive on predictability. Their digestive systems are designed to work best when meals, movement, and rest happen on a reliable schedule.[1] Around holiday gatherings, that rhythm often shifts — sometimes more than we realize.

Diet Changes (Even Small Ones Add Up)

• Extra treats from guests

• More table scraps than usual (often higher in fat or dairy)

• New chews, bones, or novelty snacks

• Multiple people feeding them “just a little”

Even small changes can add up for a sensitive digestive system.[2]

Routine Disruptions Create Digestive Stress

• Feeding times moved earlier or later

• Walks are shortened, delayed, or skipped

• Sleep schedules change

• Increased noise, visitors, or stimulation

Stress doesn’t just affect behavior — it can also influence normal digestive processes.[3]

Travel, New Environments & Water Changes

• Motion sickness during car rides

• New smells and surroundings

• Different water sources than your dog is used to

• Boarding or staying with family

All of these factors may temporarily affect digestive comfort.

Common Post-Holiday Digestive Changes You Might Notice

In the weeks following routine disruption, some dogs may show mild, temporary changes as their digestion adjusts.

These can include:[4,5]

• Softer or less-formed stools

• Increased gas or bloating

• Temporary changes in appetite

• Stomach noises

• Mild restlessness or lower energy

• Increased paw licking or scratching

These signs don’t point to a specific condition or diagnosis. Instead, they can simply reflect a digestive system settling back into its normal rhythm.

Why “Resetting” Your Dog’s Gut Is Really About Restoring Consistency

It’s easy to assume that digestive issues require an aggressive reset, but fasting, sudden food changes, or supplements alone are unlikely to produce immediate changes, especially when digestion hasn’t settled as quickly as routines have.

In reality, gut health is best supported through consistent daily habits.

Why Extreme Fixes Can Backfire

• Abrupt food switches may further irritate the digestive tract[2]

• Restricting meals can increase physical and emotional stress

• One-time supplementation does not instantly change the gut microbiome[6]

What the Gut Actually Needs

• Predictable meals

• Familiar ingredients

• Calm, consistent routines

• Gentle, ongoing digestive support

Rather than doing more, many dogs benefit from returning to what their body already recognizes.

Suggested read: Why A Healthy Gut Is Your Dog’s Best Defense

A Simple 5-Day Reset Focused on Routine (Not a Cleanse)

Think of this as a gradual return to your dog’s usual routine — something you can use anytime schedules or habits have been off, not a detox or reset.

Day 1–2: Re-Establish the Basics

• Feed the same food your dog is used to

• Stick to consistent feeding times

• Ensure constant access to fresh water

• Keep walks calm and familiar

• Use a slow feeder if your dog tends to eat quickly

Day 3–4: Gently Support Digestion

• Maintain the same daily routine

• Continue prioritizing hydration

• Use digestive supplements consistently rather than reactively

Day 5: Let the Body Catch Up

By this point, some dogs may appear more comfortable, not because anything was “fixed,” but because their digestive system had time to adjust to a consistent routine.

Suggested read: 5 Dog Wellness Habits Worth Keeping All Year

Supporting Supplements as Part of a Daily Routine

Digestive support works best when it’s part of an everyday wellness approach, not just something used during periods of upset.

• Digestive Support Soft Chews help support normal digestion and maintain a balanced gut environment*

• Daily Multivitamins help provide nutritional consistency when appetite or intake fluctuates.*

When paired with stable routines, these tools support long-term digestive wellness.

Suggested read: Benefits of Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Postbiotics for Dogs

Post-Holiday Dog Digestion FAQs

Q: How long does it take for a dog’s digestion to normalize?
A: For many dogs, mild digestive changes improve within a few days once routines return to normal.

Q: Should I switch my dog’s food after a busy holiday period?
A: Sudden food changes can worsen digestive upset. Familiar foods and gradual transitions are typically more supportive.

Q: Can stress alone affect a dog’s digestion?
A: Yes. Stress can influence gut function even without dietary changes.[3]

Q: When should I check in with a veterinarian about loose stools?

A: If changes persist, worsen, or are accompanied by signs like vomiting, lethargy, or appetite loss, it’s best to consult a veterinarian.

What Your Dog’s Gut Needs Most Right Now

If your dog still feels a little off, you haven’t missed your window — you’re right on time.

Post-holiday digestive changes are common and often temporary. Digestive balance doesn’t follow a calendar; it responds to consistency over time. The most supportive thing you can do isn’t to overhaul your dog’s diet or rush a solution, but to restore familiar routines, maintain consistency, and offer gentle daily gut support.

With patience and predictability, many dogs settle back into their usual rhythm within a few steady days, helping them feel more comfortable as holidays come and go.

Ready to take a small step towards consistency and comfort? Use code BLOG10 at checkout for 10% off your first PupGrade order. 

This information is intended for general purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet or health routine, especially if you notice persistent or concerning changes in your dog's movement or behavior.

**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.

Resources:

1. Zanghi, B. M., Kerr, W., de Rivera, C., Araujo, J. A., & Milgram, N. W. (2012a). Effect of age and feeding schedule on diurnal rest/activity rhythms in dogs. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 7(6), 339–347. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2012.01.004

2. Liao P, Yang K, Huang H, Xin Z, Jian S, Wen C, He S, Zhang L, Deng B. Abrupt Dietary Change and Gradual Dietary Transition Impact Diarrheal Symptoms, Fecal Fermentation Characteristics, Microbiota, and Metabolic Profile in Healthy Puppies. Animals (Basel). 2023 Apr 11;13(8):1300. doi: 10.3390/ani13081300. PMID: 37106863; PMCID: PMC10135323.

3. Kiełbik, P., & Witkowska-Piłaszewicz, O. (2024). The Relationship between Canine Behavioral Disorders and Gut Microbiome and Future Therapeutic Perspectives. Animals, 14(14), 2048. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14142048

4. Hernandez J, Rhimi S, Kriaa A, Mariaule V, Boudaya H, Drut A, Jablaoui A, Mkaouar H, Saidi A, Biourge V, Borgi MA, Rhimi M, Maguin E. Domestic Environment and Gut Microbiota: Lessons from Pet Dogs. Microorganisms. 2022 Apr 30;10(5):949. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms10050949. PMID: 35630391; PMCID: PMC9143008.

5. Mariti, C., Ricci, E., Mengoli, M., Zilocchi, M., Sighieri, C., & Gazzano, A. (2012). Survey of travel‐related problems in dogs. Veterinary Record, 170(21), 542–542. https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.100199

6. Karukayil Gopalakrishnan N, Pappuswamy M, Meganathan G, Shanmugam S, Pushparaj K, Balasubramanian B, Kim IH. Influence of Probiotic Administration in Canine Feed: A Comprehensive Review. Vet Sci. 2025 May 7;12(5):449. doi: 10.3390/vetsci12050449. PMID: 40431542; PMCID: PMC12115967.