It can be alarming to hear your dog’s stomach making loud gurgling noises—especially when they’re also refusing food. These symptoms often signal discomfort in your dog’s digestive system, and it’s important to understand what might be going wrong.
We outline the common causes of a dog having an upset stomach with gurgling and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Upset Stomach Gurgling and Not Eating — Why It Happens
A gurgling stomach combined with loss of appetite can result from anything from mild digestive upset to more serious gastrointestinal issues. Dogs may experience these symptoms due to dietary indiscretion, infections, parasites, pancreatitis, or even stress.
In some cases, it can point to a dangerous blockage in the intestines or an underlying chronic illness.
Common Causes of Dog Upset Stomach Gurgling and Not Eating
Dietary Indiscretion
Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn’t—from garbage to greasy table scraps.
This kind of scavenging can lead to stomach gurgling, nausea, gas buildup, and refusal to eat.
You might also see vomiting or loose stools shortly after the episode. The stomach makes extra noise as it tries to process irritating or unfamiliar food.
If it’s a mild case, symptoms often pass within 24–48 hours—but monitor closely.
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis refers to inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often due to viruses, bacteria, or toxins.
It can lead to noisy digestion, a visibly uncomfortable dog, vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of interest in food.
Even if caused by a minor bug, gastroenteritis can become serious if your dog becomes dehydrated or lethargic.
It’s one of the most common reasons dogs show these combined symptoms.
Read more: Dog Diarrhea and Not Eating (Causes and when to worry)
Intestinal Parasites
Worms and other parasites can disrupt your dog’s digestive tract and cause discomfort.
Roundworms, hookworms, and giardia are among the culprits that can cause gurgling sounds and appetite loss.
Some dogs will also show bloating, weight loss, or changes in stool appearance.
Puppies and dogs with weak immune systems are especially vulnerable.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas and can be triggered by a high-fat meal or occur spontaneously.
It often causes loud abdominal noises, abdominal pain, vomiting, and complete loss of appetite.
You might notice your dog hunching or reacting in pain when touched near the belly.
Pancreatitis can be very serious and often requires veterinary intervention.
Foreign Body Obstruction
If your dog has swallowed a toy, bone, or piece of clothing, it may get stuck in the intestines.
The blockage can stop food from passing, causing loud stomach noises as gas builds up behind the obstruction.
Dogs with an obstruction will typically refuse food, vomit repeatedly, and become lethargic.
This is a medical emergency and needs immediate veterinary care.
Stress or Anxiety
Dogs experiencing emotional stress may develop gastrointestinal symptoms like gurgling and appetite loss.
Changes in the household, travel, or being left alone can all lead to an upset stomach.
You may also notice pacing, restlessness, or whining.
While not usually dangerous, stress-related symptoms should still be monitored.
What to Do
If your dog’s symptoms are mild and they’re otherwise acting normally, you can try some home care for 24 hours.
Start by withholding food for 12–24 hours (unless your dog is a puppy, small breed, or has health conditions—check with your vet first).
After the fasting period, offer small portions of a bland diet like boiled chicken and plain white rice.
Make sure fresh water is always available and encourage small sips frequently.
Keep your dog rested and avoid intense activity. Monitor for additional symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of pain.
If your dog improves within a day and resumes eating, it’s likely a minor issue. But continued symptoms or any decline should prompt a vet visit.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If your dog won’t eat for more than 24 hours or is showing other signs of distress, don’t wait to get help.
Watch for signs like repeated vomiting, bloody stool, lethargy, shaking, bloated abdomen, or signs of pain when touched.
Puppies, seniors, and dogs with chronic conditions should be seen sooner, as they’re more at risk of complications.
Also, if your dog has a history of eating foreign objects, a blockage must be ruled out promptly.
Trust your instincts—if your dog seems unwell or uncomfortable, it’s better to be safe and call your veterinarian.
Key Takeaway
Hearing your dog’s stomach gurgling while they refuse food can be worrisome, but it isn’t always a medical emergency.
Mild cases often resolve with rest, hydration, and a bland diet. Still, ongoing symptoms or signs of distress deserve prompt veterinary attention.
By monitoring your dog’s behavior and knowing when to act, you can ensure they get the care they need to feel better soon.