Episode Details

Have you ever stared at your dog’s food bowl wondering if the thing meant to help their stomach is actually making them feel worse?

For years, dog parents have been told that chicken and rice is the “safe” answer for digestive upset. But many dogs struggling with inflammation, stress, loose stools, vomiting, or gut imbalance don’t actually need more filler — they need support that helps the digestive system recover without adding extra strain.

In this episode, Em unpacks why chicken and rice isn’t always the gentle solution it’s made out to be and shares a different way of thinking about dog gut health and digestion. Through stories about Toby’s stress-related stomach issues, she explores how hydration, minerals, amino acids, nervous system regulation, and gut-soothing support often matter far more than simply feeding “bland food.”

Because upset stomachs aren’t always asking for more food.
Sometimes they’re asking for less pressure.

Listeners will hear:

• why chicken and rice may not support gut healing the way many dog parents expect
• how stress, nervous system regulation, and inflammation affect digestion and dog behavior
• gentle ways to support dog gut health without overwhelming the digestive system

Press play for a grounded conversation about dog nutrition, gut health, digestion, and the small feeding shifts that can help your dog feel calmer, more comfortable, and better supported from the inside out.

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This podcast explores real life with dogs — including dog behavior, dog anxiety, reactive dogs, dog reactivity, and dog training problems. It's for dog parents who feel overwhelmed navigating life with dogs and want a clearer understanding of their dog and a calmer daily life together. Episodes also cover dog nutrition, canine nutrition, pet nutrition, dog food, dog enrichment, dog body language, and dog communication — connecting behavior, health, and daily routines to help you better understand your dog and reduce stress. We're now taking this conversation on the road, bringing honest support directly to dog parents across the country.

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