Stomach issues are among the top reasons dogs visit the vet, but not all digestive problems are the same.
Although digestive symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea may seem similar, they can be caused by various causes and underlying health conditions, ranging from mild to severe.
Here are some key points to understand about stomach problems in dogs.
Symptoms Of Digestive Issues In Dogs
Gastrointestinal issues involve problems with the stomach or intestines. If your dog has an upset stomach, you might notice some of these common signs:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea, sometimes with blood or mucus
- Constipation
- Increased gas or flatulence
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Dehydration
- Abdominal pain (signs include a hunched posture, a "praying" posture with the forelimbs and chest on the floor and the hind end raised, or yelping when touched)
- Abdominal enlargement or distension
- Distress or difficulty getting comfortable
Remember, your dog might not show all these symptoms at once. Even one or two can indicate a problem and warrant a visit to the vet.
Cause Of Digestive Issues In Dogs
There are many potential causes of stomach and intestinal issues in dogs.
Digestive problems can show up in various ways, from clear symptoms like vomiting to subtle behavioral changes that are harder to notice. These issues can appear suddenly or develop gradually over time.
Here are some of the most common causes of digestive problems in dogs.
Diagnosis Of Digestive Issues In Dogs
It's essential to distinguish between symptoms and a diagnosis.
Vomiting and diarrhea are symptoms, not diagnoses. These non-specific symptoms can be linked to numerous health issues rather than a single condition.
To accurately diagnose and treat your dog, a thorough investigation is necessary. This process includes:
Dog's History: Your vet will inquire about your dog's symptoms and possible exposures (e.g., getting into the trash or eating something toxic). Detailed information, including vomiting or diarrhea descriptions, can help your vet diagnose more quickly.
Physical Exam: The vet will conduct a comprehensive physical exam, checking the abdomen for abnormalities and assessing the dog's temperature, pulse, heart, lungs, hydration, and glands/lymph nodes. This exam gives a snapshot of the dog's overall health and helps guide further testing.
Diagnostic Tests: Laboratory tests reveal internal health issues. Common tests for stomach problems in dogs include:
- Fecal/stool check for parasites
- Bloodwork (for blood cell counts, organ function, blood sugar, and electrolytes)
- Urine analysis
- X-rays
- Ultrasound
- Hormonal testing
- Infectious disease testing
- Food trials to rule out allergies/sensitivities
- Additional procedures like surgery, endoscopy, or biopsies, if needed
Only some of these tests are done at once. The vet will create a tailored plan based on the most likely conditions. This usually starts with basic tests and progresses to more advanced ones, if necessary, unless an emergency requires immediate action.
Treatment Of Digestive Issues In Dogs
Treatment aims to find out the underlying cause of the digestive issue.
For instance, a dog with intestinal parasites will be given deworming medication, while a dog with an intestinal blockage may require surgery. Therefore, the treatment varies based on the specific cause of the digestive upset.
In addition to targeted treatments, supportive care is often necessary. This care aims to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications like dehydration from vomiting, and improve the dog's comfort.
Common supportive care treatments include:
- Anti-nausea medications
- Antacids and stomach/intestinal protectants
- Medications to relieve diarrhea
- Probiotics formulated for pets
- Fluid therapy for dehydration and electrolyte replacement
- A bland diet (such as plain rice and chicken) or a special diet for sensitive stomachs
When To Take Your Dog To The Vet For Digestive Issues
When in doubt, it's best to err on the side of caution and contact your vet. If it's after hours and your pet seems very ill, seek emergency veterinary care. Some conditions can be very serious and even life-threatening.
It can be challenging to determine if a stomach issue is serious, and mild conditions can worsen if left untreated, becoming more difficult and expensive to treat.
Here are some situations that require urgent veterinary attention:
- Your pet is an older senior or a young puppy, or has a chronic health condition.
- Diarrhea or vomiting is severe or very bloody.
- Stomach upset is accompanied by symptoms like listlessness, dehydration, or fever.
- Your pet is experiencing abdominal pain.
- Your pet shows signs of bloat, especially in breeds prone to the condition.
Always prioritize your pet's health and seek professional advice when necessary.
Treatment Of Digestive Issues In Dogs At Home
Suppose your adult dog is generally healthy, acting normally, keeping down food and water, and only showing mild digestive symptoms. In that case, trying home treatments for a day or two is usually safe. However, schedule a veterinary visit if your dog's condition worsens or symptoms persist.
Here are a few home remedies you can try:
- Bland Diet: Offer plain, lean chicken and rice, which many dogs find tasty. Plain, cooked sweet potato can also help by adding fiber to firm loose stools.
- Hydration: Ensure your dog has plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Rest: Allow your dog to recover and rest.
- Probiotics: Consider adding probiotics specifically formulated for pets.
- Food Withholding: Withholding food for a few hours (up to 24 hours maximum) may help the digestive tract rest. However, this method isn't safe for all dogs, especially puppies, small breeds, and certain other dogs, so it's best to consult your vet first.
Prevention Of Digestive Issues In Dogs
While some conditions can't be prevented, many common causes of stomach issues in dogs are avoidable. Here are some tips to help prevent gastrointestinal problems in your dog:
- Ensure your dog receives regular veterinary checkups, vaccinations, and parasite prevention.
- Feed a balanced, high-quality diet suitable for their life stage (puppy, adult, or senior).
- Limit table scraps and provide healthy options like dog-safe vegetables (consult your vet if unsure which ones are safe).
- Prevent access to garbage, household toxins, plants, and objects that could be swallowed.
- Keep your dog secure by pet-proofing your yard and using a leash during outdoor activities.
Digestive issues are common in dogs, and most will experience stomach upset at some point. By taking these precautions and seeking veterinary care early when needed, you can help maintain your dog's health.
