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As a dog parent, it is almost a guarantee that your dog will experience digestive issues at some point in time.
Whether it’s mild stomach upset or something more serious, we’ll help you understand the symptoms, causes, and treatments for digestive problems in dogs.
Symptoms of Canine Digestive Issues
Because many of the symptoms below are non-specific, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian about any gastrointestinal issues in your pup, as they can advise you on the best steps to best care for them.
Diarrhea
One of the most noticeable signs of digestive problems in dogs is diarrhea, the term for loose, watery stools. Diarrhea in dogs can be a passing symptom and resolve within a day or so. However, if your dog’s diarrhea lasts for more than 24 hours or worsens, you should take them to the nearest animal hospital or call a veterinarian for a home visit.
Vomiting
Frequent or persistent vomiting in dogs is also a red flag for gastrointestinal distress in dogs. It's important to identify the cause and seek appropriate treatment. Most dogs recover from vomiting well without medication, but if they seem lethargic or aren't eating or drinking, it’s best to get them checked by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Loss of Appetite
A noticeable decrease in appetite could suggest an upset stomach, but can also be a sign that something is going on with your dog health-wise. Monitor their eating habits and share them with your veterinarian.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain in dogs is associated with stomach upset but can also indicate an obstruction or other serious health condition.
If your dog seems to be in pain, as evidenced by panting, hiding, shaking, whining/vocalizing, or recurring stretching, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Flatulence
As any pet parent knows, a certain amount of flatulence is to be expected. However, excess gas can also be a symptom of an upset stomach or food intolerance. While occasional gas is normal, persistent flatulence may indicate an issue.
Constipation
Difficulty in passing stools or infrequent bowel movements can be signs of digestive issues. It could be as simple as needing to make a dietary change, but constipation should be addressed with veterinary guidance to avoid complications.
Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
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Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
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Causes of Digestive Issues in Dogs
Digestive issues in dogs is a common reason why we see a pet for a Sick Visit or Telemedicine Consultation.
Keep reading: How to Tell if a Dog is Sick
While it’s usually a case of short-term symptoms, it’s important to rule out other more chronic conditions.
Food Allergies
Dogs can develop allergies to certain ingredients in their food, usually the protein source, which can lead to digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Identifying and eliminating allergens is the first step in helping your pup to feel better.
Accidental Ingestion
Let’s face it - dogs love getting into things they shouldn’t, whether it’s garbage or something they spot while out for a walk.
If you don’t know what your dog ate and they are showing signs such as behavioral changes, vomiting, or diarrhea, take your dog to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic.
Stress
Just like humans, stress can also impact a dog's digestive system. Changes in environment, routine, or the introduction of a new pet or baby can trigger stress-related digestive issues in your dog.
Make sure to provide your pup with a safe spot with familiar items, and give them plenty of attention. Our in-home veterinarians can also make more specific recommendations for stress reduction during a Behavioral Consultation.
Dietary Changes
Abrupt changes in a dog’s diet can lead to stomach upset. A gradual transition from the old food to the new over 1 to 2 weeks can help make the switch easier on your dog’s belly.
Even the addition of a new treat or consumption of human food can trigger stomach upset in some dogs.
Vomiting Bilious Syndrome
Prolonged periods between meals can lead to vomiting of bile in some dogs. Typically there are no other symptoms associated with vomiting and this usually occurs in the wee hours of the morning before breakfast.
Splitting evening meals and feeding a portion right before bed can help reduce the recurrence.
Illnesses and Diseases
Along with the more routine causes of digestive issues in dogs are specific medical conditions which share some of the same symptoms, along with some new ones.
It’s important to recognize the signs, so that your veterinarian can rule out any of the illnesses and diseases below.
Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV or Bloat)
GDV is a life-threatening condition in dogs that requires immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms include a swollen abdomen, restlessness, weakness, pale gums, drooling, and dry heaving.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is an Inflammation of the pancreas that can lead to digestive issues in dogs. If your pet is diagnosed with this condition, your veterinarian may recommend a low-fat diet and medication as part of their treatment plan or hospitalization for more severe cases.
Intestinal Blockages
A very serious situation in dogs, intestinal blockages are caused when a dog Ingests an object they cannot pass, which can block the intestines. Surgery may be necessary for removal. If your dog ate a foreign object, vomits immediately every time they drink or eat, or is throwing up yellow bile, these could be signs of a blockage requiring immediate emergency care.
Acute Gastroenteritis
Acute gastroenteritis in dogs, or Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, can be caused by an infection of a foreign object, or disease. Symptoms include vomiting (often with yellow bile) and diarrhea. Treatment may include a bland diet and prescription medication.
Colitis
Colitis is another name for Inflammation of the colon, and can also present with diarrhea and abdominal pain. Dietary changes and medication are commonly treatments for colitis.
How to Treat Digestive Issues in Dogs
Veterinary guidance is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Effective treatment depends on the specific issue, but may include:
- Medication
- Dietary changes
- Pain management
- Surgery
Home Remedies for Canine Digestive Issues
It’s important to first consult with your veterinarian to determine the cause of your pet’s digestive issues. However, there are some measures you can do at home to help your pup to feel more comfortable. Home remedies may include:
- A bland diet
- Increased water intake
- Hot packs
- Pepto Bismol or antacids (only under your veterinarian’s supervision)
Conclusion
While stomach upset and digestive symptoms are common in dogs, proper diagnosis and monitoring is important to helping your pup return to good health. Our in-home and virtual veterinarians are available to consult with whenever you have questions or concerns about your dog’s digestive health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if your dog has a digestive problem?
Many of the signs and symptoms of dog digestive problems can be found in the above blog post. The next step would be to consult with your veterinarian to confirm a diagnosis.
How can I help my dog with digestive problems?
There are comfort measures (see above) you can offer your dog at home while they are recovering from a digestive issue or illness, but should be approved by your veterinarian first.
What symptoms indicate that your dog's digestive problems are an emergency?
If your dog has ingested a foreign object, is vomiting or having diarrhea frequently, is not drinking water, or is demonstrating additional behavior changes or signs of pain, these are all reasons to seek emergency care immediately.
What are signs of poor gut health in dogs?
Some common signs of poor gut health in dogs include diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, drooling, excessive gas, weight loss, reduced appetite, and mucus in the stools. These symptoms can also be a sign of a serious health condition that should be addressed right away.
Can digestive issues cause seizures in dogs?
There is some research on canine epilepsy that suggests that gastroenteritis imbalances may contribute to the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs with the condition.
