Common Dog Digestive Problems

1. Introduction

Digestive issues are common in dogs, and if left untreated, they can lead to severe health problems. A dog's digestive system is integral to their overall health. A malfunctioning digestive system can cause uncomfortable tummy trouble and, if left unchecked, lead to serious health problems. Dogs with digestive problems shouldn't be written off as chronic daily pukers. Symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea might just be the tip of the iceberg — outward signs of a deeper problem. This text examines the most common dog digestive symptoms. The scope is limited to straightforward symptoms of gastrointestinal disease, specifically in the small bowel and large bowel. If left unresolved, any of these dog digestive symptoms can seriously impact our pets' health. In addition, some of the treatments carry major risks and side effects. If your dog has any of the following symptoms, take her to the vet without delay. A healthy dog should have a healthy appetite, so if your dog is eating less than usual and showing other symptoms, that's a red flag. This text is designed for informational purposes only and should never replace advice from your vet. Only your vet can offer a diagnosis or treatments tailored to your dog's clinical history.

1.1. Overview of the Canine Digestive System

If you are reading this, chances are you are a dog lover and owner or that you are involved in the pet care industry. This means that you already know the importance of proper canine nutrition, but before we go into the details of some common dog digestive issues, I believe it is important to take a quick tour of the canine digestive system. The anatomy of the canine digestive system resembles that of most carnivores. Like humans and many other animals, dogs are heterotrophic, meaning they cannot synthesize all they need from inorganic substances available in the environment, so they must eat, digest, and absorb organic substances. They are different from humans due to their nutrient and energy requirements, physiology, selective nutrients, and adaptability from wild scavengers to modern pets.

The continuous tube that is the digestive system—composed of the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine—runs through the body and is the primary site of hormone production, digestion, and absorption of nutrients. It is also called the gut and the alimentary canal. The liver and pancreas, which produce valuable digestive secretions such as bile and pancreatic juice, are considered accessory organs to the digestive system. The liver makes bile, which is a digestive secretion to help break down fats. Bile is stored within the gallbladder and released into the small intestine as needed. The pancreas produces pancreatic juice, which contains digestive enzymes and helps in the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. The primary function of the digestive system includes breaking down ingested food into substances that can be absorbed into the bloodstream and delivered to cells, and finally, unabsorbed processes are excreted from the body in feces.

2. Symptoms of Digestive Problems

Digestive problems are incredibly common in dogs and can take many different forms. Some of the most common symptoms that show there is something wrong with a dog’s digestive health include vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, general discomfort, and lethargy. However, dogs can express their symptoms in many more subtle or atypical ways that can often go unnoticed or be attributed to other concerns. Keeping a watchful eye on a pet’s behavior for any deviation from normal patterns is important for catching digestive problems in the early stages, when they are less serious and much easier to deal with. The emotional health of a dog is also directly linked to their digestion, and abnormal digestive symptoms can and do cause them anxiety, depression, stress, and other emotional disturbances. Many pet owners report that changes due to digestive upsets are among the most difficult to manage.
Digestive issues in dogs cover a wide range and may include:
- Appetite loss
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Excessive gas
- Straining during bowel movements
- Blood or mucus in stool
These symptoms might signal digestive issues like gastroenteritis, colitis, stress-related diarrhea, or constipation. According to Dr. Johnson, vomiting and diarrhea are some of the most common signs of digestive problems, while other symptoms like appetite loss, bloating, and changes in stool consistency can also provide clues. Some dogs might experience gas, but Dr. Johnson notes this isn’t usually a cause for concern unless it’s paired with other signs. Look out for any of the following symptoms of digestive problems in dogs:
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Blood or mucus in stool
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Reduced appetite or inability to eat
- Lethargy, fever, or depression in severe cases
These indicators help you recognize potential issues early so your dog can get the care they need to feel their best.

Dogs suffering from problems such as loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea will exhibit their symptoms based on what level of discomfort they are feeling and how long it has been happening. Also, symptoms can vary greatly from dog to dog, and even from different problems with the same dog. Vomiting and diarrhea can have many different underlying causes. It is important to take into account all the details of your dog’s particular behaviors and seek veterinary care as quickly as possible if your dog is having difficulty.

If your dog’s appetite suddenly shifts or they become a bit picky, it might just be their natural unpredictability. But it could also be a sign of an underlying health issue. When in doubt, it’s best to consult a vet for peace of mind. If their symptoms don’t seem digestive in nature, there are other signs to watch for that might point to different health issues.

2.1. Vomiting and Diarrhea

Vomiting is the regurgitation of the contents of the stomach and can be mild, such as seeing a meal or something that doesn’t agree, or it can be very severe, resulting in dehydration and seen in a range of diseases from the digestive system to other organ systems. Diarrhea is the excretion of large amounts of feces with a liquid to semi-solid consistency, often getting heavier or looser as the amount of disease increases. The common cause of diarrhea is dysbiosis, a condition in which harmful bacteria overrun beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. Long-term or severe diarrhea can result in dehydration, noticeable by reduced skin turgor.

Vomiting is merely the regurgitation of the contents of the stomach, while if it contains feces or blood, it is usually referred to as vomiting. If feces are reported with vomiting, it is usually diarrhea and should be referred to as such. Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the lining of the intestines. It is commonly associated with an infection, often a foodborne illness or gastritis. An inflammation of the lining of the stomach is useful to categorize vomiting and diarrhea as severe or mild. Some cases can range between the two categories. It is up to the discretion of the veterinarian to determine how to categorize.

Treatment at home needs to be avoided for severe vomiting and diarrhea until it can be ruled out that the pet doesn’t have pancreatitis, bloat, peritonitis, or an intestinal obstruction. Severely sick pets are best handled by a veterinarian to make this determination. Case by case is the best recommendation for a phone consult.

3. Causes of Digestive Problems

Dog digestion is a complex process that relies on food particles being broken down and absorbed in the stomach and intestines for the supply of energy and nutrients to the body. While most dogs maintain optimal digestive function, several factors can contribute to digestive problems in dogs. This includes hypermotility and foreign body obstructions. Infections can alter the microbiome of the gut and subsequent fermentation, while pre-existing illness can decrease digestive function and/or cause inflammation. Parasitic infestation can also cause digestive problems. Another noteworthy cause of digestive upsets is diet, with dogs often being presented to a vet for tummy upsets caused by the consumption of poor-quality pet foods. To be part of a preventative or management regime, an understanding of 'normal' dog food digestion and the potential causes of dietary digestive intolerance is required. This allows dog owners to know what to either avoid and/or what treatment strategy to use. This initial point about dietary factors being important in digestive problems aside, the conditions associated with poor digestive function can help in deciding on the best treatment advice. In practice, a single therapy is often not sufficient as many digestive problems are multifactorial in origin. It should also be recognized that some of these conditions are potentially life-threatening and may result in long-lasting physical damage, especially when so-called 'foreign body obstructions' occur in the stomach or the gut.

3.1. Dietary Factors

Dogs, like humans, are omnivorous, and their digestive system is designed to handle a wide variety of different food types. They are also scavengers, which means their bodies have adapted to eating all kinds of scraps and waste. Despite this, there are some dietary factors that can lead to digestive problems.

Dogs can suffer from some of the same dietary issues as humans, such as:

Food intolerance/incompatibility

A dog needs a balanced diet that provides all the nutrients they need to be healthy. Like humans, dogs can develop deficiencies of certain vitamins and elements, as well as gastrointestinal upset if they do not eat a balanced diet or have any underlying health problems leading to malnutrition. Some human foods can make dogs ill, and some are highly toxic. Dogs prefer routines and are usually very aware of their meal times. They sometimes refuse food slightly just before mealtimes to get something more exciting. It is sensible not to drop the last portion of your meal in their bowl and let them have it. Full-fat or highly seasoned meals can all contribute to a dog getting ill due to pancreatitis. While some dogs can handle dietary changes, for many dogs it is sensible to stick to their usual feeding regime. Some people prefer to free-feed their dogs, but some breeds, particularly deep-chested breeds, are prone to developing gastric dilatation and volvulus if they eat too much food and then run around.

4. Treatment and Management

One of the veterinary doctors should admit the importance of diagnosing the exact problem with the dog. Based on the symptoms, the doctor can arrange a treatment plan for your dog's digestive problems. Treatment can be suggested by the doctor with respect to diagnoses. When the dog receives treatment at the hospital, the veterinarian will start to hydrate the dog. The dog should have access to fresh and clean water whenever he is thirsty. In case your dog has chronic vomiting, an antiemetic drug will be intravenously injected. Antiemetics function to prevent vomiting for a certain period of time to start the healing process in the stomach. Within 24 to 48 hours, most dogs will be able to retain food in their stomach, and the capability of absorbing food will increase.

When the dog is ready to be sent back home, the veterinarian will give you information about when, how much, and what type of food you should feed your dog during this period, such as bland food and water. Based on the clinical improvement of your dog, you will need to attend follow-up checks and take care of him or her as an outpatient. If your dog is getting better, a full diet should be gradually started, feeding up to three to five small portions over one to two days. In the advanced stage of your dog, amending a suitable diet includes feeding high-fiber or low-residue diets to avoid fecal problems. Some types of diarrhea may require antimicrobial or antiparasitic agents or gastrointestinal prokinetics. Long-term management of your dog's digestive system, preventing the occurrence or recurrence in the future, can also be arranged by changing your pet's lifestyle and environment. Administration of a suitable diet and treating your dog for stress-related problems is recommended in all cases.

4.1. Veterinary Care and Medications

Veterinary Care

Veterinarians play an important role in addressing digestive problems in dogs. Usually, veterinary care is needed to diagnose and treat the causes of chronic diseases. To determine the underlying cause, veterinarians will obtain a thorough patient history and perform examinations, tests, or both. The role of the results of laboratory testing and imaging cannot be overemphasized. Labs may include evaluation of stool samples, blood, urine, and biopsy samples of the pancreas, small intestine, and liver. Radiography and ultrasound evaluation may be used to examine the structure and function of the digestive organs, such as the stomach, pancreas, liver, and small intestine. It is important to distinguish between acute, chronic, and secondary symptoms in order to recommend treatments uniquely suited to each individual situation.

Medications

Treatment medications proposed specifically for chronic vomiting may include antiemetics, stomach protectants, prokinetic therapy, and pain relief. Additional medication options include antibiotics, hypoallergenic diets, supplements of pancreatic enzymes, fiber additives, and anti-diarrhea products, to name a few. There are pros and cons for each of these therapies, and the most appropriate medication for each pet depends on the underlying cause of vomiting concern, potential side effects of the medication, and the dog’s current medication needs. Veterinary consultation, perhaps with an animal nutritionist or dog behavior counselor, may also be of help to discuss potential triggers of digestive disease, the suitability of supplements or other remedies, and the potential role of lifestyle changes or alternative diagnostic procedures. Knowing that both medications and environmental factors could influence diagnostic results and treatment trials, ask questions and clarify your expectations and beliefs about caring for your dog with your veterinarian. Long-term management may require re-evaluation and revising and/or re-evaluation of the diagnostic plan, ongoing treatments, and assessments where the root cause is not yet identified. Digging deeper to find a long-term recovery can take time, patience, more invasive procedures, and increased cost.

5. Prevention and Maintenance

Prevention is key, and maintaining regular habits can help keep your dog's digestive system in tip-top shape both regularly and in the long-term future. A majority of organs and body functions are involved in the digestion of food, which is why these organs require gentle care. One of the most important components to promoting a healthy digestive system is a balanced diet. Establish a feeding routine for your dog and follow it consistently, asking your vet for recommendations based on your dog's age, size, and health history. Be vigilant in recognizing early signs of disinterest or health problems in your dog, such as changes in eating, drinking, or litter box habits. Keep the environment clean and free from access to objects that could make your dog very sick if ingested, such as personal care items, chemicals, medications, and a number of household foods that are toxic to dogs. Regular checkups with your vet can also help you head off a variety of animal health problems before they become severe.

To help your dog maintain health and wellness, it's important to ensure they get proper amounts of daily exercise, receive their necessary vaccinations and deworming, drink plenty of clean water throughout the day, and continue learning about dog nutrition and health. Engaging in activities that educate you about pets and animal health can help you better understand habits that are detrimental to your dog's well-being, such as feeding dogs human food. Human food that is healthy for humans may still adversely affect the digestive system in dogs. Staying in contact with veterinarians or a local pet clinic can help you connect with like-minded animal lovers and professionals, such as veterinarians, vet techs, and dogs that are healthy and active. With ongoing care and attention, you are sure to provide your furry friend with regular and nurturing assistance.

5.1. Proper Nutrition and Diet

The importance of nutrition in maintaining long-term digestive health has led to the idea that a balanced diet is essential. Major nutritional components include proteins, fats, and more than a hundred grams of carbohydrates. To some extent, the quality of commercial dog food is regulated by relevant authorities, as the nutritional content of different brands may vary. In general, experts point to the use of commercially available pet food as the preferred choice for the busy nature of modern society because it is specifically designed to meet the anatomical and physiological needs of dogs. In this regard, many high-quality commercial dog feeds contain the vitamins and minerals that are common for a good, nutritious diet, and pets who eat this diet consistently look healthy.

Although there are many debates among nutritionists, academics, and breeders, it is true that it is possible to prepare balanced and nutritious meals for dogs with a homemade diet plan. Pet owners should also consider various factors such as budget, time spent shopping and preparing meals, nutritional needs, and pets' medical needs. The best-quality feeds include the best quality ingredients to ensure a dog's digestion, involving animal or plant sources of fats and proteins, a variety of fiber sources, and the administration of prebiotics. With the understanding of the important relationship between nutrition and digestive health, the next chapters are an attempt to help pet owners provide all the necessary resources for the best possible diet to keep their pet dogs healthy. A very important aspect of making a homemade diet is ensuring consistent nutrition. Dogs are creatures of habit, and consistent feeding with the same food is advantageous. The quality of the dog's food can be influenced by both the amount of food given and the nutritional value it carries. Balanced diets support the overall health and vitality of dogs, and every dog owner wants their dog to live a long and healthy life. Supplements can produce pet-safe, nutrition-friendly dietary supplements that can assist in digestion, strengthen a dog's digestive system, prevent certain illnesses, and maintain optimal health, helping them thrive.

References:

Pilla, R. & Suchodolski, J. S., 2020. The role of the canine gut microbiome and metabolome in health and gastrointestinal disease. Frontiers in veterinary science. frontiersin.org

Wernimont, S.M., Radosevich, J., Jackson, M.I., Ephraim, E., Badri, D.V., MacLeay, J.M., Jewell, D.E. and Suchodolski, J.S., 2020. The effects of nutrition on the gastrointestinal microbiome of cats and dogs: impact on health and disease. Frontiers in Microbiology, 11, p.1266. frontiersin.org

Schaer, M., Gaschen, F., & Walton, S., 2022. Clinical medicine of the dog and cat. [HTML]

Huang, Z., Pan, Z., Yang, R., Bi, Y., & Xiong, X., 2020. The canine gastrointestinal microbiota: early studies and research frontiers. Gut Microbes. tandfonline.com

Cave, N., Delaney, S.J. and Larsen, J.A., 2023. Nutritional management of gastrointestinal diseases. Applied veterinary clinical nutrition, pp.235-298. [HTML]

Pavlova, E., Gold, R.M., Tolbert, M.K. and Lidbury, J.A., 2021. Medical conditions associated with gastroduodenal ulceration or erosion in 168 dogs: 2008‐2018. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 35(6), pp.2697-2704. wiley.com

Suchodolski, J. S., 2022. Analysis of the gut microbiome in dogs and cats. Veterinary Clinical Pathology. wiley.com