Mild digestive problems in dogs: causes, symptoms and how to fix them

Your dog’s digestive well-being is key

If you’ve ever noticed your dog having digestive discomfort, you know how distressing it can be. Watching your four-legged companion suffer from diarrhoea, vomiting or an upset stomach raises concerns and many questions: Is it serious? What can I do to help?

Digestive problems in dogs are more common than you might think and can be caused by anything from simple indigestion to food intolerances or more serious illnesses. In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes, the symptoms to look out for and the most effective solutions to improve your dog’s digestive health.

Why does my dog have digestive problems?

Dogs’ digestive systems are different from ours and, although they are designed to process a variety of foods, not all foods are good for them. A sensitive stomach may react negatively to certain ingredients, changes in diet or external factors such as stress.

Some breeds, such as the French Bulldog, Boxer or German Shepherd, are more prone to sensitive digestions. In addition, puppies and older dogs are often more vulnerable to digestive disorders.

Most common causes of digestive problems in dogs

There are many reasons why a dog may suffer from digestive disorders. Here are the most common ones:

1. Inadequate nutrition

Dogs need a balanced diet formulated specifically for them. Feeding them homemade food without veterinary supervision, giving them table scraps or choosing a poor quality food can lead to digestive problems.

2. Sudden changes in diet

If you change your dog’s food from one day to the next, his digestive system may suffer. The transition should be gradual, mixing the new food with the old one for at least 7 days to avoid gastrointestinal problems.

3.Food allergies or intolerances

Some dogs are intolerant to certain ingredients such as chicken, cereals or dairy. These intolerances may manifest themselves in chronic diarrhoea, vomiting or skin problems.

4. Intestinal parasites

Parasites such as worms or giardiasis can cause serious digestive problems. Regular stool analysis helps to detect and treat these infections early.

5. Ingestion of foreign objects

Dogs often chew and swallow objects they shouldn’t, such as toys, bones, plastic or clothing. This can lead to intestinal blockages that require urgent veterinary attention.

6. Stress and anxiety

Stress affects the digestive system of dogs, causing episodes of diarrhoea or vomiting. Factors such as changes in routine, moving house or the arrival of a new family member can trigger these problems.

Symptoms of digestive problems in dogs

If you notice any of these symptoms, your dog may have a digestive disorder:

• Diarrhoea or loose stools
• Recurrent vomiting
• Excessive flatulence
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain (shrinks or avoids being touched in the tummy)
• Decay or lack of energy

If these symptoms are occasional and mild, you can try to manage them at home. But if they last longer than 24-48 hours or severe signs such as blood in the faeces, dehydration or constant vomiting appear, you should see a vet.

How to treat digestive problems in dogs at home

If your dog has mild digestive discomfort, there are several steps you can take at home to help him recover:

1. Constant hydration

Diarrhoea and vomiting can quickly dehydrate a dog. Make sure he has access to clean, fresh water at all times. If he won’t drink, you can offer him unsalted chicken broth.

2. Probiotics and digestive supplements

Probiotics help restore intestinal flora and improve digestion. There are specific options for dogs that you can find in specialised shops or consult your vet.

When to see a vet?

Some digestive problems require immediate professional attention. Do not hesitate to take your dog to the vet if you notice:

• Persistent diarrhoea or vomiting (more than 24-48 hours).
• Blood in the stool or vomiting
• Fever or signs of severe pain
• Obvious dehydration (dry gums, extreme lethargy)
• Sudden weight loss

The vet may perform tests such as blood tests, ultrasound or x-rays to determine the exact cause of the problem.

How to improve your dog’s digestive health

Prevention is always better than cure. To keep your dog’s digestion healthy, follow these recommendations:

1. Adequate and balanced nutrition

Choosing a quality food is key to digestive health. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, it is best to opt for a food designed specifically for this, such as

Choosing a quality food is key to digestive health. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, it is best to opt for a food designed specifically for this, such as Picart Select Diet Gastrointestinal.

This food is formulated for dogs with sensitive digestions, helping to improve nutrient absorption and reduce stomach upset. It also has highly digestible ingredients to help restore intestinal balance.

2. Gradual introduction of novel foods

If you need to change their food, do it progressively to avoid alterations in their intestinal flora.

3. Avoiding dangerous human food

Chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes and other foods can cause serious poisoning. Keep these products out of reach.

4.Regular veterinary checks

Regular check-ups and regular deworming are essential to prevent digestive problems.

A happy stomach, a happy dog

Digestive problems in dogs can be bothersome for them and for us, but with proper nutrition and care, they can be prevented and managed effectively.

If your dog has a sensitive stomach, remember that a balanced and specialised diet, such as Picart Select Diet Gastrointestinal,

can make all the difference to their well-being. At the end of the day, a healthy, happy dog is the best reflection of healthy digestion. 😊