Most dog owners have experienced the most common effects of their pet having digestive problems: vomiting and diarrhea. The causes of these unpleasant symptoms can range from a virus that will quickly pass, to a blockage caused by the dog swallowing a foreign object, or even a more serious disease such as cancer.
Thankfully, when a dog exhibits such symptoms, more often than not, it’s a condition that is easily treated and will resolve quickly. Still, if your dog is experiencing stomach problems, it’s important to take him to the vet right away to ensure he receives the proper treatment.
Some causes of digestive problems cannot be avoided, no matter how diligent a pet owner is about keeping their dog safe. Diseases can strike, and when they do, all you can do is follow your vet’s advice to help nurse your dog back to health.
Other causes, however, can be avoided, and pet owners should be aware of what is harmful to their dog so they can help prevent exposure to dangerous substances.
Common Causes of Digestive Problems in Dogs
Vomiting is a way for the body to rid itself of harmful substances. If a dog eats something that the body recognizes as harmful, it will induce vomiting. This is actually a good thing (though you may not agree while scrubbing stains off the sofa), because it can potentially save your dog’s life.
A good example of this is when a dog eats chocolate. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. In sufficient quantities, this toxin affects a dog’s nervous and cardiovascular systems, as well as some peripheral nerves. However, because the body recognizes it as poison, vomiting will occur.
If vomiting does not happen quickly, the dog may die. Because the body can purge the toxin through vomiting, many dogs who ingest theobromine are able to recover.
This is an example of vomiting acting as a defense mechanism to rid the body of a harmful substance. As a pet owner, it’s crucial to help ensure that your dog does not ingest anything toxic.
Any substance that is toxic to dogs can cause vomiting and diarrhea. When your dog has digestive problems, poisoning should be considered a potential cause. Some foods that may seem like a treat for your dog can actually be harmful. While many pet owners enjoy giving their pets table scraps, some dogs cannot handle the change in diet, which can lead to digestive problems.
It’s best to keep your dog on a consistent diet. Talk to your vet about how much food is appropriate based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level. It’s okay to give your dog treats, but pay attention to any digestive changes. Some dogs seem to be able to eat anything without issue, while others have a more delicate digestive system.
There are certain substances that are almost always harmful to dogs, and great care should be taken to ensure your pet does not come into contact with them. Some of these substances include:
- Chocolate
- Antifreeze
- Drugs of any kind (other than those prescribed by a vet)
- Cleaning liquids
- Certain houseplants and outdoor plants
- Insecticides
- Gasoline, kerosene
If you think your dog has ingested a harmful substance, contact your vet immediately. In some cases, the solution may be to induce vomiting, but with some types of poisoning, doing so could harm your dog further. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING UNLESS ADVISED BY YOUR VET.
Another cause of digestive problems is overeating. While humans love to indulge on holidays, don’t let your dog consume much more than their normal daily intake, no matter the occasion. If you give your dog a huge bowl of “special” food, they are likely to eat all of it. This can lead to vomiting and diarrhea because their body isn’t accustomed to that much food. For this reason, it’s best to feed your dog the same amounts at the same times each day.
Swallowing a foreign object is another common cause of digestive issues. This can create a blockage in the digestive tract, causing your dog to regurgitate food before it reaches the stomach. To prevent this, owners should limit their dog’s access to small toys, string, bones, and other items that could be harmful. If you think your dog has swallowed something dangerous, take them to the vet as soon as possible.
When to Seek Veterinary Help
Digestive problems can also occur due to disease. The illness could be as temporary as a virus or something more chronic, such as inflammatory bowel disease or cancer. Only your vet can determine what disease is causing the issues. Never try to diagnose or treat the problem on your own.
In many cases, quick diagnosis and treatment are key to a full recovery. Even if the problem is not disease-related, it’s important to prioritize your dog’s well-being and seek relief from their unpleasant symptoms as soon as possible.
The bottom line is that digestive problems in dogs are never normal and should never be ignored. If you notice your dog suffering from any digestive issues, take them to the vet immediately. Getting prompt treatment could be the difference between life and death.
