Companion Animals

Companion Dog Gastrointestinal Health

Gastrointestinal disease is among the most common reasons for veterinary visits in dogs, causing significant suffering from vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain that ranges from acute to chronic.

Key Facts

Dietary indiscretion (eating inappropriate material) is the most common cause of acute GI disease in dogs
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and food intolerance cause chronic GI suffering in a significant proportion of dogs
The microbiome of dogs fed raw food differs significantly from those fed commercially processed diets
Acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome (AHDS) can be fatal within hours without intravenous treatment

Welfare Considerations

Dogs with GI disease experience nausea, cramping and the distress of uncontrolled vomiting and defaecation. Chronic IBD causes persistent discomfort that affects appetite, weight and quality of life. Dehydration from acute GI disease causes rapid deterioration in small dogs. The welfare of GI-diseased dogs depends on rapid veterinary assessment and appropriate dietary and medical management.

What You Can Do

Seek veterinary attention for any dog that vomits more than twice in 24 hours or has bloody diarrhoea
Transition between diets gradually over 7-10 days to reduce GI upset from dietary change
Prevent access to rubbish, compost and wildlife droppings that cause dietary indiscretion
Discuss food-responsive GI conditions with your vet before attempting elimination diets independently