Intestinal problems in dogs

Dog diarrhoea

The most common and recognisable condition is diarrhoea. The dog has loose stool and has to go outside more often than usual. Diarrhoea can have multiple causes, such as:

• Virus infection
• Worms or other parasites
• Allergy/hypersensitivity to a nutrient

What to do if the dog has diarrhoea?

Blockage

As mentioned, diarrhoea can have various causes. For example, the dog may try to poop but nothing comes out. It may not be the first thing you would think of, but the dog might have an intestinal blockage. Some watery loose stool can seep past the blockage, but dry stool is stuck on the inside, or an object is blocking the exit.

In suspected constipation, a vet may prescribe a laxative. But if the blockage is caused by an object, the dog may need surgery.

If the dog often suffers from constipation due to hard stool, consider feeding a diet rich in fibre. Fibre keeps the intestines active and attracts moisture, making the stool less dry and therefore easier to leave the body.

Bowel problems

Some dogs have chronic bowel problems. This is also known as IBD, inflammatory bowel disease. This can be caused by the dog having an intolerance to a certain nutrient or bacteria. It is up to the vet to determine the exact cause of the intestinal problems. You can switch to a more suitable diet after a diagnosis.

Relieving the dog’s intestinal problems

Dogs that have very sensitive intestines often benefit from special food that burdens the intestines as little as possible. This food consists of easily digestible nutrients so the dog can absorb the necessary substances from its food without too much effort.

You don’t have to worry straight of the bat if your dog’s bowel movements suddenly change. If the change persists, or if it returns regularly, it is advisable to have the stool examined for the presence of parasites and bacteria and, if necessary, to have additional examinations carried out by the vet.