What causes digestive issues in dogs?
Doggy Day Care at the Willows
There’s nothing more worrying then when your furry companion has a digestive problem. Sometimes this is down to diet, but other times this could be an infection or illness. We look at what causes digestive issues in dogs and how to spot typical symptoms.
Common symptoms of digestive problems in dogs
When your dog has a digestive problem, the usual signs are vomiting, diarrhoea or constipation. However, if your dog is drooling excessively or has a loss of appetite, these are also possible signs that something is wrong. You might even notice that your dog is straining to go to the toilet, or their body seems bloated. They might seem stressed or uncomfortable.
Dogs are susceptible to a range of problems similar to humans, including food allergies, gastroenteritis and genetic conditions. Pay close attention to how your dog is behaving and call the vet if you believe they’re having difficulties.
Parasite infections in dogs
One of the most common causes of digestive issues in dogs is through a parasitic infection. Different infections will cause different reactions. Intestinal worms, for example, can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and weight loss in dogs. There are different types of intestinal worms and some like roundworm can cause serious issues. It’s important that puppies receive worming treatments regularly. Adult dogs should be wormed at least four times a year.
Danger foods for dogs
There are certain foods that can be harmful to a dog. At best they will cause digestive issues, but at worst they could be fatal. Chocolate is very toxic to dogs, which can result in seizures, while grapes, sultanas and raisins can affect their kidneys. Fruit stones and pips, avocados, and certain types of nuts can also be poisonous to a dog. If you believe your dog has eaten something they shouldn’t have, call your vet for guidance. For more information on dangerous foods for dogs, please read our previous blog 7 Poisonous Foods For Dogs.
Avoid giving dogs festive human treats
Knowing what to feed your dog will help you prevent any potentially nasty digestive issues. Whether it’s Christmas or another celebration, keep an eye out for friends and family who are trying to give your dog a sneaky treat. It’s worth educating others to ensure your dog stays fit and healthy. If you need ideas for what to give your dog as a safe, healthy treat, please read our blog, 5 Ideas For Good Dog Treats.
Fully trained Doggy Daycare Assistants
At Doggy Daycare at the Willows, our fully trained team of Doggy Daycare Assistants will ensure your dog only eats the right treats. However, please let us know immediately if you suspect your dog is suffering from a digestive issue. If the problem is contagious, we need to protect the health of our other doggy day care guests. It’s a condition of our services that all dogs are fully wormed and vaccinated before coming to us. Always speak to your local vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s health.
Want to learn more about our doggy day care services? Get in touch for a chat with our friendly team.
Thank you for reading our latest blog, What causes digestive issues in dogs?
Sources
https://www.msdvetmanual.com/dog-owners/digestive-disorders-of-dogs/gastrointestinal-parasites-of-dogs
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/parasites-in-dogs
https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/health-and-injuries/intestinal-worms-in-dogs