Gastritis in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

If your dog is throwing up, refusing to eat, or acting like their stomach is in knots, gastritis might be the culprit. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from an inflamed stomach lining, causing discomfort and digestive upset. The good news? With the right care, most cases of gastritis are treatable. Let’s dive into what causes gastritis in dogs, the telltale symptoms, and how you can help your pup feel better.

What Causes Gastritis in Dogs?

Gastritis can be either acute (sudden and short-term) or chronic (long-lasting). Here are some of the most common causes:

• Dietary indiscretion – Also known as the “garbage gut,” dogs love to scavenge and may eat spoiled food, garbage, or foreign objects, leading to stomach irritation.
• Food allergies or intolerance – Some dogs have sensitive stomachs and may react poorly to certain ingredients in their diet.
• Infections – Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can cause stomach inflammation.
• Toxins and medications – Ingesting toxins (like household cleaners, human medications, or toxic plants) or prolonged use of NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or aspirin) can lead to gastritis.
• Chronic diseases – Conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can cause ongoing stomach issues.
• Stress – Anxiety and stress can contribute to digestive upset, leading to a flare-up of gastritis symptoms.

Symptoms of Gastritis in Dogs

Gastritis symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the underlying cause. Watch out for:

• Vomiting – Sometimes with bile, foam, or blood
• Loss of appetite – Your dog might refuse food or eat much less than usual
• Lethargy – A lack of energy or enthusiasm
• Abdominal pain – Some dogs may whimper, hunch over, or show discomfort when touched
• Dehydration – From excessive vomiting and reduced water intake
• Diarrhea – Often accompanied by mucus or blood
• Excessive drooling – A sign of nausea
• Gurgling stomach noises – Increased gut activity due to inflammation

If your dog’s symptoms persist for more than 24 hours or if they show signs of severe illness (such as bloody vomit, extreme weakness, or collapse), it’s time for an urgent vet visit.

Treating Gastritis in Dogs

The treatment plan depends on the severity and underlying cause of gastritis. Here’s what your vet may recommend:

1. Fasting and a Bland Diet

For mild cases, withholding food for 12–24 hours allows the stomach to rest. After fasting, introduce a bland diet like boiled chicken and rice or a prescription gastrointestinal diet.

2. Hydration is Key

Dehydration is a big concern with gastritis. Encourage your dog to drink small amounts of water frequently. In severe cases, your vet may administer IV fluids.

3. Medications to Soothe the Stomach

Depending on the cause, your vet might prescribe:

• Antacids (like famotidine or omeprazole) to reduce stomach acid
• Anti-nausea medications to control vomiting
• Antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present
• Probiotics to support gut health

4. Identifying and Removing Triggers

If food allergies or intolerances are to blame, switching to a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diet can help. Avoid table scraps, toxic substances, and anything your dog shouldn’t eat.

5. Addressing Underlying Conditions

If gastritis is linked to chronic illnesses like kidney disease or IBD, long-term management and specialized diets will be necessary.

Preventing Gastritis in Dogs

Prevention is always better than treatment! Here’s how you can reduce the risk of gastritis:

• Monitor their diet – Stick to high-quality, well-balanced dog food and avoid table scraps. Cheap fillers and artificial ingredients in low-quality dog foods can contribute to stomach irritation over time.

• Keep trash and toxins out of reach – Use secure trash bins and dog-proof your home. Dogs are notorious for getting into things they shouldn’t, so keeping garbage, cleaning supplies, and small objects out of reach is crucial.

• Introduce new foods gradually – Sudden dietary changes can upset their stomach. If you’re switching dog food brands or adding new treats, transition slowly over a week to prevent digestive upset.

• Provide routine vet checkups – Regular exams can catch potential issues early. Your vet can assess your dog’s overall health and recommend dietary or lifestyle adjustments to prevent gastritis.

• Manage stress – A stable environment and enrichment activities help keep stress-related stomach issues at bay. Dogs thrive on routine, so sudden changes in their schedule, loud noises, or lack of mental stimulation can contribute to digestive distress.

• Encourage slow eating – Some dogs gulp their food too fast, leading to stomach upset. Slow-feeder bowls or puzzle feeders can help regulate their eating pace and reduce the risk of stomach irritation.

• Limit human food – While it’s tempting to share a snack, many human foods can trigger gastritis. Avoid feeding your dog spicy, fatty, or processed foods, as well as known toxins like chocolate, onions, and grapes.

• Ensure proper parasite control – Intestinal parasites can contribute to chronic gastritis. Regular deworming and flea prevention treatments help keep your dog’s digestive system healthy.

• Keep fresh water available – Dehydration can worsen gastritis, so always ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water to support digestion and overall health.

• Provide chew-safe toys – Some dogs chew on anything they find, which can lead to ingesting harmful materials. Ensure your pup has safe chew toys to prevent accidental ingestion of foreign objects that could trigger gastritis.

By following these preventive measures, you can significantly lower your dog’s risk of developing gastritis and keep their digestive system in top shape.

Why Pet Insurance Matters

Gastritis can be an expensive condition to treat, especially if diagnostic tests, hospitalization, or long-term care are needed. Pet insurance helps cover unexpected veterinary bills, ensuring your dog gets the best care without financial stress. If you haven’t already considered pet insurance, now is the perfect time to explore your options—because your pup’s health and happiness are worth it!

By staying informed and proactive, you can help keep your furry friend’s stomach happy and healthy. If your dog is showing symptoms of gastritis, don’t wait—reach out to your vet and get them the care they need. And for peace of mind in the future, consider enrolling in a pet insurance plan today!

References:

1. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/gastritis-in-dogs
2. https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/digestive/c_dg_chronic_gastritis
3. Webb C, Twedt DC. Canine gastritis. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2003 Sep;33(5):969-85, v-vi. doi: 10.1016/s0195-5616(03)00052-4. PMID: 14552157; PMCID: PMC7124327.

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.