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Is your dog suddenly refusing meals, vomiting, or experiencing bouts of diarrhea? These signs might point to gastritis, a common yet concerning condition in dogs that involves inflammation of the stomach lining. While it can be mild and short-lived, severe or chronic cases require prompt attention to ensure your furry friend feels better quickly and avoids complications.
⚠️ What to Watch For
Gastritis can show up in different ways depending on its severity and cause. Recognizing the symptoms early can help you take appropriate action before your dog’s condition worsens.
Common symptoms of gastritis in dogs include:
- Frequent vomiting, sometimes with bile or blood
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy or reduced energy
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Excessive drooling
- Dehydration due to fluid loss
If your dog is exhibiting any of these signs, it’s important to monitor their behavior closely. Mild cases of gastritis may resolve on their own, but prolonged or severe symptoms warrant veterinary attention.
🔍 Possible Causes
Gastritis in dogs can be triggered by a variety of factors. Some are preventable, while others may require medical intervention. Here are the most common causes:
- Ingesting spoiled food, garbage, or toxic substances
- Dietary indiscretion, such as eating non-food items
- Food allergies or intolerances
- Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites
- Medications like NSAIDs or corticosteroids
- Stress or anxiety
- Underlying conditions like kidney disease, pancreatitis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Some cases of gastritis may have no identifiable cause, which is referred to as idiopathic gastritis. A veterinarian can help determine the underlying issue through diagnostics and a detailed history of your dog’s symptoms.
✅ What You Can Do at Home
If your dog’s symptoms are mild and they’re otherwise acting normally, there are steps you can take at home to help soothe their stomach and promote recovery. These home care tips should only be used for mild cases—severe symptoms or prolonged illness require veterinary care.
- Withhold food for 12–24 hours to allow the stomach to rest.
- Provide small amounts of water to prevent dehydration, but avoid overloading their stomach.
- After fasting, introduce a bland diet like boiled chicken and plain white rice in small, frequent meals.
- Monitor for improvement over the next 24–48 hours.
It’s important to avoid giving your dog human medications like antacids or pain relievers unless directed by a veterinarian. Some medications can be harmful to pets, even in small doses.
According to the ASPCA, substances like ibuprofen and acetaminophen are toxic to dogs (source).
💡 When to Call a Vet
While some cases of gastritis are mild and self-limiting, others require immediate veterinary attention to prevent serious complications. Here’s when you should contact your vet:
- Vomiting persists for more than 24 hours
- There is blood in the vomit or stool
- Your dog shows signs of severe pain or bloating
- They are lethargic or unable to keep water down
- Dehydration is evident (e.g., dry gums, sunken eyes)
- Symptoms occur in a puppy, senior dog, or a pet with pre-existing conditions
A vet may recommend diagnostic tests like bloodwork, x-rays, or ultrasounds to pinpoint the cause of gastritis and tailor a treatment plan. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary for IV fluids, medications, and close monitoring.
FAQs
Q: Can I give my dog over-the-counter medications for an upset stomach?
A: No, you should never give your dog human medications without consulting a veterinarian. Many over-the-counter drugs can be toxic to pets, even in small amounts. Speak to your vet about safe treatment options.
Q: How can I prevent gastritis in my dog?
A: To reduce the risk of gastritis, keep your dog away from garbage, table scraps, and toxic substances. Feed them a balanced, high-quality diet and avoid abrupt changes in food. Regular check-ups can also help catch any underlying conditions early.
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.
