How To Treat IBS, IBD & Colitis In Dogs Naturally
Straining to Defecate: Dogs with colitis, IBS, or IBD may show signs of discomfort or pain while trying to pass stool. Constant Urge To Go: Dogs with colitis often have a frequent urge to defecate, often resulting in small amounts of liquid diarrhea. In IBD, symptoms may affect both the small and large intestines, leading to more severe gastrointestinal distress. Abdominal Discomfort: Inflammation in the digestive tract often causes pain. Dogs may display signs of discomfort such as pacing, restlessness, or sensitivity when the abdomen is touched. Gas & Bloating: IBS can lead to excessive gas and bloating due to irregular movement of the intestines. This can also occur in IBD and colitis due to imbalances in the gut microbiome. Changes in the microbial balance may contribute to the production of gases that result in smelly dog farts. Malabsorption: In cases of canine colitis, the inflamed colon may have difficulty absorbing nutrients properly. Malabsorption can lead to undigested food particles reaching the large intestine, where they can produce canine flatulence and lead to weight loss. The consistency and appearance of a dog's poop can vary depending on whether they have colitis, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). The stool often reflects the underlying inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract. Overall, dogs may pass greater amounts of stool, which can range from nearly formed to liquid diarrhea. Common characteristics of stool in dogs with these conditions include: 
Blood: The presence of blood in the stool is a common feature of these conditions. Blood may appear as red streaks, clots, or cause the stool to have a reddish or dark, tarry appearance within the liquid or gooey consistency. Mucus: Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract can lead to the production of mucus, contributing to a slimy or gel-like consistency in the stool. Mucus in a dog's stool may appear light in color and stringy, adding to the overall mushy texture. Odor: The stool may have a more pungent or unpleasant odor due to the inflammation, presence of mucus, and changes in the normal digestive process. Color: Stool color can vary widely, ranging from normal brown to yellowish, greenish, or reddish-brown due to the presence of blood. Color changes are often linked to the underlying cause of inflammation or bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Bright red or dark tarry stools may indicate more serious bleeding and require prompt veterinary attention. Lymphoplasmacytic Enteritis: The most common form of IBD in dogs, this condition involves the infiltration of lymphocytes and plasma cells into the lining of the stomach and intestines, leading to inflammation that worsens over time. Eosinophilic Enteritis: Characterized by the infiltration of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, into the stomach and intestines. This form of IBD may be triggered by an allergic response to dietary proteins. Lymphangiectasia: Though not classified as IBD, lymphangiectasia is often grouped with it due to similar clinical signs. It involves the dilation and inflammation of lymphatic vessels in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to the loss of proteins through the intestines. This condition can result in secondary lymphangiectasia as a complication of severe and prolonged IBD. 
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"Thank you so much for your amazing products. In such a short amount of time, our nine year old Yorkie Maltese Mix started getting huge relief from Lymphangiectasia. She had less bloating and gas, no more diarrhea, more energy, put on weight and not as weak. These supplements seem to combat the negative side effects of her steroid medication. She has her energy back and you can tell she feels so much better. Thank you for saving my sweet Gracie girl. Sincere Thanks!" - Jennifer, Ohio Acute Colitis: Acute colitis in dogs can be a one-time occurrence and often occurs abruptly, triggered by various factors such as dietary indiscretions, sudden changes in diet, infections, or stress. However, recurrent acute episodes can lead to chronic colitis, especially if underlying factors like persistent stress, dietary issues, or undiagnosed conditions are not addressed. Chronic Colitis: Chronic colitis often involves recurring symptoms due to underlying issues such as food allergies, stress, or autoimmune responses. Managing chronic colitis requires long-term dietary and lifestyle adjustments. Stress Colitis: Stress induced colitis in dogs occurs when emotional or environmental stress triggers inflammation of the colon, often caused by changes in routine, separation anxiety, travel or being in unfamiliar environments (e.g. the vet's office). Ulcerative Colitis: Ulcerative colitis in dogs is a specific form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that involves inflammation and ulcers in the colon and rectum of the dog. Treatment may entail medications to reduce inflammation, such as steroids or immunosuppressants, as it is thought to be an abnormal immune response (autoimmune disease) in the gastrointestinal tract. Colitis in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors such as: 
Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can affect your dog's microbiome, leading to inflammation and digestive upset. Food Allergies: Allergic colitis and diarrhea in dogs can arise when a pup consumes an allergen, prompting an immune response and inflammation. Common culprits such as beef, poultry, grains like wheat, or dairy may be the triggers. High fat foods can also be a trigger. Parasites: Intestinal parasites such as worms and giardia can cause chronic diarrhea and colitis disease in dogs. Toxic Ingestion: Ingesting toxic substances, plants, or certain medications can lead to gastrointestinal irritation. Stress: Stressful events such as changes in environment, routine, or the addition of new pets or family members can contribute to IBS and stress colitis in dogs.
2. Feed A Specialized Diet: Switching to a highly digestible, hypoallergenic diet can reduce digestive symptoms. A gradual transition to a new diet is helpful. Many pet owners have found a novel protein (e.g. rabbit or venison) raw frozen food to be an effective diet. Dogs with IBD and colitis often have sensitive digestive systems. It's best not to feed dogs fatty meats such as bacon, dairy products, fried foods, or table scraps. 3. Add Fiber: Adding fiber to your dog's diet can help regulate bowel movements and firm up stool. Pumpkin, pumpkin powder, sweet potatoes, or a fiber supplement for dogs can be beneficial. 4. Use Probiotics: Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria to the gut, promoting a healthy balance and improving digestion. These beneficial bacteria aid in the restoration of gut flora helping to alleviate digestive discomfort. Choosing a probiotic that includes prebiotics is essential as prebiotics provide the necessary nutrition to support the growth of friendly bacteria. Prebiotics foster a more resilient and balanced gastrointestinal environment for dogs with colitis and IBD. 5. Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate digestive disorders in dogs. Reducing stress through a stable environment, routine, and possibly natural calming supplements can alleviate IBS symptoms and prevent flare-ups of IBD and colitis. 6. Home Remedies: Natural remedies for IBS, IBD, and colitis in dogs can help ease symptoms. Dogs with inflammatory bowel disease may experience difficulty in absorbing essential nutrients from their food due to inflammation in the digestive tract. Digestive enzymes help breakdown nutrients, improving absorption and facilitating better digestion. Hemp extract is considered one of the best home remedies for stress colitis in dogs. It has anti-inflammatory properties which could lead to decrease in symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and discomfort. 
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Kit For DogsThis natural dog colitis treatment delivers amazing results! Our IBD Kit has been used successfully to help many pets with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), colitis, chronic diarrhea and digestive upset. Learn more about the IBD Kit 
Happy Paws Organic Hemp ExtractIBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease), IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and colitis are characterized by an abnormal accumulation of inflammatory cells in the intestine. This can result in gas, mucus, and bloody stool. Pets with IBD, IBS and colitis frequently experience diarrhea, vomiting, and gurgling tummies. These conditions are commonly caused by food intolerances. However, stress can work both ways when it comes to digestive problems. Stress can increase digestive problems but pain and discomfort from digestive problems can also make the pet feel stressed and anxious. The anti-inflammatory properties of Happy Paws Hemp Oil can help treat IBD by restoring normal gut motility and reducing the inflammation in the digestive tract. Learn more about Happy Paws Drops Many dogs experience digestive problems due to food allergies or food intolerances. Dogs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and chronic diarrhea can benefit from a low carbohydrate, grain-free, hypoallergenic diet. Pet owners are often looking for the best homemade diet for dogs with IBD. Finding the right diet for your dog can be quite a challenge. IBS and IBD in dogs can make pets very sensitive and picky. It is very important to avoid proteins that your dog may not tolerate. For example, poultry can be a problem for many dogs with IBD. Some prescription diets contain chemicals and grains which may not be well tolerated by every dog. Dry kibble can be especially difficult for pets to digest as well. Want to know the best diet for your dog? Include what you are feeding your dog on the order form at checkout. Our nutritionist will include a free diet suggestion for your dog based on the information you provide on the packing slip that comes with your product directions. Ask Ariel has had many success stories, and we have had extensive experience working with dogs that have these conditions. 
Pumpkin is helpful for dogs with IBS, IBD, and colitis. A small amount of pure canned pumpkin (not raw or the sugary, spicy pie filling) mixed into your dog's food can help with digestive problems, diarrhea, loose stool or constipation. If your dog has diarrhea, the soluble fiber in pumpkin will help absorb the excess water, helping to firm up the stool. The high fiber content in pumpkin helps to regulate the natural wave action of the intestinal tract. It is also a good source of natural vitamin A, vitamin C and antioxidants. Due to the additional fiber, a daily dose of pumpkin can help your dog feel full longer and may help promote weight loss.So, how much pumpkin to give your pet? It all depends upon the size and sensitivity of your pet. Always start slowly because too much pumpkin can have a laxative effect. For small dogs, start with 1/2 teaspoon per meal and big dogs can start with about a tablespoon per meal. Be sure to check with your veterinarian first if your pet has diabetes or is especially sensitive. Originally published Oct 27, 2009 Updated Aug 8, 2024 Written by: Susan Davis, Pet Health Nutritionist, CCN All pet treatment protocols and pet treatment supplements have been reviewed and approved by a veterinarian |