When your dog vomits, he actively brings up food from his stomach. That means the food must pass through the gastroesophageal opening and go all the way up the esophagus. His sides move in and out, he makes the classic retching noises that can wake you up from a sound sleep. There is often bile mixed in the partially digested food.

With regurgitation, the food he ate has not passed into his stomach. For a variety of reasons, it is sitting in the esophagus, undigested. This type of throwing up has little warning before it comes up. You might hear a quiet burp as he lowers his head. There are no strenuous abdominal contractions.

Why Is My Dog Throwing Up Undigested Food?

Regurgitation is a classic sign of megaesophagus, a GI motility disorder. In this condition, the muscles and nerves of the esophagus are not normal, so the important motility required to move food along is absent. As food sits in the esophagus, the esophagus will stretch over time (hence, “mega” esophagus). Other causes include abnormalities of the vessels of the heart that block the progression of food and anything that blocks the opening of the esophagus into the stomach.

Some endocrine disorders like hypothyroidism are connected to regurgitation, as is myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disease associated with muscle weakness. But not all dogs who gulp food voraciously are ill. If your dog throws up infrequently, you can chart the occasions to see if there is a trigger, such as eating too fast.

Puppies Throwing Up

Primary megaesophagus is a congenital problem noted in puppies when they switch over from nursing and liquid food to solid foods. You will notice failure to thrive and gain weight as well as regurgitation. A serious problem can develop from aspiration pneumonia as the affected dogs seem hardly aware that food is coming back up. Aspiration pneumonia is a life-threatening concern.

Megaesophagus has been shown to be of genetic origin in Wire Hair Fox Terriers and Miniature Schnauzers. Other breeds prone to this condition include German Shepherd Dogs, Great Danes, and Labrador Retrievers.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis depends on history and radiographs. If a plain X-ray is not definitive, a contrast study with barium may be recommended.

Treatment

Dogs with megaesophagus can be managed but are not cured.

You may hear of sildenafil (Viagra) being used as an off-label treatment for megaesophagus in dogs. A 2017 study published in The Veterinary Record showed sildenafil “could represent a novel therapeutic tool for the treatment” of idiopathic/congenital megaesophagus, but a 2022 study published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research,  was less positive, concluding that: “There were no differences in esophageal clearance times or quality-of life-scores between sildenafil and placebo.”

Basically, treatment for megaesophagus in dogs requires your commitment. Any underlying conditions such as endocrine disorders need to be dealt with, but often the esophagus will not totally recover.

That means daily, lifelong care by you. You must be observant for the slightest sign of aspiration pneumonia as that is often the cause of death.

Some dogs will do fairly well with a certain texture of food, such as a slurry or multiple small “meatballs.” The diet must be high quality and high calorie, so you don’t need to feed large meals.

Most often these dogs need to be fed elevated and kept elevated for at least 15 minutes after eating. The simplest way to feed your dog is with a step stool, with him on his hind legs and his food bowl on a higher step.

Many families choose to go with a Bailey chair. These chairs keep your dog upright to eat and for the “holding time” postprandial (the immediate time after eating). You can purchase one or make your own via plans.

The post My Dog Is Throwing Up Undigested Food appeared first on Whole Dog Journal.

Symptoms of Food Poisoning in Dogs

Symptoms of food poisoning in dogs include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloating
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Dehydration

Depending on the pathogen consumed, some dogs also may show neurological signs:

• Tremors
• Loss of coordination

Preventing Food Poisoning in Dogs

Clearly, protecting dogs from food poisoning means keeping things they shouldn’t eat out of their mouths.

Garbage and compost should be kept out of reach as they pose multiple hazards. Cooked bones can shatter and perforate intestines, and corn cobs are a common cause of intestinal obstruction.

However, the bacteria and fungus present in rotting food poses the largest risk for food poisoning. As meat spoils, bacteria such as Salmonella, E. Coli, Listeria, and C. botulinum multiply. These bacteria produce toxins that are harmful to dogs and persist in the spoiled food even if the bacteria are killed.

Because of this, dogs should not eat expired foods or meat, even cooked. Like meat, rotting fruits and vegetables harbor harmful bacteria, but they also provide a perfect substrate for mold growth. Some molds produce mycotoxins, which can cause a variety of symptoms, from gastrointestinal (GI) upset to neurological issues, depending on the type and quantity ingested.

Dead Animals

Dead animals contain dangerous bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can be incredibly harmful to your pet as well. Be sure to keep your four-legged friend away from any dead and decaying items roadside, in the woods, or in the yard.

Feces, which many of our furry companions consider to be a delicacy, contains high levels of potentially harmful bacteria, such as Clostridium and Giardia, but it can also have parasites, such as hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. Regardless of the species of origin, consumption of fecal matter can be the cause of an upset stomach in dogs and should be prevented if possible.

Harmful Foods

Recalled dog food and treats can also cause food poisoning in our pets. Diets may be recalled if they are found to have bacterial contamination, mold, or toxins present. While rare, recalls have occurred for all formats of food and treats, so be sure to keep an eye out for announcements from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Raw and undercooked meat, eggs, and unpasteurized dairy products can also be a source of harmful bacteria. For dogs on a raw diet, food or ingredients should be high-quality and fresh from a reputable source. Proper storage and handling practices are essential to ensure the health and safety of our companions.

Contact Your Veterinarian

If you suspect your dog has food poisoning, practice safety measures when handling and cleaning up after them, as the pathogens making them ill can also cause illness in humans.

Wearing gloves, sanitizing bedding and surfaces, and quarantining your sick pup will minimize the spread to people and other animals in the home. If your dog is showing signs of food poisoning, especially severe symptoms like persistent vomiting, diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, or neurological signs, contact your veterinarian immediately and seek treatment.

The post Can Dogs Get Food Poisoning? appeared first on Whole Dog Journal.

Loss of Appetite in Dogs

Some health conditions can lead to a loss of appetite. A dog with kidney or liver problems may feel nauseous and not want to eat. Many of these dogs will approach their meals, drooling even, but will turn and walk away.

Check your dog’s mouth for any sign of injuries such as ulcers, a stick or bone caught across the roof of his mouth – it happens more often than you may think! – or an electrical burn from chomping on a cord. Many of these dogs will act fine, at least for a while, despite not eating.

Some dogs just seem to be naturally finicky, like, this week beef is the favorite protein but last week only salmon would do. This is where it pays to know your dog.

Loss of Appetite in Breeding Dogs

If your dog is an intact male and you have an attractive girl in heat (basically ANY girl in heat is attractive), your boy may be perfectly healthy but in lust. This includes any bitch in the neighborhood, not just in your household.

For most males this will only last for a couple of days, right around when the female is in “prime time.” Provided he does not have any health problems that could be exacerbated by fasting for a few days, simply figure you are saving on dog food.

Another healthy-but-not-eating scenario can occur in a female who is pregnant and suffering from something similar to morning sickness. This tends to happen around two to three weeks post breeding. Generally, these females will eat something at some point during the day. Occasionally, even false-pregnant bitches will do this, too.

Adolescents

On to the non-sex-related anorexic dogs, although somewhat related. Adolescent males often will not eat well. Despite your most tempting offerings, they will walk on by. Meanwhile, they are burning up calories and can get quite thin. This is usually a stage somewhere in between 6 to 12 months of age. Most of them do eat something, but it can be very frustrating to owners. This too shall pass.

Canine Secret Eating

Then we get to the tricky non-eaters. First, be sure that someone else is not feeding your dog. Another family member, a kind neighbor, your cat (usually inadvertently on the cat’s part). Some dogs are such gluttons that they will eat these extras plus their own meals, but others admit they are full. This includes dogs who hunt and scavenge on their own. If your dog is out catching and eating squirrels or rabbits, he truly may not be hungry. It could also be a change in the dog’s bowl you haven’t noticed.

If your dog won’t eat, you have a small window of time to evaluate the situation, The better you know your dog, the easier it is to decide. Taking the dog’s temperature, pulse, and respiration and watching for diarrhea, constipation, and changes in urine output is wise. Keep your veterinarian in the loop if your dog is at all very young, old, or battling a chronic disease. We don’t want you to take chances, but you usually don’t have to panic either.

The post My Dog Is Not Eating appeared first on Whole Dog Journal.

The active ingredient in MiraLAX is polyethylene glycol 3350. Many generic versions include the “LAX” in their names but read the ingredients label to ensure you’re getting the right medication.

While MiraLAX is generally safe, it’s wise to only give this medication under the guidance of your dog’s veterinarian. Giving too much could result in diarrhea or even dehydration. And you need to be certain the dog simply constipated and not battling something more serious.

When to Use MiraLAX for Dogs

MiraLAX is generally used to resolve and prevent constipation.

Symptoms of constipation in dogs include:

• Straining to defecate
• Small, hard stools
• Infrequent defecation
• Blood on stool
• Discomfort when pooping
• Distended abdomen
• Poor appetite
• Vomiting

While dogs can have a single bout of constipation that doesn’t recur, constipation also can be caused by a variety of medical problems, some of which are serious. Many signs of constipation are also symptoms of different health problems.

Constipation at the Vet’s Office

Your veterinarian will do an exam and possibly an X-ray to verify that your dog truly is constipated. He or she may recommend additional testing such as bloodwork, a fecal exam, or an abdominal ultrasound to determine why your dog is constipated. This is especially important if your dog suffers from frequent constipation.

In severe cases, your dog may need an enema or deobstipation under anesthesia to manually remove large amounts of hard, stuck stool from the colon.

If this is your dog’s first time being constipated and your veterinarian doesn’t find anything alarming, he or she may recommend MiraLAX for just a few days to get your dog’s bowels moving properly again.

Dogs who have chronic bouts of constipation or are on medications that can cause constipation may stay on MiraLAX long-term.

Dog Laxative Dosing

Your veterinarian will recommend a specific dose of MiraLAX for your dog based on her size, stool quality, and overall health.

In general, small dogs start at 1/8 or ¼ teaspoon of powder twice a day, while large dogs might get ½ to ¾ teaspoon twice a day. Depending on how your dog responds, your veterinarian may have you increase or decrease the dose.

You will work toward the dose that makes your dog’s poop soft but still formed. Liquid stool means the dose is too high, while hard stool means the dose is too low.

MiraLAX Caution With Dogs

This is worth repeating: Do not give MiraLAX to your dog without consulting your veterinarian. Giving a laxative when it is not needed could complicate some health situations, such as an intestinal blockage from eating a toy or giving too much could cause dehydration.

The post Can You Use MiraLAX for Dogs? appeared first on Whole Dog Journal.

Causes of Flatulence

Flatulence—farts or passing gas—is a perfectly normal part of being a dog (or a human!). Your dog’s digestive tract is full of bacteria which aid in digestion by helping to break foods down. As food is broken down, gas is sometimes produced. This gas then escapes the body as a fart.

Your dog can also get gas in his digestive tract by swallowing air. Brachycephalic dogs with short muzzles, such as Pugs, Boston Terriers, and Bulldogs, tend to swallow more air than other dogs because of the structure of their head and neck. This leads to more frequent flatulence. Dogs of any shape can swallow air when panting, wolfing down food, or chugging water.

The food that your dog eats can also increase flatulence. High fat, high fiber, and spicy foods all come with an increased chance of farts. Also, most dogs are lactose intolerant which makes dairy products a risky business. And then of course there are the things that your dog eats even though he shouldn’t such as trash, stolen table scraps, spoiled food, or dead things found in the yard.

Here is a list of possible causes for dog farts:

• Swallowing air when eating or drinking too fast
• Swallowing air while panting after exercise
• Eating cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, peas, or beans
• High fat or high fiber diet
• Dairy such as cheese or ice cream
• Spicy foods
• Dietary indiscretion
• Changing to a new food too quickly
• Stress
• Overweight

If you find yourself asking, “Why is my dog farting so much all of a sudden?” these are some easy causes to identify and then avoid in the future. While the toxic gas from a garbage can raid isn’t pleasant, it will pass.

But there are more concerning causes of flatulence in dogs. Health problems in the digestive tract can cause increased or excessively stinky farts. There are even some problems with the heart or lungs can contribute.

These are some health problems that may contribute to dog farts:

• Food intolerance
• Food allergy
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Pancreatitis
• Intestinal parasites
• Inflammation of the colon
• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)
• Cancer in the GI tract
• Respiratory disease or cancer in the lungs resulting in increased breathing rate
• Heart disease causing an increased breathing rate

When to Call a Vet

If your dog just farts once in a while or there is a very clear reason why he is extra stinky today (i.e., he stole a bowl of ice cream from your visiting nephew), you don’t have anything to worry about.

A vet visit is in order if your dog has frequent flatulence, or if it suddenly becomes worse in frequency or strength. In many cases bad gas is not an emergency, but it is still helpful to figure out why your dog is so stinky and make a plan to address it.

You should definitely call your vet if your dog has other symptoms of illness including:

• Diarrhea
• Bloody stool
• Vomiting
• Painful abdomen
• Poor appetite
• Weight loss
• Lethargy or depression
• Loud gurgling in the abdomen
• Constant panting even in a cool environment
• Difficulty breathing

If your dog is struggling to breathe or has both vomiting and diarrhea, this is an emergency.

Your veterinarian will use a variety of tests to determine why your dog has bad gas. First, she will ask lots of questions about your dog’s usual diet, any treats he regularly gets, changes to his diet, and if he has gotten into anything recently. Then she will do a physical exam to assess your dog’s overall health including palpating his abdomen. From there she will recommend testing based on what she thinks is the most likely cause of the stinky farts.

Testing may include bloodwork, a fecal exam, rectal exam, diet trial, x-rays, ultrasound, and/or endoscopy of the GI tract with biopsies. If a medical problem is found, appropriate treatment should help to resolve the farts along with any other symptoms.

Why Do My Dog’s Farts Smell So Bad?

Many different factors can impact the intensity of your dog’s farts.

• High fiber foods—these take longer to digest resulting in more gas buildup in the intestines
• Foods containing sulfur that is released during digestion
• Spoiled food
• Bacterial infections
• Inflammation within the GI tract
• Stress, medications, or an illness that causes food to travel too quickly or too slowly through the digestive tract

Adjusting your dog’s diet if needed or treating medical issues can help to decrease the pungency of your dog’s farts.

How to Decrease Dog Farts

If your dog has an underlying medical issue that is contributing to his farts, treating the illness will help to resolve the farts. For example, EPI is treated by adding digestive enzymes to your dog’s meals to help him digest food normally.

Food allergies and intolerances can be difficult to diagnose. True food allergies usually come with skin issues such as chronic ear infections, itchy red skin year-round, and chronic paw infections. Food intolerances are less severe but can still be unpleasant if they cause bloating or abnormal stools. If your veterinarian suspects one of these issues, she will likely recommend trying a novel diet with ingredients that your dog has not had before. If his symptoms go away after 8-12 weeks on the new diet, he probably has a food allergy or intolerance. It may take several rounds of diet trials to identify the ingredient causing the trouble, but protein sources such as beef, chicken, or eggs are the most common offenders for food allergies.

Here are some general tips to decrease stinky farts in your otherwise healthy dog:

• Avoid dairy products
• Feed “farty” vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or beans in moderation
• Feed small, frequent meals rather than one or two big meals
• Use a slow feeder bowl to prevent your dog from gulping down his food
• Keep your dog active—exercise and lean body condition improve digestion
• Consider switching to a food that is easily digestible and low in fat and fiber
• Add dog-specific probiotics to your dog’s meals
• Choose low-fiber dog treats
• Skip the table scraps
• Secure garbage bins so your dog can’t get into them
• Consider supplements that include Yucca shidigera or zinc acetate
• Ask your veterinarian about the medication simethicone or starting your dog on an antacid

We hope these tips help your family to breathe easy!

The post Why is My Dog Farting So Much? appeared first on Whole Dog Journal.

Signs of Worsening Pancreatitis

Signs of pancreatitis include vomiting, loss of appetite, painful abdomen (which can look like a hunched up appearance, or the dog may posture like the yoga pose downward dog), lethargy, and fever.

Pancreatitis can be acute, meaning it comes on all of a sudden with no warning, or chronic. Acute pancreatitis can be severe and life-threatening. Many of these dogs must be hospitalized for intravenous fluids and supportive care. Chronic pancreatitis tends to cause waxing, waning symptoms repeatedly over time. Chronic pancreatitis requires careful, long-term management.

Signs of worsening pancreatitis in dogs include:

• Protracted vomiting not controlled with medication
• Unrelenting abdominal pain despite pain meds
• Weakness
• Shock
• Abnormal bleeding (due to disseminated intravascular coagulation)
• Collapse
• Trouble breathing
• Death

If you believe your dog is suffering from pancreatitis, get to the veterinarian immediately. This is an emergency. Call the clinic on the way to give them a heads up that you’re arriving. (This is yet another reason to know the name, phone number, and location of the nearest 24/7 emergency veterinary clinic.)

Pancreatitis also occurs in a chronic-active form, with milder symptoms that come and go. These dogs will intermittently need the help of antiemetic and pain-relieving medications and should always be fed low-fat food forever.

Causes of Canine Pancreatitis

The most common cause of pancreatitis in dogs seen in general veterinary practices is dietary indiscretion with ingestion of high-fat food, aka getting into the garbage or stealing butter or other high-fat foods off counters.

Other causes of pancreatitis include hormone imbalances, certain medications, trauma to the abdomen (like if dog is hit by car), and obesity. Some breeds are more predisposed to pancreatitis than others including Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkies, Poodles, and Cocker Spaniels.

Risk Factors for Pancreatitis

Schnauzers sometimes suffer from a condition called hyperlipidemia, which predisposes them to pancreatitis. Otherwise, predisposing factors for pancreatitis include:

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Cushing’s syndrome (overactive adrenal glands)
• Some medications

Diagnosis of Pancreatitis

If your dog is showing signs of pancreatitis, your veterinarian will likely take an abdominal X-ray to rule out other potential causes. Baseline blood work is done for the same reason. Your veterinarian may also run a blood test called specific canine pancreatic lipase (SPEC cPL), which is much more sensitive and specific for pancreatitis than the older tests veterinarians used to have to rely on (lipase, amylase). Many veterinary hospitals can run this test in-house. With results immediately available, your dog can get the treatment he needs right away.

For chronic cases, your veterinarian may recommend an abdominal ultrasound, as this can provide useful information regarding severity, which helps in determining prognosis.

Treatment for Pancreatitis in Dogs

Treatment for acute pancreatitis in dogs usually involves hospitalization. Intravenous fluids are administered to combat dehydration, restore circulation to the pancreas and aid healing, and to prevent shock.

Pain management is of the utmost importance. Pain medications are administered by injection in the hospital because vomiting dogs cannot hold down medications.

Anti-nausea and anti-vomiting medications (antiemetics) are also administered by injection. Once vomiting has stopped, small amounts of low-fat food will by started by mouth.

Panoquell-CA1 (fuzapladib) is an intravenous medication conditionally approved by the FDA for treatment of acute pancreatitis in the veterinary hospital. This drug prevents damaging white blood cells from entering the pancreas where they exacerbate the damage to the inflamed organ. This is exciting news, as anything that helps prevent worsening pancreatitis in dogs is paramount to a successful outcome with this serious illness.

Dogs who recover from severe, acute pancreatitis may suffer from diabetes in the aftermath, depending on how severe the damage to the pancreas was (remember, the pancreas produces insulin).

Once the pancreatitis is under control, your veterinarian may discuss low-fat dietary changes with you to for long-term maintenance.

The post Pancreatitis in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment appeared first on Whole Dog Journal.

Consider offering small meals frequently. Some dogs will appreciate you offering spoonsful of food or holding up their bowl for them. Variety can be appealing.

Most sick dogs do best with a bland diet. Top choices include:

1. Cooked chicken breast with cooked rice. This is perhaps the most tempting food for dogs who don’t feel well. No butter, spices, or anything when making the chicken and rice.
2. Oatmeal works for some dogs. Cook his rolled oats with water and nothing else. Oatmeal has plenty of fiber, which can help with diarrhea, and lots of B vitamins.
3. Plain mashed potatoes. These are another favorite of sick dogs who aren’t eating well, but skip the butter, milk, and seasonings.
4. Smelly canned mackerel. This may do the trick, especially if the dog is having a respiratory issue and can’t smell his food.
5. Canned cat food. While you don’t want your dog on a steady diet of cat food, some small offerings are smelly and tasty. For short-term use, these are fine, but check with your veterinarian to be sure your dog can handle the high protein and fat content of many cat foods, especially if he has a history of pancreatitis.

Dog Sniffs and Walks Away

Very often a sick dog will walk over, sniff the food, and walk away. This could be from nausea, or he may not be able to smell well. Ask your veterinarian for medications if you think he is nauseous. Drooling and your dog’s facial expression are clues to nausea.

If he has a respiratory infection, keep your dog’s nose clean. Use warm compresses to loosen any crusts. Make his food savory by warming it carefully and/or adding a good smelling topping.

In the case of a respiratory infection, the bland foods listed above may need some smelly toppings. Low-sodium broth works well and will help with hydration. The juice from a can of tuna packed in water also adds plenty of aroma.

Talk with Your Veterinarian

If none of your efforts work, and the dog hasn’t eaten for 12 to 24 hours or missed two meals, call your veterinarian, who will want to determine what the cause and may prescribe an appetite stimulant if needed.

The post 5 Things to Feed a Sick Dog With No Appetite appeared first on Whole Dog Journal.

Recommended doses of how much peroxide it takes to make a dog throw up vary, but the standard is 1 teaspoon (5 ml) for 10 lbs of body weight. It helps to walk your dog around for a few minutes to sort of “stir” the peroxide around his stomach. Most dogs will vomit within about 10 minutes.

Making your dog vomit should not be taken lightly. Hydrogen peroxide is an irritant to your dog’s stomach lining. Do not give more than 2 doses with a maximum of 3 tablespoons for a large dog.

Should You Make Your Dog Vomit?

Before making your dog vomit, consider some things. First, do you truly need to make your dog vomit? And, second, is it safe to make your dog vomit?

Making your dog vomit after eating a sock might work, depending upon the size of the dog and the size of the sock itself. A better choice is to call your veterinarian first—or an emergency clinic—and get their advice.

If your dog eats chocolate, making your dog throw up may not be necessary. What to do if your dog eats chocolate depends on the type of chocolate the dog ate, how much he ate, and how big your dog is. Sometimes, you may just need to keep an eye on him and watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, panting, restlessness, excessive urination, and racing heart rate. In severe cases,  you may see muscle tremors, seizures, and heart failure.

There are many good “chocolate calculators” that can give you an idea if the candy your dog ate is likely to be toxic. This will vary with the size of your dog and the type of chocolate. Overall, milk chocolate is safer than dark chocolate because milk chocolate has a lower amount of theobromine (the main alkaloid in the cacao bean), which is toxic dogs. Chocolate also contains caffeine, which is toxic to dogs as well. They cause similar symptoms, but the effects of theobromine last longer.

When to Not Induce Vomiting in Your Dog

Some substances do more damage if you make your dog throw them up, such as caustic items like drain cleaner or sharp items like broken glass. Some dogs have problems that make them susceptible to serious problems like aspiration pneumonia if they vomit. That includes brachycephalic breeds and dogs with laryngeal paralysis or megaesophagus.

Keep a fresh, unopened bottle of hydrogen peroxide 3% in your pet first-aid kit, but before using it put in a quick call to your veterinarian or one of the pet poison centers. The Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 both charge a fee (which is covered by some pet insurances), but they are worth the cost for expert advice. Both centers are open 24/7, just for emergencies like a 2 a.m. sock snack.

The post How to Make a Dog Throw Up appeared first on Whole Dog Journal.

In a healthy gut, “friendly” or beneficial microbes secrete chemicals that destroy harmful bacteria and, if they are present in sufficient numbers, colonies of beneficial bacteria starve harmful microbes by depriving them of nutrients and space. In addition, the microbes in a healthy microbiome can bind to toxins, such as allergens and substances that cause cancer, removing them from the body through normal elimination.

Your Dog’s Microbiome

At 6 months of age, the gut microbiomes of healthy puppies contain over 500 different types of microbes. Though the numbers decline as dogs age, older dogs still have over 400 different types of bacteria and other microbes in their digestive tracts, approximately 80% of which are beneficial and 20% potentially harmful.

An estimated 70-80% of your dog’s immune system is in the microbiome. Dysbiosis (an imbalance of healthy or beneficial microbes in a dog’s body) leads to a variety of common symptoms that can be treated by improving a dog’s gut health, including:

• Allergies, itching, and food sensitivities
• Indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, and flatulence
• Skin and coat problems
• Dental problems and gum disease
• Bad breath and unpleasant body odors
• Arthritis or joint pain
• Liver disease
• Pancreatitis
• Respiratory problems
• Inflammation
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Susceptibility to infections

What Causes Gut Imbalances?

The simplest answer to what most affects dog gut health is modern life. Most American dogs eat processed foods and even the highest-quality kibbles are high in carbohydrates and low in enzymes and nutrients that are damaged by the heat and pressure of manufacturing. Add environmental factors like harmful chemicals, EMF (electromagnetic frequency) exposure, air or water pollution, and other 21^st century stressors, and it’s no wonder our dogs are affected.

A Gut-healthy Diet

Holistic veterinarians have long argued that the most important factor in a dog’s health is food. A species-appropriate diet (also known as a biologically appropriate diet) is modeled after what wild canines consume, which is mostly the raw meat, bones, glands, blood, skin, and organs of prey animals. The natural canine diet is high in protein, moderate in fat, and low in carbohydrates.

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According to Karen Becker, DVM, whose popular books include Dr. Becker’s Real Food for Healthy Dogs and Cats (Natural Pet Productions, 2018) and The Forever Dog: Surprising New Science to Help Your Canine Companion Live Younger, Healthier, and Longer (Harper, 2021), dogs fed fresh in place of dry dog food show positive microbiome changes and improved overall gut function. “A nutritionally optimal, species-specific, fresh raw or gently cooked diet is always a better choice for pets than extruded kibble diets,” she says.

Frozen fresh, lightly cooked, and freeze-dried raw diets represent the fastest growing segment of today’s pet food industry. Look for frozen raw SmallBatch, A Pup Above, Stella & Chewy’s, Primal, Northwest Naturals, and similar dog foods in independent pet supply stores. You can feed your dog from scratch with the help of books like Dr. Becker’s, but brands like these are an easy way to provide the complete nutrition and variety that build a better microbiome.

Gut Health Supplements

In addition to feeding an appropriate diet, you can enrich your dog’s microbiome by adding prebiotics and probiotics to her food.

• Prebiotics are indigestible carbohydrates, such as fiber, that feed and support the beneficial bacteria that live in your dog’s digestive tract.
• Probiotics are live microbes that regulate immune response, produce short-chain fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties, prevent the overgrowth of harmful microbes, and help prevent leaky gut syndrome by strengthening the gut barrier.

Both are familiar supplements for pets as well as people, and several brands combine active bacteria with the fibrous foods that feed them. A leading theory about the effectiveness of probiotics is that the more different strains of beneficial bacteria they contain, or the more species-specific they are (derived from cat, dog, or wolf sources), the more likely they are to improve your animal’s microbiome. Most probiotic activity occurs in the intestines, which is why recommended brands use strains of beneficial bacteria that survive stomach acid.

Research shows that the popular probiotic strain Bifidobacterium animalis helped reduce stress in dogs moved to kennels from their homes and that it was as effective as antibiotics in treating severe diarrhea. The beneficial bacterium Bifidobacterium longum reduced overall anxiety in 90% of the dogs tested with it, and B. longum and other probiotics have been shown to reduce digestive problems. Probiotics are often prescribed for dogs recovering from antibiotic therapy, which kills both harmful and beneficial bacteria.

The strength or concentration of probiotic products is measured in CFUs, or Colony Forming Units. Most probiotics sold for human or pet use contain at least 1 million CFUs per serving, but many measure their CFUs in the billions. Check labels to compare brands.

For example, Purina’s  FortiFlora Canine Probiotics Supplement  is sold for the dietary management of diarrhea and to help prevent flatulence. Available as a powder to sprinkle over food or as chewable tablets, the recommended dose of FortiFlora contains 100 million CFUs of a single beneficial bacterium, Entercoccus faecium. In contrast, Bark & Wiskers Complete Probiotics for Pets contains 15 strains of probiotics totaling 38 billion CFUs, Nulo Gut Health Functional Powder For Dogs and Nulo Probiotic Soft Chew Supplements for Dogs  contain 5 strains of probiotics totaling 1 billion CFUs, Adored Beast Roots contains 3 species-appropriate ancestral probiotic strains from wolves totaling 15 billion CFUs, Adored Beast Love Bugs contains 14 strains of probiotics for dogs and cats totaling 30 billion CFUs, and Primal Frozen Raw Fermented Goat Milk contains 3 strains of probiotics totaling 5 billion CFUs per fluid ounce (2 tablespoons).

In addition, you can help improve your dog’s microbiome by following these simple tips:

• Keep your dog hydrated by encouraging him to drink, making clean water available indoors and out, and by adding fluids like goat milk, bone broth, or warm water to food.
• Add fermented foods such as plain (unflavored, unsweetened) yogurt, kefir, cottage cheese, or raw fermented milk from cows or goats. For how-to instructions see “Dogs and Dairy Products.”
• Examine dog food ingredients to be sure they are the best you can afford, focusing on good protein sources.
• Rotate from one protein to another, a strategy that provides more complete nutrition than feeding the same food at every meal.
• Limit or avoid carbohydrates, especially corn, wheat, and soy, which are commonly associated with allergies and digestive problems and which canines in the wild never consume.
• Add fresh, whole raw, or gently cooked ingredients from your own dinner preparation whenever it’s convenient.
• Add small amounts of dandelion greens, brussels sprouts, okra, asparagus, avocado (without the pit or skin), or nori/seaweed as meal toppers or mix them into your dog’s food.

Replacing as little as 20% of your dog’s dry or canned dog food with fresh ingredients can significantly improve gut health.

For more see  “What Do Probiotics Do for Dogs” in the August 2022 Whole Dog Journal and  ”A Better Biome.”   

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A dog who ate an onion may vomit or have diarrhea, refuse to eat, and may have oral or gastric pain. You may notice difficulty breathing, lethargy, and/or feel a rapid heartbeat. Be aware, however: “Signs may not occur until several days after ingestion,” according to the American College of Apothecaries.

The toxic compound in onions is N-propyl disulphide. This substance destroys red blood cells and can lead to anemia. With anemia, your dog may become weak and lethargic. You might notice a rapid heartbeat if you feel your dog’s chest or see that his gums are pale.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats an Onion

If you realize your dog ate an onion, try to make him vomit. A tiny piece of onion won’t be a big problem in most dogs, except small dogs, but any large chunks or whole onions can cause toxicity. Contact your veterinarian immediately, even if you made your dog vomit.

The vet will induce vomiting and give activated charcoal to try and bind the toxic compound. In severe cases, your dog may need a transfusion. Blood samples will be drawn to check for anemia and Heinz bodies (damaged red blood cell proteins). Your dog may need recheck blood samples to ensure he is recovering from the onion ingestion.

Many onion exposures are small but if repeated could cause symptoms just like one big exposure. If you are feeding baby food to a tiny puppy or to tempt a finicky or sick dog, always check the ingredients. Many of these products include onion powder. If you cook a soup using onions, onion powder, or garlic in any form, do not share any with your dog.

Why Your Dog Keeps Eating Onions

Unfortunately, a whole onion may look like a toy or a ball to a dog, and they may chew on one while basically playing with it. Do not allow your dog to ingest or play with any allium vegetables, including onions, leeks, shallots, chives, or garlic. This includes the vegetables and powders. Ornamental chives also contain the toxic compound, so fence off areas in your garden with potentially dangerous flowers as well as any toxic vegetables. Many foods are toxic to dogs, and it’s wise to familiarize with them.

Dogs can eat many vegetables, including carrots – baby carrots are a little-dog favorite – and green beans (many dogs like them frozen!). Vegetables are a great healthy treat for dogs.

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Parasites. Take a fresh fecal sample to your veterinarian. While internal parasites are more likely to cause weight loss in puppies, even adult dogs can be dragged down by a heavy parasite load. If your dog is losing weight, it makes the most sense to get that fecal sample, so you know what you’re dealing with and can deworm for that parasite. Whipworms can be the worst and might require multiple samples to be identified. Your veterinarian may decide to deworm your dog just in case, which is not a bad plan.

Dental disease. If your dog’s teeth, gums, or mouth hurt, he may not be eating normally. That, obviously, will contribute to weight loss. A dog who approaches his food but won’t eat may have a painful tooth or could be nauseous.

Environmental changes. Next, look at behavior and environment. Ask yourself these questions:

• Is your dog eating his meals?
• Is your other dog bullying him out of all or part of his food?
• If he is not eating, has anything changed about where or when he is fed?
• Have you changed foods or even flavors within the same brand?
• Have you changed bowls or noticed a chip in his old one? For whatever reason, your dog may be unhappy with his bowl.
• Is your dog in heat or is another dog in the house in heat? Hormonal turmoil can upset an entire household. Both males and females may decide to skip meals.

Serious Causes of Dog Weight Loss

If your dog appears to be eating his normal meals, he may later vomit the food back up once he is outside in your yard – and possibly (yuck, I know) another dog is cleaning it up or he’s vomiting in a spot you don’t normally notice. Watch him when he goes out to see and look at the vomit. Check his stool, too. He could be pooping blood. A soft stool or diarrhea could indicate an illness. Getting to the cause for weight loss in your dog due to vomiting and/or diarrhea requires a gastrointestinal workup by your veterinarian. This will likely include a blood chemistry panel, ultrasound, and/or radiographs.

Dogs with diabetes often eat voraciously but lose weight. The same is true of some dogs with cancer, although other dogs will stop eating well and become very finicky.

Dogs with serious heart problems may stop eating due to cardiac cachexia, which is unintentional weight loss due to heart failure.

Many metabolic disorders such as adrenal problems, hyperthyroidism, pancreatitis, and intestinal, liver, and kidney conditions can all cause unwanted weight loss.

Act Quickly to Help Your Dog

If you can’t quickly resolve the problem through the environmental reasons above for your dog’s weight loss, you need veterinary help. Unintentional weight loss in a dog is a call for heads up. Waiting will only make things worse.

With any luck, a fecal sample check or quick behavior and environment check will show a reason for the weight loss. Otherwise, the best course of action is a full veterinary exam and diagnostic workup.

The post Why Is My Dog Losing Weight? appeared first on Whole Dog Journal.

Dramamine is not an FDA-approved medication for dogs, which means its use is considered off label, and there is no official Dramamine dosage for dogs. A better choice might be an FDA-approved treatment like Cerenia.

The dosage for Dramamine for a dog is based on the dog’s weight. Most veterinarians recommend a Dramamine dosage for dogs at 2 mgs to 4 mgs per pound of the dog’s body weight. Since the pills tend to come in 50 mg size, you will need a pill cutter to get down to a reasonable dose for small dog. Overdosing may cause poisoning.

Dramamine for Motion Sickness

Dramamine takes 30 to 45 minutes to take effect. If it helps your dog with motion sickness, you need to give it before you get in the car. Common Dramamine side effects noticed in dogs are sleepiness, a dry mouth with sticky saliva, and problems urinating.

Dramamine had drug interactions, particularly neurologic medications such as antidepressants. It can also interfere with allergy testing. Before using any medication, check with your veterinarian. Be sure to mention EVERYTHING your dog gets, which means food, treats, and all supplements and medications.

Dogs with some chronic health problems should not receive Dramamine. The list includes glaucoma, seizures, and cardiac conditions such as hypertension. It is of questionable use in a dog with any urinary problems as well.

Help for Dogs with Motion Sickness

What else can you do for a dog with motion sickness? Do your best on car trips to minimize turns and stops. The ideal road trip for these dogs is on a smooth highway – no potholes. Keep the car cool. Use the AC and put a fan on your dog’s crate if needed. Roll the windows down if your dog is safely crated and the weather is cool. Some dogs do best if they can see out, while others ride better if covered. Remember that a dog who has motion sickness will probably be uncomfortable on a boating expedition as well.

Some herbal mixtures, such as ginger, may help dogs who get carsick. Again, check with your veterinarian before you mix and match too many medications and supplements and be careful with dosages.

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