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Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition that affects not only humans but our furry companions as well. Dogs can suffer from acid reflux, causing discomfort and potential damage to the oesophagus and its lining. In this article, we will explore the potential causes, symptoms, and management options for acid reflux in dogs.
Acid reflux happens when gastric fluid comes up from the stomach and flows into the oesophagus. The oesophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach of the dog. Normally, a valve called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) prevents this reverse flow of stomach acid. In dogs with GERD, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which acts as a barrier between the stomach and oesophagus, may weaken or malfunction, leading to acid reflux. The gastric fluid is caustic in nature and can cause inflammation, irritation and damage to the oesophagus and its lining.
The causes of GERD in dogs can be multifaceted, often involving a combination of anatomical, dietary, and underlying medical factors.
Diet
Dietary factors play a significant role in the development of acid reflux in dogs. Feeding dogs a high-fat diet can increase the risk of acid reflux. This is because high-fat foods can result in slower than normal gastric emptying, therefore allowing for acid to travel back up into the oesophagus. Food intolerances, sensitivity and allergies can create immune and digestive dysfunction, leading to GERD as well.
Obesity
Overweight dogs are more prone to acid reflux due to the excess pressure on the stomach.
Overproduction or underproduction of stomach acid
It is commonly believed that acid reflux is due to overproduction of stomach acid. However, underproduction of stomach acid can lead to acid reflux too. Too low stomach acid slows down digestion, allowing chime to sit in the stomach which may lead to regurgitation and acid reflux.
Hiatal hernia
Though not common, a hiatal hernia can cause acid reflux in dogs. A hiatal hernia occurs when the diaphragm, a large muscle that separates the chest and abdomen, weakens or stretches in such a way that part of the stomach slides and moves into the chest. This condition can lead to acid reflux in dogs. Stress is often a low-grade release of cortisol that can slow down digestion, creating a bolus of food in the stomach, that can sit around, coming up as regurgitation, rather than emptying into the small intestines in a timely fashion.
Medical conditions
Certain medical conditions like gastritis, pancreatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be at the root cause of acid reflux in dogs. Poor gut microbiota, yeast overgrowth, and in some cases, overuse of antibiotic use and lead to poor gut health and GERD.
Recognizing the signs of acid reflux in dogs is crucial for timely intervention. Common indications of acid reflux include:
If you suspect your dog has acid reflux, it is important to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. The vet may perform various diagnostic tests, including:
Treatment for acid reflux in dogs aims to reduce symptoms, heal any damage to the oesophagus, and prevent further complications. Depending on the cause and severity of the condition, your vet may suggest dietary changes, prescribe antacids and prokinetic medications as part of the treatment. In very severe cases or when other treatments fail, surgery may be necessary to correct structural abnormalities or reinforce the LES.
To alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage to the dog’s esophageal lining, here are some dietary and lifestyle modifications that you can do at home.
Avoid high-fat foods
High-fat foods can result in slower than normal gastric emptying, increasing the risk of acid reflux.
Fresh food is best
A fresh and balanced diet rich in easily digestible proteins, with some good fats and insoluble fibre can help support gut microbiota and gut motility. Gently cooked fresh diets are often best in this instance.
Feed smaller, frequent meals
Additionally, feeding smaller, more frequent meals and elevating the food bowl can also reduce acid reflux.
Manage weight
If obesity is a contributing factor, your vet may recommend a weight loss plan to reduce the pressure on the stomach. Monitor your pup’s eating habits. Dogs that eat excessive amounts of treats, table scraps, and food at mealtimes will gain weight quickly, especially if they are not very active. Of course, additional exercise will help your dog lose weight.
Manage food sensitivities
If feeding a fresh diet has not worked, try a food allergy or sensitivity test. Your pup could be sensitive to certain proteins in the dog food or treats. You may consider feeding a gently cooked, novelty protein dog food like this The Grateful Pet Cooked Dog Food (Wild Kangaroo). Similarly, choose single-protein dog treats, preferably novelty protein treats, like this TAKI Pets Freeze Dried Bull Frog Leg Cat & Dog Treats, and avoid anything that your pup may be sensitive to.
Supplement with probiotics
Some GERD conditions may benefit from a probiotic supplement. Many studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of probiotics on alleviating GERD conditions. It is best to choose a complete probiotic supplement that includes prebiotics and postbiotics too, like this Furment Complete Postbiotics Powder Supplement for Dogs & Cats. Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria found in the supplement, prebiotics is fibre that feeds these friendly bacteria while postbiotics are bioactive metabolites produced by the probiotics. Beneficial properties of postbiotics include anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidative, and antimicrobial.
Supplement with digestive enzymes
Acid reflux can happen in cases of digestive enzyme deficiency. These are signs that your dog may need some digestive enzyme support
Digestive enzymes are best given with food. If you noticed these signs in your dog, do giving a digestive enzymes supplement like this Naturvet Digestive Enzymes Pre & Probiotics Soft Chew Dog Supplement to assist in the digestion and absorption of essential nutrients.
There are soothing herbs that are natural antacids. They include ginger, slippery elm, licorice, and marshmallow root. These can calm irritation of the lining of the oesophagus and stomach. Here’s a probiotic supplement with added organic herbs and foods like marshmallow root, slippery elm and aloe vera leaf extract to help control inflammation in the digestive tract - Four Leaf Rover (GUT GUARD) For Leaky & Imbalanced Guts Dog Supplements. Ginger tea or chamomile tea can also be soothing. Simmer slices of ginger in water for 30 minutes, cool and give to your dog or spoon over his food.
Acid reflux is a condition that can affect dogs, causing discomfort and potentially leading to further complications. Recognizing the signs and seeking veterinary care is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. With dietary modifications, medications, and lifestyle adjustments, most dogs can manage their acid reflux and live a comfortable life. If you suspect your dog may be suffering from acid reflux, consult your veterinarian for guidance and support.
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