by Terry Peh June 23, 2023 6 min read

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 In Dogs

What is 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.  

What causes acid reflux in dogs

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.  

Acid Reflux In Dogs

Signs of acid reflux in dogs

Recognizing the signs of acid reflux in dogs is crucial for timely intervention. Common indications of acid reflux include:

  • Frequent regurgitation or vomiting, especially after meals.
  • Excessive swallowing or licking of the lips.
  • Persistent coughing or gagging.
  • Bad breath (halitosis) due to stomach acid backing up into the mouth.
  • Anxiety or restlessness due to discomfort or pain in the chest area.
  • Loss of appetite or unwillingness to eat.
  • Weight loss or poor weight gain.

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:

  • Physical Examination: The vet will conduct a thorough examination, evaluating your dog's overall health and checking for any abnormalities.
  • Bloodwork: Blood tests can help identify underlying conditions or rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.
  • Imaging Tests: X-rays or an ultrasound may be used to evaluate the oesophagus, stomach, and surrounding structures for any abnormalities.
  • Endoscopy: In some cases, an endoscope may be inserted into the oesophagus and stomach to visualise the area and collect tissue samples for further analysis.  

Acid Reflux In Dogs

How to treat acid reflux in dogs

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.  

Acid Reflux In Dogs

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

  • Burping and flatulence
  • Regurgitating undigested food
  • Bloating
  • Smelly breath
  • Acid reflux
  • Tummy rumbling or gurgling
  • Foul-smelling stools
  • Undigested food in stool

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.    

Acid Reflux In Dogs

Other ways to relieve acid reflux in dogs

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.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Katherine Khoo
KATHERINE KHOO
Katherine is a Pet Nutrition Specialist and GDP’s Pet Wellness Advisor. She is committed to helping pet owners make informed dietary and lifestyle choices in nurturing healthy pets. Katherine is also a practicing Nutritional Therapist (human nutrition) and has been helping hundreds of clients to heal naturally with nutrients.

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