Digestion & Gastrointestinal

The digestive and gastrointestinal systems break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste. When disrupted by inflammation, infection, or food sensitivities, they can cause discomfort, nutrient deficiencies, and broader health issues. Healthy digestion is essential to a dog’s overall well-being.

Last Reviewed Date: 01/02/2026

Overview

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Digestion & Gastrointestinal Health in Dogs

The digestive and gastrointestinal systems allow a dog’s body to extract what it needs from food—and eliminate what it doesn’t. These systems work together to break down nutrients, absorb them into the bloodstream, and form waste for elimination. When functioning normally, digestion powers everything from growth to immune protection. When disrupted, it can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, poor appetite, and even issues outside the gut, such as skin irritation or behavioral changes.

What Is the Gastrointestinal System?

The gastrointestinal (GI) system includes the hollow organs that food passes through after a dog eats, beginning at the mouth and ending at the anus. It also includes key support organs such as the liver and pancreas that produce digestive chemicals.

Here is a simplified path of food through a dog’s body:

Mouth: Chewing breaks food into smaller pieces. Saliva adds moisture but contains few enzymes in dogs.
Esophagus: A muscular tube that moves food from the mouth to the stomach.
Stomach: Produces strong acids and enzymes that begin digesting protein and killing harmful microbes.
Small intestine: The site where most digestion and nutrient absorption occur. Enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver help break food into molecules that can be absorbed into the bloodstream.
Large intestine (colon): Absorbs water and electrolytes and helps form stool. This area also contains most of the gut’s bacterial population.

Support organs include:

Liver: Produces bile for fat digestion and processes nutrients after absorption.
Pancreas: Produces digestive enzymes that help break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates and neutralizes stomach acid.

Dog Digestive Anatomy

The dog’s digestive system is a remarkable sequence of specialized organs that transform food into usable nutrients, support immune defense, and eliminate waste. While dogs share many digestive features with humans, their system is shorter and designed to process a diet rich in animal protein and fat.

Body Part	How It Helps Digestion
Mouth and Tongue	Digestion begins in the mouth, where the tongue, teeth, and saliva work together to prepare food for the rest of the system. Unlike humans, dogs do very little chewing. Their teeth are shaped primarily for gripping and tearing, reflecting their carnivorous ancestry. The tongue helps move food around the mouth and pushes it toward the throat for swallowing. The dog’s saliva serves a different purpose than ours. It contains fewer enzymes for breaking down carbohydrates but plays a critical role in lubrication, temperature regulation, and cleaning. Saliva moistens food, allowing it to slide easily down the esophagus, and it helps neutralize bacteria, protecting the mouth and upper digestive tract from infection.
Esophagus	The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. It relies on rhythmic, wave-like contractions known as peristalsis to move food along, regardless of a dog’s body position. The tissue lining the esophagus is designed to resist friction and occasional reflux from the stomach. Because dogs have a horizontal esophagus for most of its length, gravity plays less of a role in swallowing compared to humans. Any obstruction or disorder here can disrupt the movement of food and lead to regurgitation or aspiration.
Stomach	The stomach acts as the central processing chamber for digestion. It secretes powerful acids and enzymes that begin the breakdown of proteins and other complex nutrients. The stomach’s muscular walls churn food into a semi-liquid mixture called chyme, which is then released gradually into the small intestine. Dogs have highly acidic stomachs, capable of dissolving bone fragments and killing harmful bacteria often found in raw or decomposing meat. The stomach also acts as a temporary storage area, allowing digestion to proceed over several hours while nutrients are prepared for absorption further down the tract.
Liver	The liver is one of the most metabolically active organs in the body. It filters blood arriving from the digestive tract, removing toxins and storing essential nutrients such as glycogen, iron, and vitamins A, D, E, and K. It also produces bile, a fluid necessary for the emulsification and digestion of fats. The liver’s functions are tightly integrated with the rest of the digestive system—without it, nutrient metabolism and detoxification would fail.
Gall Bladder	The gall bladder is a small sac located beneath the liver. It stores and concentrates bile, releasing it into the small intestine when fatty food enters the duodenum. Bile breaks large fat droplets into smaller particles, making it easier for digestive enzymes to act. Although a dog can live without a gall bladder, bile flow becomes less regulated, and fat digestion may be less efficient.
Pancreas	The pancreas has both exocrine and endocrine functions. As an exocrine gland, it secretes digestive enzymes that break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the small intestine. As an endocrine organ, it produces hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood glucose levels. A healthy pancreas is essential for balanced digestion and energy metabolism. Inflammation of this organ, known as pancreatitis, can severely disrupt the digestive process and cause pain or nutrient malabsorption.
Duodenum	The duodenum is the first section of the small intestine and the point where stomach acid, bile, and pancreatic enzymes all converge. This mixing zone is where the majority of chemical digestion occurs. The duodenal wall also senses the presence of nutrients and releases hormones that help regulate digestion speed and enzyme output. The careful coordination between the stomach, liver, pancreas, and duodenum is what makes efficient nutrient breakdown possible.
Small Intestine	The small intestine is the longest part of the digestive tract and the main site of nutrient absorption. Its inner surface is lined with millions of microscopic folds and finger-like projections called villi, which dramatically increase surface area. Nutrients pass through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream or lymphatic system, where they are transported throughout the body. Healthy intestinal tissue and a balanced population of beneficial bacteria (the gut microbiome) are essential for strong immunity and efficient digestion. The small intestine also plays a regulatory role, signaling the rest of the digestive system to adjust enzyme secretion and movement based on nutrient content.
Cecum	The cecum is a small pouch that branches off where the small intestine joins the large intestine. It connects to the rest of the digestive tract at only one end, so material can move in and out but does not pass straight through. In dogs, the cecum is relatively short and simple in structure, unlike the large fermentation chambers seen in plant-eating animals such as rabbits or horses. Most food bypasses the cecum entirely, traveling directly from the small intestine into the large intestine. However, a small amount of liquid and fine particles enter the cecum, where resident bacteria help ferment leftover material—especially fiber—and support the balance of the gut microbiome. Although the cecum contributes to microbial health, it is not essential for digestion in dogs. Evidence from both anatomy and clinical observation shows that dogs can live and digest food normally even if the cecum is removed. Its presence represents a vestige of an organ that was more active in ancestral species with more fibrous diets, serving today as a minor but supportive part of the digestive ecosystem.
Large Intestine (Colon)	The large intestine absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining digested material, consolidating it into solid feces. It’s also home to a dense population of microorganisms that ferment residual nutrients, producing beneficial compounds such as short-chain fatty acids. These molecules support colon health and influence immune and metabolic balance throughout the body. Proper hydration and fiber intake help maintain smooth transit through the colon and prevent constipation. The large intestine’s function is less about nutrient extraction and more about moisture balance and microbial stability.
Anus	The anus is the final section of the digestive tract and serves as the exit point for waste. Two rings of muscle, called sphincters, control elimination. Small scent glands located near the anus produce secretions that carry identifying chemical signals used in canine communication. Maintaining anal gland health is part of overall digestive comfort, as blockage or inflammation here can cause irritation and scooting behavior.

How It All Works Together

Digestion is a continuous, coordinated process. Food enters through the mouth, where mechanical and chemical preparation begins, and travels through a series of organs that each specialize in a particular task—acidic digestion in the stomach, enzymatic breakdown and absorption in the small intestine, and microbial fermentation and water recovery in the colon.

What Digestion Actually Involves

Digestion is more than just breaking food apart. It is a multi-step process of mechanical and chemical transformation.

Mechanical digestion includes chewing and stomach contractions that break food into smaller pieces.
Chemical digestion uses enzymes and acids to convert nutrients into forms that the body can absorb:
- Proteins are broken into amino acids
- Fats are converted into fatty acids and glycerol
- Carbohydrates are reduced to simple sugars
- Vitamins and minerals are absorbed either directly or with the help of transporters

These nutrients are then absorbed through the walls of the small intestine and carried into the bloodstream. The cells lining the intestinal wall play a critical role in this process. They act as gatekeepers, allowing useful nutrients through while blocking harmful substances. These cells are linked by structures called tight junctions, which help form a selective barrier. When this barrier becomes compromised, a condition sometimes referred to as “leaky gut,” it can lead to inflammation and immune dysfunction.

Why the GI System Matters Beyond Digestion

The gastrointestinal system supports more than nutrient breakdown. It plays an important role in immune health, hormone signaling, and communication with the brain.

Immune function: A large portion of a dog’s immune system is located in the gut. Immune cells here are the first to respond to foreign materials, including microbes and dietary components.
Gut bacteria (microbiome): The colon houses a complex community of microorganisms that assist with digestion, support vitamin production, and regulate immune responses. When this microbial balance is disrupted, a condition known as dysbiosis, both GI and systemic health can be affected.
Gut-brain axis: The nervous system of the gut communicates with the brain through nerves and chemical signals. This connection helps explain why gut health can influence mood, stress response, and behavior.

What Happens When Digestive Function Is Disrupted

Because the digestive system is responsible for both nutrient absorption and immune surveillance, even small disruptions can have broad effects. When the process of digestion is incomplete or the gut lining becomes inflamed or damaged, the body may fail to absorb essential nutrients. This can lead to weight loss, fatigue, or poor coat quality, even in dogs with healthy appetites.

At the same time, the immune system’s close relationship with the gut means that digestive disturbances may contribute to skin issues, increased reactivity to food, or general systemic inflammation. Changes in gut motility, how quickly or slowly food moves through the digestive tract, may result in diarrhea, constipation, or inconsistent stool quality. Shifts in the gut microbiome can also lead to gas, bloating, or recurring digestive discomfort.

These effects are not always limited to the gastrointestinal tract itself. In many dogs, the first signs of digestive dysfunction may appear as behavior changes, itchy skin, or chronic ear infections, all of which may be linked to gut inflammation or impaired barrier function. Over time, chronic digestive stress can also place strain on other systems, including the liver, pancreas, and adrenal glands.

Understanding and Supporting GI Health

Supporting digestive health means recognizing how different parts of the system work together, and how to spot when that system is under stress. While some conditions are acute and resolve quickly, others may be chronic, subtle, or easily mistaken for unrelated problems.

Many digestive disorders begin with a disruption in just one part of the system: poor enzyme output from the pancreas, an imbalanced gut microbiome, or chronic immune activation in the lining of the intestine. But because digestion is a chain of connected processes, issues in one area can cascade into others. A dog with food sensitivities, for example, may go on to develop chronic inflammation that alters nutrient absorption or gut motility. A dog with low digestive enzyme levels may experience secondary bacterial overgrowth.

Maintaining a healthy digestive system involves more than managing symptoms. It includes identifying and supporting the underlying structures that enable food to be broken down, nutrients to be absorbed, and waste to be eliminated efficiently. This may involve diet, microbiome support, or medical treatment.

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Health Conditions

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Image & Title	At a Glance

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Therapeutic Interventions

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Image & Title	Info Column
Acupuncture	At a Glance Acupuncture is a treatment that uses carefully selected points on the body to communicate with the nervous system. These points are chosen because they are especially good at sending signals through nerves and connective tissue. Stimulating them can affect how the brain processes pain, muscle tension, and inflammation. For this reason, acupuncture is often used as a supportive therapy alongside other veterinary care. Connecting the Dots Acupuncture has been used to influence gut motility and visceral comfort. It may support appetite, nausea control, and bowel regularity. GI-focused use is usually adjunctive and individualized.
Cerenia/ Maropitant (Antiemetic)	At a Glance Cerenia is an FDA-approved antiemetic for dogs, available as an oral tablet or injectable formulation, that suppresses vomiting by blocking neural pathways involved in the vomiting reflex. It does not address the underlying cause of nausea but may improve short-term comfort and hydration. Connecting the Dots Nausea can disrupt feeding behavior and normal digestive processes. Antiemetic support may improve comfort during periods of gastrointestinal upset. Symptom relief is often paired with evaluation of underlying GI contributors.
Elimination Diet Trial	At a Glance An elimination diet trial for dogs systematically removes potential allergens from their diet, followed by careful reintroduction of ingredients. It identifies specific dietary triggers of allergies or sensitivities, aiding in precise dietary management to improve your dog's health and comfort. Connecting the Dots Elimination diets are a primary tool for identifying food-related contributors to chronic GI signs. Dietary trials help distinguish food-responsive enteropathy from other gastrointestinal disorders. Clear symptom response during a trial can guide long-term nutrition strategy.
Fecal Transplant	At a Glance A fecal Transplant is the transfer of stool from a healthy donor dog into a recipient’s gut to restore beneficial bacteria and support digestive health. It’s used for chronic diarrhea, gut imbalances, and some immune-related conditions. This can be done via veterinary-administered enemas, capsules made from freeze-dried donor stool, or oral suspensions available through specialized veterinary providers. Connecting the Dots Severe gut dysbiosis can impair digestion, motility, and stool quality. Fecal transplants aim to restore microbial balance within the GI tract. This approach targets ecosystem repair rather than symptom suppression.
Hydrolyzed Diet	At a Glance Hydrolyzed dog foods are prescription diets in which the protein has been chemically broken down into smaller components, called peptides or free amino acids. This process, called hydrolysis, reduces the chances that the immune system will recognize these proteins as allergens. Hydrolyzed diets are commonly used to help manage suspected food allergies, chronic digestive issues, or inflammatory conditions like IBD. Connecting the Dots Hydrolyzed diets are commonly used in conventional GI workups to reduce immune recognition of dietary proteins. They may provide short-term symptom control in some dogs, particularly during diagnostic elimination phases. Long-term use is often weighed against other approaches that prioritize whole-food ingredients and microbiome diversity.
Metronidazole (Antibiotic/ Antiprotozoal)	At a Glance Metronidazole is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal drug prescribed in dogs for certain infections, including Giardia, and sometimes for gastrointestinal inflammation. While it can reduce clinical signs in the short term, it also alters the gut microbiome and is generally intended for limited, case-specific use. Connecting the Dots Metronidazole is by some veterinarians for gastrointestinal infections and inflammatory conditions. Its use for nonspecific or recurrent diarrhea is increasingly evaluated due to microbiome effects. Short-term symptom changes are often weighed against potential impacts on long-term gut balance.
Microbiome Testing	At a Glance Microbiome testing for dogs is a way to look at the bacteria living in the gut using a stool sample. These microbes play a role in digestion, immune signaling, and how nutrients are processed throughout the body. Test results can help show patterns in the gut environment and are sometimes used to track changes over time, such as after diet or probiotic adjustments. Because the microbiome shifts constantly, results reflect a moment in time rather than a fixed measure of gut health. Connecting the Dots Imbalances in gut bacteria can influence digestion, inflammation, and stool patterns. Microbiome testing provides insight into functional GI ecosystem health. Results may guide diet and supplement decisions affecting digestive stability.
Omeprazole/ Prilosec (Proton Pump Inhibitor)	At a Glance Omeprazole/ Prilosec (Proton Pump Inhibitor) reduces stomach acid and treats acid reflux, stomach ulcers, and gastritis. It is given as a daily oral pill and can be temporary or long-term, depending on the condition. While the human version is over-the-counter, veterinarians provide prescription-strength dosages for dogs. Some holistic vets prefer short-term use alongside diet changes and gut-supportive supplements. Connecting the Dots Upper GI irritation and reflux can contribute to nausea and digestive discomfort. Acid suppression may reduce symptoms in select scenarios. Ongoing use is often reassessed due to downstream effects on digestion and gut flora.
Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Supplements	At a Glance Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (Prescription-Strength Enzymes) is a lifelong treatment for dogs with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), where the pancreas fails to produce digestive enzymes. Prescription powders like Viokase-V, PancrePlus, or PanaKare are mixed with every meal to break down fats, proteins, and carbs for proper nutrient absorption. These are available only through veterinarians and must be dosed precisely to prevent malnutrition. Connecting the Dots Insufficient enzyme production disrupts digestion within the small intestine. Enzyme replacement restores proper breakdown of food before absorption. This support is essential for managing chronic maldigestion.
Sucralfate (Coating Agent)	At a Glance Sucralfate (Carafate) (Coating Agent) is a temporary medication that coats the stomach lining to heal ulcers, acid reflux, or GI irritation. It is given as a dissolved tablet or liquid for 5-10 days or longer if needed. It must be prescribed by a veterinarian and is filled at pet pharmacies. Connecting the Dots Compromised GI mucosa can interfere with digestion and nutrient absorption. Sucralfate supports mucosal protection during periods of irritation or injury. It is typically used as a supportive measure alongside broader GI management.
Tylosin/ Tylan Powder (Antibiotic)	At a Glance Tylosin/ Tylan Powder (Antibiotic) is a macrolide antibiotic approved for livestock but used off-label in dogs to manage chronic diarrhea and colitis, particularly antibiotic-responsive diarrhea (ARD). Its exact mechanism in gut health isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to have anti-inflammatory and microbiome-modulating effects rather than acting purely as an antibiotic. It is typically given as a daily powder mixed with food and can be used short-term or long-term, depending on the case. Available by veterinary prescription or through farm supply stores. Connecting the Dots Some chronic diarrhea cases show symptom improvement with tylosin. Response does not always indicate resolution of underlying digestive or microbial drivers. Use is commonly considered alongside dietary and microbiome-focused strategies.
Vitamin B12 Injections (Cobalamin Supplementation)	At a Glance Vitamin B12 Injections (Cobalamin Supplementation) restore B12 levels in dogs with malabsorption issues, such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) or chronic GI disease. Some dogs need B12 long-term, while others receive it temporarily after illness or gut imbalance. It is given as a subcutaneous injection, typically weekly at first, then tapering to monthly if ongoing support is needed. Available through veterinarians, who can administer injections or provide vials and syringes for at-home use. Connecting the Dots Chronic gastrointestinal disease can impair vitamin B12 absorption. Deficiency may worsen digestive symptoms and weight maintenance. Supplementation supports recovery when malabsorption is present.

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Lifestyle Strategies

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Image & Title	Info Column
Dental Care & Oral Hygiene	At a Glance Maintaining oral hygiene helps prevent plaque buildup, gum disease, and systemic infections that can affect the heart, kidneys, and digestive health. Regular brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings reduce the risk of periodontal disease, bad breath, and tooth loss. Connecting the Dots Food breakdown begins in the mouth through chewing and salivary interaction. Pain, tooth instability, or bacterial imbalance can alter how effectively food is processed before swallowing. Maintaining oral structure and comfort supports more consistent mechanical digestion at the first stage.
Dental Chews	At a Glance Dental chews for dogs are chewable products designed to reduce plaque through physical contact with the teeth during chewing. They matter because plaque is the starting point for tartar buildup and gum inflammation, which can progress into more serious dental disease over time. When they work well, they help slow buildup by creating friction along the tooth surface. When they fall short, it is usually because there is not enough chewing time, not enough abrasive texture, or not enough contact with the teeth and gumline. Connecting the Dots The mouth is the first stage of digestion, where teeth and gums prepare food before it moves through the rest of the gastrointestinal tract. This stage depends on a healthy oral environment, which can be disrupted by plaque buildup affecting the teeth and gums over time. Edible dental chews help maintain that environment by physically disrupting plaque, supporting the part of digestion that starts in the mouth. What the chew is made of also matters. Some edible dental chews include fibers, prebiotics, or other ingredients that continue to support digestion after swallowing, while others provide mechanical cleaning but add little to digestive function or may be harder for the body to break down.
Digestion Supplements	At a Glance Digestion supplements support gut health, nutrient absorption, and balanced digestion, especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs or chronic conditions like IBD or pancreatitis. Probiotics, enzymes, and fiber-based supplements help maintain a strong digestive system and prevent issues like diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. Connecting the Dots Digestion supplements can affect how the digestive system handles food once it enters the gut. Certain ingredients can influence nutrient breakdown, gut conditions, and stool consistency. These factors determine how stable and effective digestion is over time.
Healthy Weight Management	At a Glance Healthy weight management for dogs aims to maintain an optimal dog body condition, not just a target weight. Dog obesity increases joint stress and metabolic risk, while being underweight can signal poor nutrition, muscle loss, or underlying illness. Regular body condition scoring with veterinary input helps caregivers track trends and keep dogs in a healthier middle range. Connecting the Dots Digestive function influences nutrient absorption and the ability to maintain stable body condition. Overweight patterns can occur when intake exceeds needs or when activity is limited by discomfort. Underweight patterns often reflect maldigestion, malabsorption, or reduced intake from nausea or pain. Weight trends often stabilize when digestion, appetite, and stool quality become consistent.
Mental Enrichment	At a Glance Mental enrichment keeps dogs engaged and prevents boredom, frustration, and cognitive decline by encouraging problem-solving and natural instincts. Activities like puzzle toys, scent work, training, and interactive play stimulate a dog’s brain, reducing anxiety and promoting overall well-being. Connecting the Dots Stress and arousal states can change gut motility and appetite patterns. Enrichment that promotes calm focus can support healthier digestive rhythm. Food based enrichment can slow eating and reduce gulping related GI stress. GI sensitive dogs often benefit from enrichment that is low arousal and predictable.
Species-Appropriate Diet	At a Glance A species-appropriate diet for dogs emphasizes foods that align with canine digestive biology and nutritional needs. It prioritizes nutrient-dense ingredients, adequate high-quality protein and fat, appropriate moisture, and forms of nutrients the body can readily absorb and use. Because dogs vary widely in age, breed, activity level, and health status, species-appropriate feeding functions as a flexible framework rather than a single prescribed diet. Connecting the Dots Diet composition directly affects digestion, motility, and stool formation. Whole-food diets may better support normal gut signaling and microbial balance. Nutrition is often central to restoring long-term gastrointestinal stability.
Stress Reduction & Anxiety Management	At a Glance Chronic stress and anxiety disrupt a dog’s emotional balance, immune function, digestion, and long-term health. Supporting emotional well-being through a stable environment, physical and mental enrichment, and targeted nutrition helps dogs feel secure and resilient. Connecting the Dots Stress shifts the body away from rest-and-digest functions and toward short-term survival responses. This can disrupt appetite, gut movement, and digestive comfort, especially when stress is frequent or prolonged. Reducing stress helps support more stable digestion by making it easier for the body to return to a regulated state.

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Foods

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Food Components

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Food Component Groups

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Nutrients

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Nutrient Types

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Nutrient Sub-Types

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Follow the Research

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Title	Information
Bacillus subtilis: a universal cell factory for industry, agriculture, biomaterials and medicine	At a Glance This peer-reviewed mini-review (Microbial Cell Factories, 2020) explains why Bacillus subtilis is considered a reliable microbial “cell factory.” The authors describe how this bacterium grows quickly, thrives on inexpensive substrates, and naturally secretes proteins, making it easier to recover useful products. They also highlight the mature set of genetic tools that allow scientists to fine-tune how the microbe works. Together, these qualities make B. subtilis a platform for producing enzymes, vitamins (such as riboflavin [B2] and menaquinone-7 [K2/MK-7]), biomaterials, and probiotic applications. Connecting the Dots The review highlights B. subtilis spores as feed additives that survive the gut, germinate, and release enzymes that help break down plant-based diets. By aiding digestion and reducing pathogenic bacteria, it supports healthier gastrointestinal function in animals.
Bacillus subtilis: a universal cell factory for industry, agriculture, biomaterials and medicine	At a Glance This peer-reviewed mini-review (Microbial Cell Factories, 2020) explains why Bacillus subtilis is considered a reliable microbial “cell factory.” The authors describe how this bacterium grows quickly, thrives on inexpensive substrates, and naturally secretes proteins, making it easier to recover useful products. They also highlight the mature set of genetic tools that allow scientists to fine-tune how the microbe works. Together, these qualities make B. subtilis a platform for producing enzymes, vitamins (such as riboflavin [B2] and menaquinone-7 [K2/MK-7]), biomaterials, and probiotic applications. Connecting the Dots The review highlights B. subtilis spores as feed additives that survive the gut, germinate, and release enzymes that help break down plant-based diets. By aiding digestion and reducing pathogenic bacteria, it supports healthier gastrointestinal function in animals.
Chronic Diarrhea in Dogs – Retrospective Study in 136 Cases	At a Glance This 2017 retrospective study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine examined the underlying causes of chronic diarrhea in dogs and what factors influence recovery. By reviewing 136 clinical cases, the researchers aimed to clarify how often different conditions are responsible and which findings may help predict outcomes. The study found that most cases were linked to primary intestinal disease, especially inflammatory enteropathies, with many dogs improving after treatment. These findings provide a clearer picture of how chronic diarrhea presents and progresses in real-world veterinary care. Connecting the Dots The study organizes chronic diarrhea based on where dysfunction appears to occur within the digestive tract, including the small intestine, large intestine, or both. It uses clinical signs like stool pattern, weight loss, and vomiting to help differentiate these categories. These patterns reflect how disruption in different parts of the gastrointestinal system leads to distinct forms of digestive dysfunction.
Incidence, complications and therapeutic evaluation of clinical hypothyroidism in different breeds of dogs	At a Glance This 2025 clinical study published in BMC Veterinary Research investigated how often hypothyroidism is the underlying cause in dogs presenting with common concerns like hair loss or obesity. The researchers aimed to clarify whether these everyday clinical signs are frequently linked to thyroid dysfunction, how the condition progresses when unrecognized, and how dogs respond to treatment. The findings show that hypothyroidism is not uncommon in these cases and can affect multiple body systems when it advances. Connecting the Dots Normal gastrointestinal motility depends on coordinated neuromuscular function and metabolic regulation. In this study, some hypothyroid dogs presented with vomiting and were found to have esophageal dilation on radiographs. This reflects impaired movement of food through the esophagus associated with thyroid hormone deficiency.
Potential Adverse Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Dogs and Cats	At a Glance This 2013 review looks at the possible risks of omega-3 fatty acids in dogs and cats, especially EPA and DHA from fish oil. While omega-3s are commonly used to support skin, joint, heart, and kidney health, the authors explain that high amounts can sometimes cause issues like GI upset, changes in clotting, oxidative stress, immune shifts, or slower wound healing. The paper also stresses that plant-based ALA is not the same as EPA and DHA, so the source of omega-3s matters when considering both benefits and risks. Connecting the Dots GI upset (vomiting, diarrhea) is one of the most common adverse effects of omega-3 supplementation. The review explains undigested fats can enter the colon and cause secretory diarrhea. Up to 10% of dogs with cancer experienced abnormal stools when fed high-fat omega-3–rich diets.
Roles of plant-based ingredients and phytonutrients in canine nutrition and health	At a Glance The 2021 review article by Tanprasertsuk et al. synthesizes existing research to provide a clear picture of how natural compounds found in fruits, vegetables, and herbs—like carotenoids, polyphenols, and phytosterols—may support dogs' overall well-being. Connecting the Dots Certain polyphenols, such as those found in blueberries, may promote a balanced gut microbiome, contributing to digestive health. The study indicates that dietary fiber from foods like pumpkin can support healthy digestion and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

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Dig Deeper

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Title	URL	At a Glance
What Should Dog Poop Look Like?	https://www.bernies.com/university/dig-deeper/what-should-dog-poop-look-like/	Healthy dog poop is typically well-formed, moist, and easy to pick up, with a consistent medium to dark brown color. It should hold its shape without being too hard or too soft, reflecting balanced digestion, proper hydration, and normal gut function. While size and slight variations can differ based on diet and the individual dog, stool that is predictable and structured is generally a sign that the digestive system is working as it should.
Why do dogs throw up yellow liquid?	https://www.bernies.com/university/dig-deeper/why-do-dogs-throw-up-yellow-liquid/	When a dog vomits yellow liquid, it’s typically bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. This yellow substance can be vomited when a dog’s stomach is empty, mildly irritated, or reacting to something ingested like grass. While it can be harmless in isolated instances, repeated bile vomiting may indicate an underlying issue with digestion, inflammation, or gastrointestinal health.

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Blog Articles

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Featured Image Link	Blog Title	Blog_URL_Link
	Dog Flatulence: Common Causes and How to Fix It	https://www.bernies.com/7-reasons-dogs-fart-and-7-ways-to-stop-it/
	The Role Of Dog Gut Health In Their Overall Mental Health	https://www.bernies.com/blogs/bernies-blog/the-role-of-dog-gut-health-in-overall-mental-health/
	Is Your Dog's Mood Affecting Their Digestion?	https://www.bernies.com/digestive-issues-mood/
	Consistent Regular Bowel Movements in Dogs	https://www.bernies.com/consistent-regular-bowel-movements-in-dogs/
	Dog Digestion: How to Help Your Dog to Poop	https://www.bernies.com/dog-digestion-how-to-help-your-dog-poop/
	Do Dogs Help Human Gut Health? Science is Looking!	https://www.bernies.com/do-dogs-help-human-gut-health-science-is-looking/
	How to Flush a Dog's Digestive System	https://www.bernies.com/doggy-detox-how-to-flush-a-dog-s-digestive-system/
	The Best Healthy Dog Food Ingredients for Dog Gut Health	https://www.bernies.com/what-are-the-best-ingredients-for-supporting-a-healthy-gut-naturally-for-dogs/
	Stalled Digestion in Dogs	https://www.bernies.com/stalled-digestion-in-dogs/
	Malabsorption in Dogs and the Signs Pet Owners Should Know	https://www.bernies.com/intestinal-malabsorption-in-dogs/
	Understanding Your Dog's Digestion: How Fast Do Dogs Digest Food?	https://www.bernies.com/how-long-does-it-take-a-dog-to-digest-food/
	Dog Gut Health and Immunity: There's A Connection!	https://www.bernies.com/blogs/bernies-blog/dog-gut-health-and-immunity-theres-a-connection/
	How Does Good Dog Gut Health Help Battle Toxins?	https://www.bernies.com/good-dog-gut-health-battle-toxins/
	Dog Gut Health and Genetics: Is There A Connection?	https://www.bernies.com/blogs/bernies-blog/dog-gut-health-and-genetics-is-there-a-connection/
	Puppy Gut Health 101: Diet, Care, and Prevention Tips	https://www.bernies.com/blogs/bernies-blog/puppy-gut-health-101-diet-care-and-prevention-tips/
	Gut Health for Senior Dogs: Tailoring the Approach For Our Older Friends	https://www.bernies.com/blogs/bernies-blog/gut-health-for-senior-dogs-tailoring-the-approach-for-our-older-friends/
	Gut Health During Dog Pregnancy and Lactation: What You Need to Know	https://www.bernies.com/blogs/bernies-blog/gut-health-during-dog-pregnancy-and-lactation-what-you-need-to-know/
	Digestive Enzymes For Dogs: The Unsung Heroes For Dog Gut Health	https://www.bernies.com/blogs/bernies-blog/digestive-enzymes-for-dogs-the-unsung-heroes-for-dog-gut-health/
	Understanding Gut Microbiota and Dog Weight Management	https://www.bernies.com/blogs/bernies-blog/understanding-gut-microbiota-and-dog-weight-management/
	The Role of a Balanced Diet in Promoting Gut Health	https://www.bernies.com/blogs/bernies-blog/the-role-of-a-balanced-diet-in-promoting-gut-health/
	What is Rotational Feeding for Dogs? Breaking Down the Pros and Cons	https://www.bernies.com/blogs/bernies-blog/what-is-rotational-feeding-for-dogs-breaking-down-the-pros-and-cons/