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How to Help Dogs with Digestive Problems
- hello66889
- 1 day ago
- 11 min read
Digestive issues, such as indigestion, and intestinal problems in dogs are one of the most common concerns among pet owners in Switzerland. A sensitive stomach, occasional diarrhea, excessive gas, or food intolerances can significantly affect the quality of life of your four-legged friend. While many owners rely on expensive specialized foods or medications, there is a more natural and effective solution: fresh food. This article explores how fresh, natural nutrition can transform your dog's digestive health, providing lasting relief and benefits that go far beyond the digestive system.
Common Digestive Problems in Dogs: Symptoms and Causes
Digestive disorders in dogs can manifest themselves in various ways and can be caused by various reasons. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding the causes is the first step towards an effective solution.
Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore
Dogs can't tell us when they're feeling unwell, but their bodies communicate through signals that attentive owners can recognize:
Diarrhea : Occasional or chronic, can range from mild to severe
Vomiting : From simple occasional regurgitation to frequent episodes
Excessive gas : Frequent, smelly flatulence
Abdominal bloating : Tense or swollen belly after meals
Intestinal noises : Excessive gurgling (borborygmi)
Loss of appetite : Disinterest in food or selectivity
Excessive licking : Especially of lips or cold surfaces
Changes in stool : Abnormal consistency, mucus or blood
Veterinary medicine experts recommend consulting a veterinarian and not ignoring these symptoms, even when they seem mild. They can indicate underlying problems that, if left untreated, can worsen over time and compromise the animal's overall health.
Main causes of digestive problems
Digestive problems in Swiss dogs can arise from many factors, making it necessary to use a special dog food diet.
Inadequate nutrition
Low-quality industrial food : full of additives, preservatives and by-products.
Sudden changes in diet : too rapid food transitions.
Hard-to-digest ingredients : cheap grains, animal by-products.
Food intolerances and allergies
Common proteins : beef, chicken, dairy.
Cereals : wheat, corn, soy.
Additives : colorants, preservatives, artificial flavors.
Medical conditions
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) : Common in stressed dogs.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) : an increasingly diagnosed chronic condition.
Pancreatitis : Inflammation of the pancreas that impairs digestion.
Enzyme insufficiency : lack of digestive enzymes.
Environmental factors
Stress : changes in routine, moving, new family members.
Ingestion of foreign bodies : particularly common in puppies.
Intestinal parasites : worms or protozoa such as giardia.
Research in the field of veterinary gastroenterology indicates that a significant percentage of dogs with chronic digestive problems show improvement when the dietary cause is identified and addressed with an appropriate diet. In fact, nutrition is one of the most influential factors in canine digestive health.
Why Processed Food Can Make Digestive Problems Worse
Have you ever wondered why your dog continues to have digestive issues despite following standard recommendations? The answer may be right in the bowl. Commercial dog food, especially lower quality ones, can be an aggravating factor for dogs with sensitive digestive systems. Understanding why can help owners make more informed choices.
Problematic production process
The production method of industrial dry food presents several critical aspects:
High Temperature Extrusion : The process that creates the kibble uses temperatures up to 200°C, which:
They denature proteins, making them less digestible
destroy natural enzymes that aid digestion
alter the structure of fats, potentially creating pro-inflammatory compounds
Additive | Function | Potential problems |
Artificial Colorants | Attractive appearance for owners | Allergic reactions, hyperactivity |
Flavourings | Palatability | Excessive stimulation of appetite, intolerances |
Corn gluten | Economical binder | Difficult to digest, potential allergen |
Added sugars | Palatability | Alteration of the intestinal microbiome |
Salts | Preservation and taste | Water retention, renal overload |
Lack of live enzymes and probiotics
Industrial food is practically free of:
Natural digestive enzymes : Found in fresh foods, they help break down nutrients.
Live probiotics : beneficial bacteria that support gut flora.
Natural prebiotics : fibers that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut.
This deficiency can lead to an imbalance of the gut microbiome (dysbiosis), a condition increasingly recognized as a root cause of many chronic digestive problems.
Fresh ingredients that promote healthy digestion
Fresh food offers a natural solution to digestive problems thanks to specific ingredients that actively support gastrointestinal health.
Easily digestible proteins
Not all proteins are created equal when it comes to digestibility:
Gently cooked white meats :
Chicken: particularly digestible when cooked at low temperatures.
Turkey: An excellent lean option for sensitive stomachs.
Rabbit: one of the least allergenic proteins, ideal for dogs with intolerances.
White fish :
Cod: Lean protein with anti-inflammatory fatty acids.
Plaice: easily digestible and rarely allergenic.
Haddock: Good source of delicate protein.
Egg :
They contain proteins with the highest biological value.
They provide lecithin which supports the digestion of fats.
They offer a complete range of essential amino acids.
Animal nutrition research has shown that fresh animal proteins, when gently cooked, retain their molecular structure more intact. This means that the dog's digestive enzymes can break them down more easily, reducing the load on the digestive system and improving nutrient absorption.
In my veterinary clinic, I have seen amazing results with a Labrador named Leo who had been suffering from chronic diarrhea for almost a year. After numerous attempts with specialized commercial diets without lasting success, we settled on a fresh diet with carefully selected proteins. Within three weeks, his stools were normalized and his coat was shiny again. The transformation was so dramatic that the owners sent me “before and after” photos that I now use as examples with other clients.
Digestible carbohydrates and beneficial fibers
The right carbohydrates can support digestive health instead of compromising it:
Sweet potatoes :
Rich in soluble fiber that feeds beneficial bacteria.
They contain antioxidants that reduce intestinal inflammation.
They provide readily available energy.
Long cooked brown rice :
Prolonged cooking breaks down resistant starch.
Low allergenic potential compared to other cereals.
Soothing effect on the intestinal mucosa.
Pumpkin :
Excellent source of soluble and insoluble fiber.
It helps regulate intestinal transit.
It contains mucilage which protects the intestinal mucosa.
Ground flaxseed :
Rich in mucilage that calms irritated intestines.
They provide anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.
They act as prebiotics to feed beneficial bacteria.
Clinical studies in veterinary gastroenterology have shown that the inclusion of specific fermentable fibers in the diet of dogs with chronic colitis can lead to a significant improvement in symptoms. These fibers feed the beneficial bacteria in the intestine, which in turn produce short-chain fatty acids with anti-inflammatory effects on the intestinal mucosa.
Quality fats in appropriate quantities
The right fats are essential for digestive health:
Coconut oil :
Contains easily absorbable medium chain fatty acids (MCT).
Antimicrobial properties that help balance the intestinal flora.
Does not require bile salts for digestion, ideal for dogs with pancreatic insufficiency.
Olive oil :
Rich in monounsaturated fats which reduce inflammation.
Contains polyphenols with antioxidant properties, ideal for a balanced diet.
It helps the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Fish oil :
Concentrated source of EPA and DHA, powerful anti-inflammatories.
Supports the integrity of the intestinal barrier.
It modulates the immune response in the intestine.
Veterinary nutritional research emphasizes that the quality and quantity of fats are crucial to digestive health, according to a veterinarian. Too much fat can overburden the pancreas, while low-quality or rancid fats can directly irritate the intestines. Fresh, high-quality fats in dog foods, in the right proportions, support digestive health and nutrient absorption.
Digestive Herbs and Superfoods
Some special ingredients can further boost digestive health:
Ginger :
It stimulates gastrointestinal motility.
Natural anti-nausea properties.
Anti-inflammatory effects.
Peppermint (in small quantities):
Relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract.
Reduces gas and bloating.
Antimicrobial properties.
Chamomile :
Calming effects on the digestive system.
Reduces intestinal inflammation.
Antispasmodic properties.
Natural probiotics :
Unsweetened yogurt (in small quantities).
Milk or water kefir.
Fermented vegetables (in very limited quantities).
These ingredients, when incorporated appropriately into fresh food, create a synergy that supports the entire digestive system.
Fresh Food Transition Plan for Sensitive Dogs
The transition to fresh food for dogs with intestinal and digestive problems requires a particularly gradual and careful approach, considering the use of a dog by owners who monitor any reactions.
Ultra-smooth transition for sensitive stomachs
For dogs with digestive problems, a standard 7-10 day transition may not be sufficient:
Phase | Duration | Fresh food | Previous food |
1 | Days 1-5 | 10% | 90% |
2 | Days 6-10 | 25% | 75% |
3 | Days 11-15 | 50% | 50% |
4 | Days 16-20 | 75% | 25% |
5 | Days 21+ | 100% | 0% |
Veterinary nutritionists recommend a very slow transition for dogs with chronic digestive issues. This gradual approach gives the gut microbiome time to adapt and reduces the risk of flare-ups during the dietary change.
Monitoring during the transition
During the transition period, it is important to carefully monitor:
Stool consistency : Use a scale from 1 (very hard) to 7 (watery), aiming for 2-3.
Frequency of defecation : It should gradually normalize.
Flatulence : This should gradually decrease.
Energy and vitality : Often increases with improved digestion.
Appetite : Should stabilize or improve.
Elimination diet to identify intolerances
In some cases, it may be helpful to start with an elimination diet:
Elimination phase (4-6 weeks):
A single new or rarely consumed protein source (e.g. rabbit, duck).
A single source of carbohydrates (e.g. sweet potatoes).
Minimal fat (coconut or olive oil in small quantities).
No other ingredients.
Reintroduction phase :
Add a new ingredient every 5-7 days.
Monitor carefully for any reactions.
Document problematic ingredients.
Final personalized diet :
Based only on well-tolerated ingredients.
Gradually enriched to ensure nutritional completeness.
Specific formulations for common digestive problems
Different digestive problems require slightly different nutritional approaches.
For chronic or intermittent diarrhea
Protein : 55-65% highly digestible protein such as chicken, turkey or white fish.
Carbohydrates : 7-9% well-cooked white rice or potatoes.
Fiber : added pumpkin (1-2%) for its regulating effect.
Fat : Reduced to 0.9-1.3%, mainly from coconut oil.
Probiotics : natural yogurt or kefir in small quantities (1-2%).
Herbs : Chamomile for its calming effect.
For excessive gas and bloating
Protein : 55-65% low-residue protein such as white fish or eggs.
Carbohydrates : 7-9% sweet potatoes or rice.
Digestive herbs : fennel, ginger or mint in small quantities.
Avoid : legumes, cabbage, onions and other fermentable foods.
Meals : smaller and more frequent to reduce the digestive load.
For chronic vomiting or reflux
Protein : 55-65% lean protein such as chicken or turkey
Consistency : Softer and moister for easier passage
Fat : Reduced to a minimum (0.9-1.3%)
Meals : Small and frequent (3-4 per day)
Herbs : Ginger for its anti-nausea properties
Position : Feed in an elevated position
For food intolerances
Alternative Protein : 55-65% less common protein sources like duck, rabbit, or venison.
Alternative carbohydrates : 7-9% quinoa, millet or sweet potatoes.
Approach : Elimination diet followed by controlled reintroduction.
Additives : None, not even herbs or supplements initially.
Recovery times and realistic expectations
Improving digestive problems through fresh food takes time and patience.
Typical improvement timescales
Phase | Timing | What to expect |
Initial | 3-7 days | Reduction of gas and bloating |
Intermedia | 2-4 weeks | Improved stool consistency |
Advanced | 1-3 months | Normalization of digestive function |
Complete | 3-6 months | Healing of the intestinal mucosa and balanced microbiome |
It is important to understand that the intestinal healing process takes time. The intestinal epithelium is completely renewed every 3-5 days, but the restoration of a healthy microbiome and the reduction of chronic inflammation can take several weeks or months, depending on the severity and duration of the problem.
Signs of improvement to monitor
Stool : more formed, normal color, less frequent.
Flatulence : significant reduction.
Appetite : more regular and enthusiastic.
Energy : Increased activity levels.
Coat : more shine and less shedding.
Behavior : Less licking and signs of discomfort.
When to consult the vet
Despite the benefits of fresh food, some intestinal problems, such as indigestion and gastritis, require veterinary intervention:
Diarrhea that persists for more than 2 weeks despite dieting.
Frequent vomiting that does not improve.
Weight loss despite normal appetite.
Lethargy or depression.
Blood in stool or vomit.
Fever or other signs of illness.
Fresh Food Recipes for Digestive Problems
Here are some basic dog food recipes that can be adapted to your dog's specific needs, making dog care more personalized and effective.
Soothing recipe for irritated intestine
Ingredients :
55-65% lean chicken, gently cooked
7-9% white rice, well cooked and almost creamy
4-6% pumpkin, cooked and mashed
0.9-1.3% coconut oil
Enough water for a soft consistency
Preparation :
Cook the chicken over low heat without seasoning.
Cook the rice until very soft.
Mix all ingredients.
Allow to cool before serving.
Recipe to reduce gas and bloating
Ingredients :
55-65% white fish (cod or hake)
7-9% sweet potatoes, well cooked
4-6% courgettes, cooked and finely chopped
0.9-1.3% olive oil
A pinch of fennel or ginger (optional)
Basic hypoallergenic recipe
Ingredients :
55-65% rabbit or duck, gently cooked
7-9% white potatoes, well cooked
4-6% carrots, cooked and finely chopped
0.9-1.3% coconut oil
Preparation :
Cook the meat over low heat without seasoning.
Cook the potatoes until soft.
Cook the carrots until tender.
Mix all ingredients and chop or blend lightly.
Supplementing fresh food with natural digestive aids
In addition to fresh food, some natural supports can speed digestive recovery.
Specific probiotics for dogs
Probiotics can help restore a healthy gut microbiome:
Beneficial strains : Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium animalis, Enterococcus faecium.
Dosage : Follow the specific instructions for the size of the dog.
Timing : Administer away from meals and antibiotics.
Forms : powders, openable capsules or liquids.
Digestive enzymes
Enzymes can support digestion while the gut heals:
Main types : protease, amylase, lipase, cellulase.
Natural sources : pineapple, papaya, kiwi (in small quantities).
Administration : Mix with food just before serving.
Duration : Often only needed temporarily.
Intestine calming herbs
Some herbs have soothing properties for the digestive tract:
Mallow : forms a protective gel on the intestinal mucosa.
Calendula : anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
Althaea : emollient and protective effect.
Dosage : always in minimal quantities, appropriate to weight.
Long-term maintenance
Once digestive problems are resolved, it is important to maintain the results through a balanced diet.
Protein Rotation Plan
To prevent the development of new intolerances:
Weekly Rotation : Change protein source every 7-10 days.
Different options : Alternate between 3-4 well-tolerated proteins.
Gradual introduction : Testing new proteins in small amounts.
Continuous monitoring
Even after improvement, it is important to continue to observe:
Food diary : write down what your dog eats and how he reacts.
Weight Management : Weigh yourself regularly to ensure you maintain your ideal weight.
Stool assessment : Check consistency and frequency regularly.
Veterinary Check-ups : Maintain regular check-ups.
Seasonal adjustments
The diet can be adapted according to the season:
Summer : more hydration, lighter proteins, smaller and more frequent meals.
Winter : slightly more caloric, healthy fats in moderately increased quantities.
Spring/Fall : Gradual transitions between summer and winter diets.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Digestive Health
Switching to fresh food represents a holistic approach to digestive issues, addressing the underlying causes rather than masking the symptoms. The benefits extend beyond simply solving immediate problems to the overall health and quality of life of the dog.
I still remember with emotion the case of Bella, a little 7-year-old mixed breed who came to my office with a dog after seeing three different vets for chronic digestive issues. The owners were exhausted and the dog was visibly in pain. After careful evaluation, we implemented a personalized fresh diet with a very gradual transition. The transformation was extraordinary: not only did her digestive issues improve, but her energy returned to levels that her owners hadn't seen in years. This is just one of many cases that convinced me of the therapeutic power of fresh food.
Veterinary nutrition research continues to highlight how fresh, natural, and personalized nutrition can transform the lives of dogs with chronic digestive issues. It is often the most effective and long-lasting solution, treating the underlying cause rather than temporarily suppressing symptoms.
For dog owners in Switzerland, switching to a quality fresh diet is an investment in the long-term health of their pet. With patience, careful observation, and a personalized approach, most digestive problems can be significantly improved or completely resolved.
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