Dog Health

Foods that can Cause Stomach Ache in Dogs

Foods that can Cause Stomach Ache in Dogs

Esther Evangeline, Editor

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Esther Evangeline, Editor

Dogs, just like humans, can experience digestive issues and stomach aches due to certain foods. Understanding their digestive system and what causes these ailments is crucial for every dog owner. While some foods may seem harmless to us, they can pose serious health risks to our furry friends.

Common Symptoms of Stomach Ache in Dogs

Dog vomit.
Dog vomit. Image by Annebel146 via Depositphotos.

Recognizing the signs of a stomach ache in dogs is the first step towards preventing more severe health problems. Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, excessive gas, and abdominal pain. Changes in appetite or behavior can also indicate digestive discomfort.

Human Foods That Are Harmful to Dogs

chocolate bars
Chocolate bras stacked. Image by Towfiqu Barbhuiya via Unsplash.

While sharing a meal with your pet might seem loving, many human foods can harm dogs. Foods such as chocolate, onions, garlic, and grapes contain substances toxic to dogs, causing acute stomach pain and even more severe health issues in extreme cases.

Dairy Products and Lactose Intolerance

A glass of milk
A glass of milk. Image by by An Vision via Unsplash

Many dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme lactase needed to break down lactose found in dairy products. Feeding your dog milk, cheese, or ice cream can lead to stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Fatty Foods and Pancreatitis

raw sausages: Listeria in dogs
Raw sausages. Image via Pixabay

High-fat foods can trigger pancreatitis, a condition that causes inflammation in the pancreas. Fatty foods like bacon, sausages, or fried items not only lead to stomachaches but may also result in severe health implications such as obesity and heart issues.

Spicy Foods and Gastrointestinal Irritation

Bacon fat trimmings. Image by Wright Brand Bacon on Unsplash.

Spicy foods may be delightful to our taste buds, but they can cause significant gastrointestinal irritation in dogs. Such foods can lead to discomfort, diarrhea, and even long-term digestive issues in some cases.

Artificial Sweeteners

sugar sweetener in wooden scoop
Sugar sweetener in wooden scoop. Image by angelicavaihel via Pixabay

Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free products, poses a grave risk to dogs. Ingesting xylitol can result in the rapid release of insulin, causing hypoglycemia, seizures, and even liver failure.

Raw Foods: Bones and Salmonella Risk

Young working type english springer spaniel puppy eating raw meat.
Young working type english springer spaniel puppy eating raw meat. Image by chrisga via Depositphotos.

While raw diets are a growing trend, feeding dogs raw foods can pose risks. Raw meats and eggs can carry salmonella, and bones can splinter, causing physical injury or blockages in the digestive tract.

Toxic Plants and Ingested Foreign Bodies

A pug dog relaxing indoors beside a plant and a cozy setup, exuding warmth.
A pug dog relaxing indoors beside a plant and a cozy setup, exuding warmth. Image by Mimo´s Photography (Helyin Bermúdez) via Pixabay

Many household and outdoor plants are toxic to dogs, such as lilies and azaleas. Additionally, dogs are known for swallowing foreign objects, which can cause gastrointestinal distress or emergencies like blockages.

Consulting Your Veterinarian

Golden retriever eating
Golden retriever eating. Image by IgorVetushko via Depositphotos

If your dog frequently suffers from stomach aches, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian. They can help diagnose any underlying conditions and advise you on the appropriate diet and care to keep your pet healthy.

Preventing Stomach Issues with a Proper Diet

Dog eating natural food from a bowl
Dog eating natural food from a bowl. Image by Amaviael via Depositphotos.

To avoid stomach aches, ensure your dog is given a balanced, appropriate diet designed specifically for its breed, size, age, and health condition. Prevent access to harmful foods and encourage healthy eating habits to promote overall digestive health. In conclusion, being mindful of your dog’s consumption can prevent stomach aches and contribute to their longevity and happiness. Always be attentive to your dog’s needs and provide them with a safe and nutritious diet.

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