Are you a dog owner concerned about acid reflux in your dog? Acid reflux, also known as GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), is a common condition that affects dogs of all ages. It can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as vomiting and regurgitation, which can be difficult to manage. Fortunately, there are treatments available that can help reduce the severity of acid reflux in dogs. Continue reading to learn more about acid reflux in dogs and how it can be treated effectively!

What are the causes of acid reflux in dogs?

Acid reflux in dogs or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is when the highly acidic contents from the stomach move back up into the esophagus and throat, causing irritation, discomfort, and even damage to the esophageal lining. Normally, the lower esophageal sphincter muscle should keep acid from moving up, but when it doesn’t close properly acid reflux can occur.

The causes of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in dogs can be multifaceted, meaning it often involves a combination of anatomical, dietary, and underlying medical factors.

Anatomically, a weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES) or the presence of a hiatal hernia can contribute to acid reflux in dogs, as these conditions can allow stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.

Dietary factors play a significant role in the development of acid reflux in dogs; high-fat foods increase the likelihood of acid reflux and GERD in dogs. High-fat foods can result in slower than normal gastric emptying, therefore allowing for acid to travel back up into the esophagus.

Uncommonly, 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 can cause acid to back up into the esophagus and throat, resulting in GERD.

Finally, underlying medical factors can be at the root of acid reflux in dogs. Common conditions such as gastritis, pancreatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can all cause acid reflux and GERD-like symptoms in dogs.

What are the symptoms of acid reflux in dogs?

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can manifest in dogs with a variety of symptoms that may differ among individual animals. Some dogs may not exhibit apparent signs, making it essential for pet owners to recognize common symptoms to address the issue promptly.

Here are several possible symptoms and indications of acid reflux and GERD in dogs:

  • Regurgitation: This prominent symptom, distinct from vomiting, involves dogs expelling undigested or partially digested food, stomach acid, and bile.
  • Vomiting: Although regurgitation is more prevalent in dogs with GERD, some may also experience bouts of vomiting.
  • Hypersalivation: Dogs with acid reflux or GERD may drool copiously due to increased saliva production, a bodily response to esophageal irritation and inflammation.
  • Gagging or repeated swallowing: Dogs with acid reflux may display discomfort or pain when swallowing (dysphagia), as the inflamed esophagus can induce irritation.
  • Persistent coughing: Acid reflux can aggravate the esophagus, resulting in coughing, particularly with a change in position, and may be more frequent in the evening. In severe cases, reflux can result in aspiration pneumonia, causing cough.
  • Halitosis: The presence of stomach acid and bile in the esophagus and mouth can cause foul-smelling breath in dogs with GERD.
  • Anxiety or restlessness: Dogs experiencing pain or discomfort from GERD may whine, pace, or exhibit other signs of agitation.

How is acid reflux diagnosed in dogs?

Diagnosing acid reflux in dogs or GERD involves a combination of clinical history evaluation, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests.

The diagnosis of acid reflux in dogs is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning that other conditions are initially ruled out to determine acid reflux or GERD as the primary cause of the symptoms.

To effectively assess whether your dog is suffering from acid reflux, as well as to rule out other potential health issues, the following diagnostic tests are commonly used:

Once your veterinarian has ruled out other potential causes and determined that GERD is the most likely explanation for your dog's symptoms, they will develop a treatment plan tailored to your dog's specific needs.

What are the treatment options for acid reflux in dogs?

The goal of acid reflux treatment is to alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage to the esophageal lining. Depending on the cause and severity of acid reflux in your dog, treatment may include dietary changes and medicinal therapy using antacids.

Additionally, to reduce the risk of further gastric reflux and ensure proper gastric emptying, prokinetic medications may be prescribed as part of the treatment.

Dietary changes

Feeding a low-fat diet is advised as this will promote gastric emptying and reduce acid production. Additionally, smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help to keep acid levels under control.

Medications

In cases of acid reflux in dogs, veterinarians may prescribe medications such as antacids, H2 blockers (histamine-2), proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and promotility drugs. The goals of medicinal therapy are to reduce stomach acid production and tighten the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle.

Common antacids that your veterinarian may prescribe include famotidine, omeprazole, and/or sucralfate. Metoclopramide or cisapride are medications that may be used to tighten the lower esophageal sphincter, therefore preventing acid reflux from the stomach.

Acid reflux in dogs is a complex condition that can cause discomfort and pain for your dog. It's essential to be aware of the common acid reflux symptoms, so you can identify it quickly and get proper treatment. Diagnosis typically involves physical examination, medical history, blood tests, X-rays, and esophagoscopy or barium swallow study. Treatment may include dietary changes as well as medications such as antacids, H2 blockers (histamine-2), proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and promotility drugs. With timely diagnosis and appropriate care from your veterinarian, acid reflux can be managed effectively in dogs - allowing them to live happy and healthy lives! If you have any questions or are concerned about acid reflux in your dog, please contact your veterinarian.