Dog Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that causes diarrhea, bloating, gas and abdominal cramping. Symptoms are intermittent and chronic. IBS is frustrating to diagnose due to its unpredictable nature. Fortunately, dogs with IBS are otherwise healthy and do not suffer from weight loss or complications associated with more serious bowel diseases.

Diagnosis

There is no definitive test for IBS. Your veterinarian will rule out other bowel conditions or diseases in order to make a diagnosis.

Stress

IBS seems to be stress related. Any dog can experience IBS, but those under significant stress---show dogs, working dogs and generally anxious dogs---experience the syndrome more often.

Food

Divide meals into two or three smaller feedings per day. Choose a highly digestible food with limited ingredients to reduce exposure to food sensitivities, a possible cause of gastrointestinal upset.

Supplements

Probiotic supplements contain a variety of "good bacteria" that occur in a healthy gut. These supplements stimulate the growth of microorganisms, improving the microbial balance for better intestinal function and health.

Exercise and Interaction

Regular, moderate exercise and interaction can reduce stress in anxious dogs. Boredom and isolation are significant sources of stress for pack animals like dogs.

Prescription Medications

Anti-anxiety medications can reduce stress in dogs. A gastrointestinal motility medication may be prescribed to regulate gastric response to stimuli.

References

• IrritableBowel.org: Dogs
• Pet Place: IBS
• Pet Education: Diarrhea