Various digestive problems are common in dogs. A simple and practical indicator of how successfully a dog’s feeding supports stomach function and overall wellbeing is the dog’s stool. It is worth paying attention to stool quality, for example when cleaning up after your dog. Digestive issues should always be taken seriously, as loose stool may indicate illness or an unsuitable diet, which in turn can cause discomfort and interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients. However, stomach problems related to diet or a sensitive digestive system can often be managed with appropriate nutrition.
Good-quality stool is typically fairly uniform in colour, somewhat dark, and moist on the surface—not loose, slimy, or excessively dry and hard. Normal stool should not have a particularly strong or offensive odour. Loose, foul-smelling, or mucus-covered stool most often points to an unsuitable diet. Of course, there may be other reasons as well: the dog may have eaten soil or dirt, or accidentally consumed something spoiled. The cause may also be an underlying illness, an exciting or stressful situation, the bitch’s heat cycle, or sometimes even heavy physical exertion. Some dogs react very easily to changes through their digestive system, just as some humans do. Prolonged digestive problems or very sudden diarrhoea always require a veterinary visit. After ruling out medical causes, loose stool or a sensitive stomach can often be supported through the right diet and carefully selected supplements that help soothe the digestive tract.
Loose Stool
Chronic loose stool is often linked to an unsuitable diet. The issue may involve, for example, an inappropriate protein source—some dogs tolerate poultry and fish better than red meat or legumes. High-quality fibre plays a key role in maintaining proper digestive function. For instance, fibre-rich milled chia and hemp provide beneficial fibres for digestion as well as important omega fatty acids that support skin and coat health.
“Milled chia in particular seems to suit many dogs with sensitive stomachs. When mixed with liquid, chia produces mucilage from its soluble fibres. This gel-like substance helps lubricate the intestines from within and can calm a sensitive stomach and digestive tract. In addition, the high fibre content of chia supports digestion in dogs,” explains Mirva Kettunen from Chia de Gracia.
Dietary changes should be introduced gradually and step by step, rather than all at once. During the transition, it may be helpful to include a digestive-support supplement designed to promote beneficial gut bacteria, such as Tummy Saver.
“This product is also well suited for dogs that tend to dig in the ground and develop stomach upset as a result. The product contains chia, whose mucilage helps carry excess soil matter out of the intestines. It also includes ingredients that help balance the gut’s bacterial and microbial environment.”
Heartburn
One fairly common digestive issue in dogs is heartburn. Heartburn is not always easy to recognise, but typical signs may include panting, restlessness, burping, stomach gurgling, and licking of various surfaces. In dogs suffering from heartburn, it is often advisable to remove poorly digestible bones from the diet and divide meals into several smaller portions. Many dogs prone to heartburn have found relief with the Protect That Tummy product.
“This product forms a water-resistant protective coating in the stomach. At the same time, its ingredients help reduce excess acidity and soothe irritated mucous membranes. The product is suitable not only for heartburn but also for dogs with sensitive stomachs and for use alongside medication courses to help protect the stomach.”
A diet high in oils and fats may predispose some dogs to heartburn. For certain dogs, a raw diet based primarily on boneless meat may be the most suitable option, and meat can also be partly replaced with fish. Nevertheless, to maintain proper digestive function and consistent stool quality, it is important that the dog receives sufficient fibre on a daily basis.
Dietary transitions may initially increase gas formation, but persistent flatulence is not normal. A new food may temporarily increase gas production, yet this usually subsides once the digestive system adapts and the gut microbiota adjusts to the new diet. Occasional gas discomfort may sometimes be relieved by offering a small amount of anise seeds, which are known for their gas-reducing properties. Turmeric may also help some dogs. In certain cases, prolonged digestive upset may require completely eliminating unsuitable ingredients from the dog’s diet. When implementing such an elimination diet, it is advisable to consult a professional specialising in canine nutrition.
