VETERINARY APPROVED
REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY
Dr. Nia Perkins
DVM (Veterinarian)
The following information is current and based on the latest veterinary research.
If you’ve ever been awakened in the middle of the night by unusual noises coming from your dog’s stomach, you know that your furry companion can also experience stomach problems. Whether it’s due to something they ate or a more serious issue, addressing your dog’s stomach problems promptly is essential.
In this article, we will discuss 16 signs that may indicate your dog has a stomach problem. Remember to seek advice from your veterinarian regarding any health concerns, even if you’re unsure of their severity.
Top 16 Signs Your Dog Might Have a Stomach Issue
1. Eating Grass
It is often believed that dogs eat grass when they are unwell and trying to induce vomiting. While this can be true, dogs may also eat grass for other reasons, making it not always a reliable indicator of a stomach issue. Research has shown that eating grass is not definitively linked to stomach problems in all dogs, although it can be a sign in some cases. Therefore, it is advisable to observe your dog for additional signs of a stomach issue beyond just eating grass.
2. Loss of Appetite
Similar to humans, dogs may avoid their food bowl when they have a stomach problem and feel nauseated. They might eat less than usual or completely stop eating. While decreased appetite can be a sign of a stomach issue, it can also indicate various other health conditions beyond just an upset stomach.
3. Excessive Licking
Dogs with stomach problems may exhibit excessive licking behavior by licking their lips or objects around them. Some dogs may even stick their tongues out and appear to lick the air. This behavior can be an attempt to alleviate nausea. However, excessive licking can also indicate different issues with your dog, and further observation of additional signs is recommended to confirm a stomach problem.
4. Changes in Water Drinking
Sudden changes in your dog’s water consumption may indicate a stomach issue. Your dog may drink less water, similar to their decreased appetite. On the other hand, some dogs may drink more water due to continuous vomiting. Excessive water intake can also signal other medical conditions like diabetes. It is important to take this sign seriously, as inadequate water intake can lead to dehydration even if it is just due to a stomach problem.
5. Gulping
Dogs experiencing reflux and nausea might gulp and swallow more frequently than usual. If you observe your dog exhibiting this behavior when they are not eating or drinking, consider the possibility of a stomach issue. Large, deep-chested dogs are at higher risk if they excessively gulp, as it can lead to swallowing excess air, a predisposing factor for a severe condition called bloat.
6. Fatigue
If your dog appears unusually tired and less enthusiastic about activities like playing or walks, they may be struggling with a stomach issue. Just like humans, dogs can feel exhausted when unwell and may need extra rest. However, fatigue can also be a sign of various conditions, some of which may be serious. Consulting your veterinarian is advisable before attributing your dog’s fatigue solely to stomach problems.
7. Depression
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Any sudden change in your dog’s behavior could indicate they are feeling unwell, possibly due to a stomach issue. A dog that is typically gentle may exhibit aggressive behavior, or a normally outgoing dog may withdraw from household activities. Apart from being a clear sign of a stomach problem, changes in behavior can have multiple underlying causes. Pain or discomfort, cognitive dysfunction in older dogs, or even brain conditions like tumors could be responsible for behavioral changes. If your dog’s behavior shifts without other stomach issue signs, especially if it worsens over time, consider consulting a veterinarian for a more in-depth evaluation.
Conclusion
Stomach issues are prevalent among dogs due to their inclination to ingest various objects. If you notice any of the aforementioned 16 signs or have concerns about your dog’s health, it is advisable to contact your veterinarian promptly. Acting proactively is always preferable to potential regret.
- See also: My Dog Keeps Licking His Lips & Swallowing: 9 Reasons Why (Vet Answer)
Featured Image Credit: Mikorad, Pixabay
