IBS vs IBD in Dogs

May 30

Digestive struggles are one of the most common complaints in dogs today—loose stool, gurgling tummies, vomiting, food sensitivities… it’s overwhelming for pet parents, especially when these symptoms become chronic.

Two terms often tossed around are IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease). While they sound similar, they’re not the same—and how we support them should be different too. See your veterinarian for an official diagnosis. Then you and I can collaborate on a wellness strategy to support your dog.

Let’s break it down.

What Is IBD in Dogs?

Inflammatory Bowel Disease isn’t a single disease—it’s a syndrome characterized by chronic inflammation and damage to the gastrointestinal lining.

Over time, this inflammation can erode the protective mucosal barrier of the gut, leading to malabsorption, nutrient deficiencies, food intolerance, and what we often call “leaky gut.” The immune system begins to overreact to normal inputs—food, bacteria, or even stress.

IBD is more than an upset stomach. It's a chronic condition that, if left unaddressed, can lead to long-term degeneration of gut function and overall health.

Common Signs of IBD in Dogs:

Chronic or intermittent diarrhea (often with mucus or blood)
Frequent vomiting or regurgitation
Weight loss despite eating
Poor appetite or fussiness with food
Excessive gurgling or bloating
Anal gland issues or scooting
Skin issues (especially paired with GI symptoms)

Breeds at Higher Risk:

German Shepherds
French Bulldogs
Boxers
Basenjis
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers
English Bulldogs
Cocker Spaniels

Conventional Diagnosis May Include:

Bloodwork (to rule out EPI or pancreatitis)
Ultrasound
Fecal testing
Endoscopy with biopsy

Holistic Support Strategies for IBD

When your dog is dealing with a veterinary diagnosis of IBD —or you suspect chronic gut inflammation—your focus should be on soothing the gut, reducing inflammation, rebalancing the immune system, and supporting detoxification.

Here are proactive ways to do that:

Feed an anti-inflammatory, species-appropriate diet — fresh food without synthetics, fillers, or allergens. Often, gently cooked or raw diets work well, but it must be tailored to your dog’s current gut condition.
Eliminate known food intolerances— often chicken, beef, grains, legumes, dairy, and synthetic additives.
Support the gut lining — through food (like bone broth, pumpkin, or mucilaginous herbs), strategic supplements, or cell salts that restore mineral balance.
Use functional mushrooms — Reishi and Turkey Tail can help modulate inflammation and support immune balance.
Introduce spore-based probiotics and fermented foods — these are often better tolerated than traditional dairy-based probiotics.
Avoid repeated rounds of antibiotics or steroids — these often do more harm than good when used long term.
Use essential oils wisely — blends like DiGize or oils like Copaiba may help calm the gut and reduce discomfort. (Always dilute and ensure quality.)
Incorporate PEMF or red light therapy — to reduce inflammation systemically and improve detox capacity.
Test and monitor — Stool testing (AnimalBiome or Innovative Pet Labs), intolerance scans (Glacier Peak), and HTMA can guide targeted support.

What Is IBS in Dogs?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome in dogs is a functional disorder—meaning the gut may look normal under a microscope or scope, but the function of the digestive system is dysregulated.

Most cases are rooted in nervous system imbalance, emotional trauma, or biome disruption from poor diet, stress, or medications. IBS is more about how the gut behaves, not whether it’s physically damaged.

These dogs often live with intermittent symptoms that come and go—typically triggered by stress, travel, diet changes, or emotional shifts in the home.

Common Signs of IBS in Dogs:

Soft or mucousy stools (not usually bloody)
Diarrhea during stress (visitors, thunderstorms, travel)
Urgency to poop after eating or excitement
Gassiness or noisy belly
Anxiety or restlessness
Clear improvement with calming routines or natural remedies

Holistic Support Strategies for IBS

When we support dogs with IBS, we focus more on nervous system regulation, gut-brain healing, emotional health, and gentle biome repair.

Here’s what can help:

Feed a calming, consistent diet — moderate fat, easy-to-digest proteins, limited ingredients, and gentle herbs to soothe digestion.
Balance the gut biome — spore-based probiotics, low-dose fermented foods, and prebiotic-rich veggies can help.
Support the vagus nerve — massage, grounding (bare paws on the earth), structured routine, and energy work (like Reiki or Emotion Code).
Use calming essential oils — Lavender, Frankincense, or blends like Peace & Calming may reduce GI reactivity through the gut-brain axis.
Incorporate adaptogens — like ashwagandha or tulsi (as appropriate) to help stabilize stress hormones.
Consider homeopathy — Nux Vomica, Argentum Nitricum, or Gelsemium may be appropriate based on symptom patterns.
Rule out food sensitivities — even IBS dogs can have some triggers. A temporary elimination diet may offer insight.

IBD vs IBS in Dogs: A Side-by-Side Comparison

  
      Feature
      IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
      IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
    
      Root Cause
      Chronic inflammation & immune dysfunction
      Gut-brain axis dysfunction, stress response
    
      Gut Lining Damage
      Yes — often visible
      No — functionally abnormal, not structurally
    
      Typical Onset
      Gradual, progressive
      Sudden, triggered by events
    
      Common Symptoms
      Diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, low energy
      Intermittent loose stool, gassiness, urgency
    
      Diagnostic Tools
      Biopsy, bloodwork, ultrasound, stool tests
      Diagnosis of exclusion, stress correlation
    
      Breeds Commonly Affected
      GSDs, Bulldogs, Boxers, Wheatens
      Toy breeds, anxious dogs, sensitive dogs
    
      Best Support Focus
      Anti-inflammatory + immune balancing
      Nervous system calming + gentle gut support

Top 5 Things You Can Do Now to Support Either Condition

Switch to a fresh, species-appropriate diet with minimal ingredients
Eliminate common allergens and inflammatory triggers
Add fermented vegetables or a spore-based probiotic
Use essential oils and herbs that calm the gut and immune system
Reduce stress, routine disruptions, and emotional chaos in the home

I cover dosing suggestions on supplements, product options, and full protocols in the client-only guides for both IBD and IBS.

Want to go deeper with support for your dog through all life stages?

Join the member library for guides & resources.

Visit My Affiliate Links for curated quality products mentioned above!
https://welloiledk9.com/affiliate-links

Statements in this blog have not been evaluated by the FDA. Educational content only. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please do your own additional research, consult your vet as needed.

Dana Brigman