Acid Reflux In Dogs
Acid Reflux in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Natural Solutions
If your dog is frequently gulping, licking the air, or experiencing bouts of vomiting, acid reflux could be the culprit. While it’s often dismissed as a minor issue, chronic acid reflux can lead to inflammation, discomfort, and long-term damage to the esophagus. Many pet parents turn to over-the-counter (OTC) acid reducers, but these come with risks (I’ll link to my article on that). Fortunately, there are natural ways to address acid reflux in dogs by targeting the root cause rather than just masking the symptoms.
What Causes Acid Reflux in Dogs?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus, leading to irritation and discomfort. This can be caused by several factors, including:
Dietary Issues – Processed kibble, high-fat meals, or an imbalance in digestive enzymes can contribute to poor digestion and increased acid production.
Food Sensitivities or Allergies – Some dogs react poorly to certain proteins, grains, or artificial additives, leading to digestive distress.
Poor Gut Health – A lack of beneficial bacteria in the gut (dysbiosis) can lead to imbalanced digestion and reflux.
Overeating or Eating Too Fast – Inhaling food too quickly or eating large meals can put pressure on the digestive system, making reflux more likely.
Medications – Long-term use of NSAIDs, steroids, or OTC acid reducers can actually worsen gut health, leading to ongoing digestive problems.
Structural Issues – Some dogs (especially brachycephalic breeds) may have a hiatal hernia, which increases the risk of acid reflux.
Stress & Anxiety – Just like in humans, stress can negatively impact digestion, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux episodes.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux in Dogs
Recognizing the signs early can help prevent long-term damage to the esophagus. Symptoms may include:
Gulping or excessive swallowing
Licking the air or smacking lips
Burping or regurgitating food
Vomiting bile (yellow or white foam)
Signs of nausea, such as drooling or refusing food
Coughing or gagging after eating
Bad breath (often from stomach acid irritation)
Restlessness at night or frequent changes in sleeping position
Why OTC Acid Reducers Aren’t the Best Long-Term Solution
While OTC acid reducers like Pepcid (famotidine) and omeprazole are commonly recommended, they do not address the root cause and can lead to:
Nutrient Deficiencies – Stomach acid is necessary for absorbing essential nutrients like B12 and magnesium.
Increased Gut Imbalance – Reducing acid long-term can lead to bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and chronic digestive issues.
Rebound Acid Production – When these drugs are stopped suddenly, the stomach may overcompensate and produce even more acid, worsening reflux.
(I’ll link to my article here for a deeper dive into the problems with OTC acid reducers.)
Top 5 Things to Do if Your Dog Has Acid Reflux
Switch to a fresh, whole-food diet – Avoid kibble and feed smaller, more frequent meals.
Use gut-healing herbs – Slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice can help soothe irritation.
Support digestion with enzymes & probiotics – These improve food breakdown and gut health.
Try TCVM cooling foods & acupressure – Balance the body’s energy to reduce internal heat.
Avoid long-term OTC acid reducers – Instead, focus on addressing the underlying cause naturally.
Acid reflux doesn’t have to be a chronic issue for your dog. By focusing on gut health, balanced nutrition, and natural remedies, you can help your pup feel better without the risks of acid-reducing medications.
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