Dogs can experience acid reflux, formally known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). This occurs when stomach contents, including highly acidic gastric juices and sometimes intestinal fluids, flow backward into the esophagus. The protective lining of the esophagus is not designed to withstand this acidity, leading to inflammation and irritation called esophagitis. Understanding the signs, causes, and management of this condition is key to providing relief.
Recognizing the Signs
The most noticeable sign of acid reflux is often regurgitation, which is distinct from vomiting. Regurgitation is a passive event where food or fluid is expelled without the active abdominal heaving and retching associated with vomiting. The material brought up is typically undigested food, bile, or a white, frothy liquid.
Dogs experiencing discomfort may exhibit excessive licking of the air, their lips, or surfaces like floors and furniture, which is a common sign of nausea. They may also show reluctance to eat or display pain while swallowing (dysphagia) due to the inflamed esophagus. Other subtle indicators of pain or irritation include restlessness, pacing, or adopting an unusual stance like arching the back. Chronic irritation of the throat can also lead to a persistent cough or a noticeable change in the sound of the dog’s bark.
What Causes Acid Reflux in Dogs
The primary mechanism behind acid reflux is the inappropriate relaxation or weakness of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES). The LES is a muscular valve at the junction of the esophagus and the stomach that acts as a one-way barrier, preventing stomach contents from moving upward. When this sphincter loses tone, the acidic contents can easily flow back into the esophagus.
One of the most common triggers for temporary reflux is general anesthesia, as many anesthetic drugs cause the LES to relax. This risk is heightened if the dog is not properly fasted before a procedure or if the patient is positioned with their head lower than their stomach during surgery. Dietary factors also play a significant role, as high-fat meals slow down the rate at which the stomach empties, increasing the opportunity for reflux. Underlying anatomical issues, such as a congenital hiatal hernia where part of the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity, can also weaken the LES.
Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of acid reflux often begins with a review of the dog’s symptoms and medical history, as the signs can mimic other gastrointestinal issues. A veterinarian may initially treat the condition based on symptoms, but the definitive diagnostic tool is an esophagoscopy. This procedure involves passing a small camera down the esophagus while the dog is under anesthesia to visually inspect the lining for inflammation, redness, or ulceration consistent with acid damage.
Medical treatment focuses on reducing the acidity of the stomach contents and protecting the damaged esophageal lining. Acid-reducing medications fall into two main categories: Histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2 blockers) like famotidine, and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole. PPIs are generally considered superior for sustained acid suppression in dogs and are often administered twice daily for optimal effect. To protect the irritated esophagus, a medication like sucralfate may be prescribed, which forms a protective coating over the damaged tissue. Prokinetic drugs may also be used to strengthen the LES and speed up the movement of food through the digestive tract.
Long-Term Management and Prevention
Long-term management of acid reflux relies on modifying the dog’s diet and feeding routine to reduce gastric pressure and acidity. Switching to a low-fat, high-protein diet is recommended because fat slows gastric emptying, which can exacerbate reflux. Protein, while stimulating some acid secretion, is necessary for healing and should be lean.
Instead of feeding one or two large meals, owners should divide the dog’s total daily food allowance into three to four smaller, more frequent meals. This strategy prevents the stomach from becoming overly full, which reduces pressure on the LES. It is also beneficial to avoid feeding the dog immediately before bedtime, allowing a few hours for digestion before the dog lies down, as a horizontal position can encourage reflux. Maintaining a healthy body weight is also important, as excess abdominal fat can increase internal pressure.