Symptoms and Treatments of SIBO in Dogs: A Complete Guide

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 28, 2024

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Under normal circumstances, a dog's intestines—both large and small—are home to a vast population of bacteria, especially in the large intestine. These bacteria help with digestion as long as they stay balanced and in proper numbers. However, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when harmful bacteria multiply excessively in the small intestine. This happens when, for various reasons, undigested food lingers too long in the small intestine, giving bacteria more time to grow and thrive. SIBO is most common in dogs with underlying medical conditions like neurological problems, gastrointestinal obstructions, parasites, pancreatitis, and other issues. Let's dive in and explore the common symptoms and treatments for dogs suffering from SIBO.

Diarrhea

Chronic diarrhea is one of the most frequent signs of SIBO in dogs. For dogs without pre-existing medical conditions, persistent or intermittent diarrhea may signal idiopathic SIBO ("idiopathic" simply means that the original underlying cause isn't fully understood). Small-bowel diarrhea is the most common type accompanying SIBO, characterized by limited straining and large volumes. Therefore, if your dog is experiencing ongoing diarrhea, it's important to consider SIBO as a possible cause.

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Gas

Gastrointestinal issues is the most common issue among milk thistle users. So you have to reduce fatty, dairy, and fried foods. Reducing these foods will help to decrease the gastrointestinal issues. You have to decrease high-fiber foods too. You can take over-the-counter medicines for this problem.

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Weight Loss

If your dog is suffering from chronic diarrhea and losing weight despite having a normal or even increased appetite, SIBO could be the reason. SIBO is a type of malabsorption syndrome, meaning your dog cannot properly absorb nutrients from food due to interference with the digestive process. Consequently, weight loss occurs, which can be especially dangerous for small or young dogs. Therefore, unexplained weight loss is a significant symptom to watch for.

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Stunted Growth

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Excessive Hunger

A dog with SIBO may appear ravenous even if she is eating the appropriate amount for her age and size. Since her body isn't absorbing nutrients as it should, it sends signals to the brain, instructing her to eat more food in an attempt to get the necessary nutrients. So, if your dog is always hungry despite regular feeding, SIBO might be a factor.

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Pica

Pica is a condition where a person or animal develops an appetite for non-food items. In dogs, this may manifest as eating stool or other indigestible objects, which can cause damage to the intestines. One theory is that mineral deficiencies due to poor nutrient absorption lead to pica. Therefore, a dog with SIBO might start eating unusual things to compensate for the nutrients they lack.

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Antibiotic Treatment

Idiopathic SIBO is usually treated with oral antibiotics. In fact, it's often called antibiotic-responsive SIBO because it responds well to these medications. Secondary SIBO, caused by another medical condition, may require a different approach. In such cases, addressing the underlying cause is essential for proper treatment. So, working closely with your veterinarian is crucial to determine the best course of action.

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Probiotics

A dog receiving antibiotics may also benefit from probiotics to replenish the good bacteria being eliminated. Digestion and nutrient absorption rely on beneficial bacteria to break down food. The digestive system requires a delicate balance of bacteria to function properly. Therefore, probiotics can help restore this balance and improve your dog's digestive health.

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Dietary Changes

Your veterinarian might suggest adjusting your dog's diet to accommodate a sensitive gut. Dairy products are not recommended for dogs with SIBO because intestinal damage affects the lactase needed to break down dairy. Your dog may also require a low-fiber diet temporarily to limit the "fuel" that bad bacteria need to grow in the small intestine. So, dietary modifications play a key role in managing SIBO.

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Nutritional Supplements

If your dog has SIBO, she's probably lacking in essential nutrients. Nutritional supplements can help get her back on track so she can continue to develop and grow. Ask your veterinarian which supplements they recommend to fill in your dog's nutritional gaps. After all, providing the right nutrients is critical for your dog's recovery.

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