Expert Tips: 5 Natural Solutions for Dog Colitis You May Not Know About

Colitis is a common health issue in dogs, but don’t underestimate its impact—if left untreated, it can significantly affect your pet’s well-being. This article covers everything you need to know, including causes, clinical signs, natural solutions, and key insights for effective management.

What Exactly is Dog Colitis?

Canine colitis is inflammation of the  colon or large intestine, which aids digestion, fluid balance, and microorganism support. It often causes diarrhea or loose stools with fresh blood and mucus. In some cases, colitis leads to painful bowel movements or difficulty passing stools.

What Are the Different Types of Canine Colitis?

Contrary to popular belief, colitis in dogs is not a “one-size-fits-all” condition. It comes in two forms: acute colitis and chronic colitis. Let’s explore each in detail.

Acute colitis in dogs

This type of canine colitis is characterized by a sudden onset, typically lasting a few days. It usually resolves by itself, especially if the underlying cause is mild. However, dietary indiscretion, stress, or infections can trigger it, and supportive care—such as a bland diet and hydration—can help speed up recovery.

Chronic colitis in dogs

This type of colitis lasts for weeks to months, with recurring symptoms. It can also be classified into three types: lymphocytic-plasmacytic, eosinophilic, and granulomatous. Each type is associated with underlying immune responses and may require specialized treatment. 

Which Dog Breeds Are More Prone to Colitis?

Did you know Boxers and French Bulldogs are especially vulnerable to granulomatous colitis? Other breeds, including German Shepherds, Border Collies, Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, and Labrador Retrievers, are also at higher risk due to genetic predisposition.

What Causes Dog Colitis?

Several factors can trigger colitis in dogs, including:

• Stress
• Dietary issues (e.g., sudden diet changes, consuming garbage)
• Parasites (e.g., whipworms, Giardia)
• Infections (bacterial or fungal)
• Food hypersensitivity
• Ingestion of foreign materials
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
• Cancer
• Dysbiosis (leaky gut syndrome)

Are There Natural Solutions for Colitis in Dogs?

Yes, there are natural solutions you can use for dog colitis. However, these can only be used for mild cases or as supportive care with conventional treatments. These include:

#1. Giving your dog a bland diet

A bland diet with simple proteins and carbohydrates can help. Suitable options include boiled chicken (skinless and unseasoned), or fully cooked eggs, paired with white or brown rice, or white or sweet potatoes.

#2. Supplementing with fiber

Incorporating fiber into your dog's diet can help regulate diarrhea by firming stools and supporting healthy digestion. Excellent fiber sources include plain canned pumpkin, psyllium husk, or a prescription fiber diet recommended by your veterinarian. 

Moreover, both freshly cooked and canned pumpkin can benefit dogs with colitis. Additionally, nutrient-rich foods like broccoli, carrots, shiitake mushrooms, and blueberries offer valuable health benefits, supporting overall well-being.

#3. Including probiotics in your dog’s nutrition

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health by colonizing the gastrointestinal tract and maintaining a balanced microbiome, which can help reduce diarrhea. Regular use may also enhance nutrient absorption and support overall digestive well-being.

#4. Prebiotics are also a helpful addition

Prebiotics serve as nourishment for beneficial bacteria in the colon, helping to sustain a healthy gut microbiome. Fructooligosaccharides (FOS), a common type of prebiotic, may help reduce intestinal inflammation and support digestive health. When combined with probiotics, prebiotics can enhance their effectiveness in promoting overall gut balance.

#5. Consider using a premium natural product

TUMMYPET contains carefully selected ingredients to support digestive health and help manage conditions like Crohn’s disease, colitis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). With its powerful antioxidant properties, it aids in reducing colon inflammation, easing digestive discomfort, and promoting a balanced stomach environment.

While the abovementioned methods can be beneficial, they may not be enough for all cases of colitis—particularly chronic colitis, which may require prescription medications or specialized dietary management.

What are the Clinical Signs of Colitis in Dogs?

Below are the common clinical signs of dog colitis. Their severity may also depend on the type of colitis your pet is experiencing, namely acute or chronic:

• Constipation
• Urgency to defecate
• Lethargy
• Weight loss (rare)
• Straining or pain during defecation
• Vomiting (less common)
• Frequent bowel movements
• Loss of appetite or unusual eating habits
• Increased flatulence
• Blood or mucus in stool
• Diarrhea (often with mucus and bright red blood)
• Soft or liquid stool

How is Canine Colitis Typically Treated?

Conventional treatment of canine colitis depends on its type. The following are the most common treatment plans given by a vet:

Acute colitis

As mentioned, acute colitis in dogs often resolves on its own. However, a bland diet, probiotics, diarrhea medications (over-the-counter or prescription), and fluid therapy for dehydration can provide supportive care and aid in recovery.

Chronic colitis

In addition to addressing underlying causes identified through testing, dietary modifications play a key role in managing chronic colitis. This may involve introducing novel protein or hydrolyzed protein diets alongside medications. 

Common treatments include antibiotics (e.g., metronidazole, tylosin, sulfasalazine), anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., glucocorticoids or steroids), antispasmodic agents for cramping, and anxiety medications for stress-related colitis.

What Are Important Considerations When Treating Colitis in Dogs?

Human medications should never be given to dogs, as they can be dangerous. Always consult a veterinarian or a qualified pet homeopath to determine the safest and most effective treatment. Early detection also plays a key role in improving the chances of successfully managing colitis in dogs.

How Does a Vet Diagnose Colitis in Canines?

To diagnose colitis in dogs, a veterinarian will review their medical history, asking about stool quality, defecation urgency, diet, and other key factors. A physical exam, including a rectal evaluation, will also be performed.

In some cases, the veterinarian may perform a fecal analysis to check for parasites. Additional tests, such as blood work, urinalysis, X-rays, ultrasound, or a colonoscopy with biopsies, are commonly used to diagnose chronic colitis in dogs.

How Is Dog Colitis Managed During Recovery?

In most cases, dogs recover from colitis within a few days. However, dogs with chronic colitis require ongoing management, which typically includes dietary modifications, fiber supplementation, and medications such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and stress-reduction treatments.

How Do You Prevent Colitis in Dogs?

Incorporating proactive strategies into your dog’s care routine can help prevent colitis. Consider the following:

• Managing stress and anxiety effectively
• Preventing access to inappropriate foods or garbage
• Maintaining a regular deworming schedule
• Introducing dietary changes gradually
• Consulting your veterinarian or a qualified pet homeopathy expert regularly
• Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for detecting any changes in your pet's health early

When Should You Seek Veterinary Care for Dog Colitis?

Contact your veterinarian if your dog's colitis clinical signs persist for more than 2–3 days or worsen. Seek immediate veterinary care if you notice blood or mucus in the stool, signs of pain or straining, or an increased urgency to defecate.

If you're using home remedies to manage canine colitis, consult a veterinarian if clinical signs persist or worsen, as an underlying condition may be present.

How Much Does It Cost to Conventionally Treat Dog Colitis?

The cost of treating canine colitis depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Chronic colitis tends to be more expensive, as it often requires diagnostic tests such as fecal analysis, blood work, ultrasound, or colonoscopy, along with exams, fluid therapy, and medications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do you treat colitis in dogs?

Treatment for colitis in dogs depends on the cause and may include dietary changes, probiotics, fiber supplements, medications (antibiotics, anti-inflammatories), stress management, and hydration support. Consult your veterinarian or pet homeopathy specialist for proper diagnosis and care.

What foods cause colitis in dogs?

Foods that can cause colitis in dogs include dairy, fatty or spicy foods, table scraps, low-quality dog food, and allergens like beef, chicken, or grains. Sudden diet changes and spoiled food can also trigger colitis.

What does colitis poop look like?

Colitis poop in dogs is often soft, watery, or mucus-covered, sometimes containing bright red blood. Dogs may strain while defecating and have increased urgency, producing frequent, small amounts of loose stool.

Can worms cause colitis in dogs?

Yes, worms like whipworms and parasites like Giardia can cause colitis in dogs. These parasites irritate the colon, leading to diarrhea, mucus in stool, and inflammation. Regular deworming helps prevent parasite-related colitis.

Do probiotics help colitis in dogs?

Yes, probiotics can help manage colitis in dogs by restoring gut balance, reducing inflammation, and supporting digestion. They promote healthy bacteria growth, which may alleviate diarrhea and improve gastrointestinal health.

Is colitis curable?

Acute colitis in dogs is often curable with dietary changes and medication. However, chronic colitis requires long-term management through diet, probiotics, and medication to control symptoms and improve your dog's quality of life.

What triggers colitis?

Colitis in dogs can be triggered by stress, food allergies, infections, parasites, dietary indiscretion, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or antibiotics. Sudden diet changes and consuming spoiled or fatty foods can also contribute to colitis.

Is colitis contagious in dogs?

Colitis isn’t contagious, but infectious causes like bacteria, viruses, or parasites (e.g., Giardia) can spread between dogs. Proper hygiene, regular deworming, and veterinary care help prevent the transmission of infectious colitis.

What is the best treatment for colitis?

The best treatment for colitis in dogs depends on the cause and may include dietary changes, probiotics, fiber supplements, medications (antibiotics, anti-inflammatories), stress management, and hydration support. Consult your veterinarian or pet homeopathy specialist for guidance.

What antibiotic is good for colitis?

Metronidazole, tylosin, and sulfasalazine are effective antibiotics for treating colitis in dogs. They help control infections and reduce inflammation. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best treatment and proper dosage for your dog.

Can colitis go away on its own?

Mild cases of acute colitis in dogs may resolve on their own, especially if triggered by stress or dietary indiscretion. However, persistent or chronic colitis requires veterinary care, dietary changes, and possible medication.

What is the best natural treatment for colitis?

The best natural treatments for colitis in dogs include a bland diet, probiotics, fiber supplements (pumpkin, psyllium, broccoli, carrots, and blueberries), stress management, and herbal supplements. Always consult your veterinarian or pet homeopathy specialist before starting natural treatments for colitis.

Can colitis be treated without surgery?

Yes, colitis in dogs is typically treated without surgery using dietary changes, probiotics, fiber supplements, medications (antibiotics, anti-inflammatories), and stress management. Surgery is only necessary in severe cases with complications.

How do you calm inflammation of colitis?

To calm colitis inflammation in dogs, use a bland diet, probiotics, fiber supplements, and anti-inflammatory medications. Managing stress and identifying food triggers can also help reduce flare-ups. Consult your veterinarian or qualified pet homeopath for proper treatment.

What supplements are good for intestinal inflammation?

Supplements for intestinal inflammation in dogs include probiotics, digestive enzymes, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber (psyllium, pumpkin), L-glutamine, and turmeric. These support gut health, reduce inflammation, and aid digestion. Consult your veterinarian or pet homeopathy specialist for recommendations.

The Bottom Line

Colitis in dogs is a common but manageable condition that requires proper diagnosis and care. With the right diet, supplements, and guidance from a veterinarian or pet homeopath, most dogs can live comfortable, healthy lives. Early detection and proactive management are essential for controlling symptoms and supporting your dog's well-being.

About the author

Dr. Simran Mudaliar, BVSc

Dr. Simran Mudaliar BVSc is a New Zealand-based veterinarian specializing in holistic medicine and preventative care. She is passionate about educating pet owners on natural and comprehensive pet health.

Dr. Mudaliar integrates conventional veterinary medicine and surgery with complementary and alternative therapies to maintain long-term optimal health for her patients. She addresses a wide range of issues, from basic veterinary care to chronic conditions.

In addition to her clinical work, she mentors new graduate veterinarians and consults in holistic veterinary medicine and nutrition.

Dr. Mudaliar began her education in Zoology at Guelph University, Ontario, Canada, and completed her degree in Veterinary Science at Massey University, New Zealand.

In her spare time, she enjoys hiking with her husband, baby, and dog named Marley.

Read the complete profile of Dr. Simran Mudaliar, BVSc (Veterinarian) here.