Did you know that digestive problems are among the most common health concerns in dogs? While they can sometimes stem from food intolerances or minor illnesses, they can also indicate more significant issues, like colitis or irritable bowel disease (IBD).

The more you understand these conditions and other digestive challenges, the better equipped you’ll be to support your pup’s health. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between colitis and IBD, explore common symptoms and discuss treatments to help your furry friend feel their best.

Colitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the colon, also known as the large intestine or large bowel. In dogs, the term “colitis” is often used to describe a variety of gastrointestinal conditions.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), on the other hand, occurs when white blood cells invade the small intestine, causing the lining to swell. IBD in dogs — not to be confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) — can affect appetite, impair digestion and disrupt the absorption of nutrients. Symptoms often include chronic diarrhea and vomiting.

It’s important to note that colitis is typically short-term, while IBD is a chronic condition. Unlike colitis, IBD requires ongoing management and isn’t just a variation of colitis.

Short answer: yes. Colitis and IBD are often mistaken for one another, largely because they share overlapping symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal discomfort. Both conditions can make your pup miserable, which adds to the confusion about what’s truly going on.

However, while the symptoms may look similar, the causes and treatments for colitis and IBD are quite different. Colitis is typically a short-term inflammation of the colon (though chronic colitis can occur), whereas IBD is a chronic condition that requires a more in-depth assessment of your dog’s overall health.

Let’s dive into some key signs of colitis or IBD in dogs. Common symptoms of both conditions include:

• Loose, runny stools

• Vomiting or nausea

• Diarrhea

• Weight loss

• Increased flatulence

• Blood or mucus (or both) in the stools

• Abdominal pain

• Straining to pass stools

• Lethargy and fatigue

Keep in mind that these symptoms can be caused by several conditions, some of which may be life-threatening if they aren’t resolved. So be sure to consult your veterinarian to discuss your dog’s specific symptoms and determine the best course of action.

Understanding the root cause of your dog’s symptoms is essential for effective treatment, as colitis and IBD can arise from different factors. Identifying these triggers is especially helpful when symptoms overlap. It’s also worth noting that certain small breeds, like terriers and boxers, are more prone to IBD.

Colitis is often caused by short-term irritants such as stress, ingesting something they shouldn’t, bacterial infections (like salmonella) or parasites (like giardia). In some cases, it may develop as a result of underlying IBD.

In contrast, the causes of IBD are more complex. It’s often associated with an overactive immune system response where the body mistakenly attacks its own intestinal lining. This reaction may stem from food allergies, bacterial imbalances or even genetics.

Now that we’ve covered the symptoms and potential causes of colitis and IBD, let’s explore how to treat a dog dealing with either condition.

When treating a dog with colitis or IBD, professional guidance is strongly recommended. Before trying home remedies or making dietary changes, consult your veterinarian to ensure your pup receives the right care.

A vet can identify the underlying cause of your dog’s symptoms through diagnostic tests like bloodwork, stool analysis, x-rays or even biopsies if necessary. These tools will also help your vet develop a customized treatment plan for your furry friend.

Medications commonly included in treatment plans for IBD or colitis include:

• Immunosuppressive medications like azathioprine, chlorambucil, cyclosporine or sulfasalazine

• Anti-inflammatory medications like metronidazole or tylosin

• Corticosteroids like prednisone, budesonide or prednisolone

Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor your dog’s progress and manage any side effects. If your dog has diarrhea or vomiting lasting more than 48 hours, severe weight loss, refuses to eat or shows signs of dehydration, visit an emergency vet immediately.

After consulting with a vet, an elimination diet may be necessary. This approach involves removing all the foods your dog usually eats and feeding just two simple ingredients, such as turkey and sweet potatoes, for a set period.

Elimination diets can be helpful if you suspect your dog has a food allergy or intolerance. Common food allergies or intolerances include beef, dairy, wheat, high-fat foods and high-fiber foods.

As your dog’s digestive symptoms improve, you can gradually add new ingredients. Be sure to monitor and record any changes in their symptoms, eating habits or bowel movements.

This process may also involve introducing high-quality, limited ingredient foods to help identify the root of the problem. Always consult your vet before starting an elimination diet and throughout the process to ensure your pup is receiving the necessary nutrients.

Probiotics and digestive enzymes can be a game changer for dogs dealing with colitis or IBD. These beneficial bacteria help restore balance to a dog’s gut flora, which is often disrupted during bouts of colitis or IBD.

Digestive enzymes, yogurt and probiotics like lactobacillus and acidophilus can improve digestion, alleviate symptoms and enhance the absorption of essential nutrients needed for optimal gut health.

When choosing supplements, pay attention to quality, as it can vary considerably between providers. A great option is The Honest Kitchen’s Daily Booster: Instant Goat’s Milk With Probiotics. This human grade supplement is made from highly digestible dehydrated goat’s milk and includes 1.25 billion active probiotics. Bonus: it’s suitable for dogs of all ages.

Hydration is critical when managing colitis or IBD in dogs, especially since diarrhea and vomiting can quickly lead to dehydration. Without sufficient fluids, your pup’s recovery may slow, and their overall health could decline. Proper hydration supports digestion, reduces inflammation and maintains essential bodily functions.

To encourage hydration, try adding water to your dog’s meals or offering low-sodium broths like The Honest Kitchen’s Bone Broth with Turmeric for a flavorful, nutrient-rich boost. Watch for signs of dehydration, such as dry gums, lethargy or sunken eyes. If you notice any of these symptoms, call your vet right away.

Keeping your pup hydrated is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to support their recovery.

To further support your dog’s colitis or IBD symptoms, you may want to explore long-term dietary changes — especially if you’ve identified problematic foods or ingredients. These digestive-friendly options are a good place to start.

Feeding your dog human grade food can be an effective way to manage colitis or IBD symptoms. Human grade dog food from The Honest Kitchen is made with clean, whole ingredients and contains no artificial fillers or preservatives, making it easier to digest than many commercial kibbles.

Unlike traditional pet foods, which don’t always meet strict safety standards, human grade options like The Honest Kitchen’s retain more nutrients and are better suited for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

In addition to choosing dog food with clean, nutrient-dense ingredients, it’s important to identify specific components that might aggravate your dog’s IBD or colitis symptoms. Many vets will recommend grain free recipes for dogs with digestive issues, as grains can increase sensitivity in the GI tract and contribute to inflammation.

The Honest Kitchen’s grain free and limited ingredient collections are great options. Fewer ingredients in your pup’s diet can make it easier to pinpoint triggers. Be sure to work with your vet to transition to these diets gradually and avoid further gastrointestinal upset.

The use of herbs — with veterinarian oversight — can be helpful for dogs with colitis or IBD. Herbs that may benefit colitis include pumpkin seed, calendula, marshmallow and slippery elm. These herbs have anti-inflammatory properties and help protect the delicate lining of the GI tract.

Plantain can also help soothe and reduce inflammation, while pectin — a soluble dietary fiber — regulates bowel movements and lowers the risk of diarrhea.

We recommend The Honest Kitchen’s Perfect Form supplement, which contains natural herbs to promote healthy digestion and support dogs prone to colitis or bouts of IBS.

Managing digestive issues like colitis and IBD can feel overwhelming, especially at the onset of a diagnosis. However, understanding the symptoms, potential causes and available treatments gives you the tools to support your pup’s health effectively. With the right care, dietary adjustments and professional guidance, you can help your dog feel better and thrive.

If you’re looking for dog food that supports your pup’s digestive health while providing complete, balanced nutrition, explore The Honest Kitchen’s collection of human grade, minimally processed meals. Designed with sensitive stomachs in mind, The Honest Kitchen’s recipes offer wholesome, clean ingredients that promote better digestion and overall well-being.

Support your dog’s recovery and well-being — shop The Honest Kitchen’s collection of  dog food  and  supplements  now!