Skip to main content

How to treat enteritis in dogs

From stomach viruses to food poisoning, we’re all uncomfortably familiar with gastrointestinal upset. But what happens when your dog experiences bouts of vomiting and diarrhea? While your pooch might simply have eaten something that doesn’t agree with him, it’s also possible that your dog could be suffering from something more serious than a minor case of tummy troubles. Your dog could have enteritis, a potentially life-threatening illness. We’re here to tell you everything you need to know about enteritis in dogs – from its potential causes to what you can do to help your pup recover from his illness. 

A veterinarian in blue scrubs listens to an old German Shepherd with his stethoscope.

What is enteritis?

According to Pet Health Network, enteritis is “an inflammation of the small intestine and is caused by a wide range of potential problems. Parasites, bacteria, viruses, or allergies can all inflame the small intestines of your dog, causing diarrhea. An obstruction in the digestive tract can also trigger enteritis…” Although they sound very similar, enteritis and gastroenteritis are not the same. Enteritis only involves the small intestine, while gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and the intestine. Diarrhea is the primary symptom of enteritis, though your dog may also experience one or more of the following:

  • lethargy
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • weight loss
  • dehydration
  • anemia
  • bloody stool
  • tarry stool
  • abdominal pain
  • restlessness

The sooner your dog receives treatment for enteritis, the better his prognosis. If your pup’s enteritis is the result of an intestinal blockage caused by narrowing of the intestine or ingestion of a foreign object, your dog may require immediate surgery to resolve the obstruction. Because dogs suffering from enteritis easily become dehydrated, taking your pooch to the vet as quickly as possible is vitally important. Your vet will be able to treat dehydration – and replenish essential electrolytes – with IV fluids. If nausea and vomiting are present, an antiemetic may be administered to alleviate the symptoms. 

A veterinarian and veterinary nurse perform an ultrasound on a Pomeranian.

Types of enteritis

Different types of enteritis cause different symptoms and require different treatments. Let’s take a look at the various forms of enteritis. 

Acute enteritis

Often caused by ingestion of toxins, bacteria like E. coli, and parvovirus, acute enteritis requires immediate treatment. Dogs typically exhibit symptoms of lethargy, fever, explosive diarrhea, and vomiting. If possible, collect stool and vomit samples before taking your dog to the vet, as this can help them determine the cause of enteritis and devise an appropriate treatment plan.

Eosinophilic enteritis

Although rare, some dogs develop an unusual form of inflammatory disease known as eosinophilic enteritis. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell released by the immune system to combat infections. In cases of parasitic infections or food allergies, your dog’s blood work will show a drastic increase in eosinophils. Anti-inflammatory drugs like corticosteroids, as well as a hypoallergenic diet, may be recommended to treat eosinophilic enteritis. 

Lymphocytic plasmocytic enteritis

The most common canine form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), lymphocytic plasmocytic enteritis, is frequently caused by food allergies or Giardia, a parasitic infection caused by the Giardia duodenalis – also called G. intestinalis or G. lambila – parasite. Dewormers, IV fluids, and medicated shampoo to treat any lingering parasites left behind by loose stool is the most common treatment protocol for Giardia. 

How to treat enteritis

In some cases, enteritis might come on suddenly and resolve itself just as suddenly. However, if your dog suffers from diarrhea or vomiting for longer than 48 hours, it’s time to go to the vet. You should also take your dog to the vet immediately if he seems disoriented, lethargic, or passes large amounts of blood in his stool. If possible, bring a stool or vomit sample to the vet with you. Never give your dog human medications like Pepto Bismol or Imodium without consulting your veterinarian first, as they can mask your dog’s symptoms, preventing the vet from properly diagnosing his condition. 

Your vet will also perform a physical exam and diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your dog’s symptoms. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, while parasitic infections require deworming treatments. In many cases, supportive care, such as antiemetics, anti-diarrheal drugs, antacids, and IV fluids will be administered to help alleviate your dog’s symptoms and balance his electrolytes. Your dog may be sent home on a bland diet and oral medications, or he may require a longer stay for continued treatment. 

A veterinarian administers an injection to a beige dog.

Preventing enteritis

As the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” While you may not be able to prevent every cause of enteritis, ensuring your dog’s vaccinations are current, keeping all human foods and trash out of your dog’s reach, and using monthly flea and heartworm prevention medications all drastically reduce your dog’s risk of contracting enteritis. 

Editors' Recommendations

Mary Johnson
Contributor
Mary Johnson is a writer and photographer from New Orleans, Louisiana. Her work has been published in PawTracks and…
Ditching the pure breeds? Here’s how to find the right mutt for your family
Here's why a mixed-breed dog might suit you perfectly
A Chihuahua mix looks at the camera

We talk a lot about the official breeds around here, including the recently crowned most-popular dog, the Frenchie. But that ignores a huge subset of the pup-ulation: the mutts. You've probably met (and loved) all kinds of mutt dogs in your life. In fact, they make up a little over half of the dogs in the U.S., so you likely see more of them in your day-to-day life. Whether they're designer or pound pups, you might discover the perfect fit for your family in a mixed breed.

What is a mutt dog?
A mutt is any dog that is not an official pure breed, meaning one that has registered papers with two parents of the same breed. In the U.S., we have the American Kennel Club that determines which dogs fall under official breed guidelines and can ultimately compete or go on to make official baby dogs.

Read more
4 reasons why your dog might need a diaper (and which kind you should get)
When considering dog diapers, you need to think first about their purpose
Dog gets a green reusable diaper

Most dog owners luckily never need to reach for the diaper bag — we potty train our puppies and often enjoy the results for their whole lives. However, there are a few reasons why you might need to invest in dog diapers. Some of these are passing conditions, but as your pet ages, you may find that dog diapers become a part of your routine. It sounds a bit unpleasant, but with a little help, you can tackle it.
Why might my pet need them?
While most dogs will hopefully never have to wear any, they could wind up in doggie depends, temporarily or for life. Some pet parents use diapers when they know they won't be able to let their animal out to potty -- on a long plane ride for example. That's a good time for a one-off. Here are a few reasons you might need to stock your drawers with dog diapers.
They've gotten older
As pets age, sometimes incontinence sets in (and it could happen to you, too). This comes from the muscles of the bladder getting weaker and not performing as well, meaning a little bit of pee leaks through. It's much more common in female dogs, but can happen to any pooch.
She's in heat
Not totally unlike when a human has monthly bleeding, you might spot a bit of bloody discharge from a female dog in heat (fortunately, it doesn't happen as often, only a couple times per year). She also may urinate more frequently or even scent mark during this time.
He needs to be fixed
Before neutering, male dogs often mark, sometimes almost constantly, particularly if they can smell a female dog in heat nearby. If you're choosing not to neuter, you'll have to use a belly band a lot, though sometimes dogs can be trained out of this behavior with time and dedication.
They have a health condition
If your animal suddenly starts losing control of their wee, it's likely something simple, such as a urinary tract infection. Some long-term conditions like Cushing's disease, diabetes, and kidney problems could also be the issue. Work with your pet care team to ensure that a diaper won't interfere with topical medication or spread bacteria.

What kind of diaper should I get?
There are a few different kinds out there, depending on exactly what issue you're working on with your pet. Many male dogs, especially if they are really just scent marking, will require a . Female dogs in heat likely require a , but don't worry, there's a little hole for the tail. Do a bit of research including buying one kind and seeing if it works. Try to be as sustainable as possible and purchase cloth options that can go straight into the wash when possible.

Read more
Looking for a fluffy and affectionate pup? Give the American Eskimo dog a try
Considering a spitz? Take a look at the American Eskimo dog
American Eskimo dog smiling at the camera

At first glance, you might confuse an American Eskimo dog with a shih tzu or even a Pomeranian. Or you might mix them up with the Canadian Eskimo dog, a 4,000-year-old animal that's native to America and was bred by the Inuit to pull sleds. But the American Eskimo dog (or Eskie) is a totally separate breed that's both beautiful and family-friendly. While no dog is right for everyone, you should consider this beastie if you want a unique and lovable pup. They might be exactly what your home needs to become complete.
Where does the American Eskimo dog come from?
Don't be fooled by the name, this pup came about in the 1800s and was bred by German immigrants as a farm dog. That means it's one of many spitz dogs, which also includes the malamute, Icelandic sheepdog, and Samoyed. The name was changed because of anti-German sentiments around World War I. Interestingly, this was a very popular show dog, and many performed in the circus and on stage! If you do wind up adopting an Eskie, you could get a regular old diva.
What is this breed like?
These fluffy friends can stay as small as 6 pounds in the toy size or up to 35 pounds, which can be standard, but they all have huge personalities regardless of stature. Because the American Eskimo dog was a working breed, they need a lot more exercise than you'd think just by looking. But they're highly trainable, loving toward people, and very energetic, so you should have no problem taking them on walks and to outdoor gatherings. If your routine already includes hikes or even strolls, the American Eskimo dog might be your perfect companion.

Who should get an Eskie?
This is a family dog through and through. Eskies require a lot of interaction and love — they sometimes misbehave if not given enough attention, which could include chewing up your favorite furniture or barking incessantly at seemingly nothing. That means you want to think carefully before committing to them, as you would with any pup.

Read more