Best Dog Food for Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is not only a condition that affects humans, but also dogs. It can be uncomfortable and painful for your pooch. One way to alleviate the symptoms of acid reflux in dogs is to feed them the right food. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, treatment, and the best dog food for acid reflux.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux in Dogs

Acid reflux in dogs can cause various symptoms, such as:

• Regurgitation

• Vomiting

• Coughing

• Gagging

• Struggling to swallow

• Lost interest in food

• Bad breath

• Excessive salivation

• Hoarse bark

If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it is essential to speak with your vet to determine the root cause and the best course of action.

What Causes Acid Reflux in Dogs?

Acid reflux in dogs can have several underlying causes, such as:

• Weak or underdeveloped oesophageal muscles

• Hiatal hernias

Other factors that can contribute to acid reflux in dogs include obesity, a poor diet, eating too quickly, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and hypothyroidism.

Is Acid Reflux in Dogs Serious?

Acid reflux in dogs can be incredibly uncomfortable for them, but for the most part, it is not a life-threatening condition. 

However, if left untreated, acid reflux can lead to complications such as dehydration, oesophageal scarring, and aspiration pneumonia. Therefore, it is essential to take appropriate measures to manage and treat acid reflux in dogs.

How to Treat Acid Reflux in Dogs

The first step in treating acid reflux in dogs is to identify and eliminate the underlying cause, if possible.

This may involve making changes to your dog's diet or lifestyle. In mild cases, feeding dogs smaller meals, monitoring their food consumption, and keeping them upright for at least 30 minutes after meals can help to alleviate symptoms. Additionally, you can help your dog lose weight if they are overweight or obese.

In more severe cases, medication may be necessary to reduce acid production or strengthen the muscles that control the sphincter between the oesophagus and the stomach.

Can I Give My Dog Antacid?

No, dogs should not be given antacids without first consulting with a vet. Antacids sold in supermarkets or pharmacies, are specially formulated for human consumption only.

While antacids can help reduce the symptoms of acid reflux in humans, they can be harmful to dogs if given improperly. Some antacids contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which can be toxic to dogs. Additionally, antacids can interfere with the absorption of certain medications and nutrients.

Does Banana Help Dogs with Acid Reflux?

Bananas are known for their ability to soothe upset stomachs in humans, but they can also be beneficial for dogs with acid reflux. 

Bananas are high in fibre, which can promote healthy digestion, and they are also low in protein, which can help reduce acid production. However, it is essential to feed bananas to your dog in moderation, as they are also high in sugar.

What to Feed a Dog with a Acid Reflux

Feeding your dog a balanced and nutritious diet can help manage acid reflux. However, choosing the right food for dogs with acid reflux can be overwhelming due to the plethora of options available. As a rule of thumb, high fibre diets and low-fat diets are preferred, as they help move food through the digestive system more efficiently while reducing acid secretion. 

Why Butternut Box is Perfect for Dogs with Acid Reflux

Butternut Box fresh dog food has the perfect composition for dogs with acid reflux. Our meals have a high moisture content that can help to reduce stomach acidity, and we only use high-quality ingredients that are easy to digest. Happy tummies all round.

Our food is crafted with fresh, human-quality ingredients and meals are customised to meet the specific needs of your dog, based on things like their breed, age and activity level.