What Causes SIBO in Dogs?

Updated in April, 2024 | By Emma Olson
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Causes SIBO in Dogs

I know you are concerned about your friend and looking What Causes SIBO in Dogs?

Don’t worry we are here to tell you what causes SIBO in dogs.

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition characterized by an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine.

This excessive growth of bacteria can lead to a number of problems, including diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and malnutrition.

While SIBO can occur in any dog, certain breeds are predisposed to developing the condition. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what causes SIBO in dogs and what you can do to prevent it. ( Check my other article on naturally treatment of SIBO at home)

Several things can cause SIBO in dogs. The most common cause is a change in the normal balance of gut bacteria.

Must check: Is SIBO IN Dogs Contagious?

This can be due to several factors, including

  • Stress,
  • Changes in diet,
  • The use of antibiotics,
  • And certain medical conditions.

Other possible causes include damage to the lining of the small intestine and decreased motility (movement) of the intestine.

Breeds That Develop SIBO

Certain breeds of dogs are more likely to develop SIBO than others. Breeds that are predisposed to the condition include.

  • Yorkshire Terriers,
  • Miniature Schnauzers,
  • Cocker Spaniels,
  • Basset Hounds,
  • and Shih Tzus.

Other risk factors for developing SIBO include age (dogs over 7 years old are more likely to develop SIBO), concurrent medical conditions (such as diabetes or pancreatitis), and use of certain medications (such as corticosteroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

The most common symptom of SIBO is chronic or recurrent diarrhea. Other possible symptoms include vomiting, weight loss, dehydration, bloating, flatulence, and abdominal pain. If your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, it’s important to take them to see a veterinarian so that they can be properly diagnosed and treated.

How do dogs get SIBO?

SIBO is a result of an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine. This can happen when the normal balance of bacteria in the small intestine gets disrupted, for example, when something inhibits the flow of stomach acid into the small intestine. When this happens, bacteria from the large intestine can move back up into the small intestine and start to grow and multiply.

Dogs can get SIBO for a number of reasons, including eating a diet that is high in carbohydrates or sugars, eating food that is contaminated with bacteria, taking antibiotics or corticosteroids, having a weakened immune system, or being born with a structural defect in the intestines.

Can SIBO be cured in dogs?

Yes, SIBO can be cured in dogs. The most common treatment for SIBO is antibiotics. However, some dogs may have a recurrence of SIBO after antibiotics are discontinued. In these cases, the dog may require lifelong treatment with antibiotics to control the condition.

Some natural treatments may help treat SIBO in dogs. These include probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes. Some people also report success with peppermint oil or herbs such as ginger and turmeric. If you decide to use a natural treatment for your dog’s SIBO, it is important to work with your veterinarian to make sure that the treatment is appropriate and effective.

How do you prevent SIBO in dogs?

SIBO can be prevented in dogs by feeding a diet that is low in fermentable carbohydrates and by avoiding over-feeding. Additionally, probiotics may help to prevent SIBO in some dogs.

Can probiotics cause SIBO in dogs?

Yes, there is a very real risk that probiotics can cause SIBO in dogs. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeast that you add to your dog’s food or water. They are meant to help with digestion and gut health, but they can also cause problems if they get into the wrong place.

Conclusion:

SIBO is a condition that affects many dogs, especially certain breeds. The most common symptom of SIBO is chronic or recurrent diarrhea; other possible symptoms include vomiting, weight loss, dehydration, bloating, flatulence, and abdominal pain. If your dog is displaying any of these symptoms it’s important to take them to see a veterinarian so that they can be properly diagnosed and treated. With proper treatment, most dogs with SIBO make a full recovery.

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Emma Olson

As a graduate of Animal Nutrition, I am passionate about telling fellow dog lovers what they need to know about their dog food according to disease, age, and breeds. I was born and raised in Tampa, Florida, USA, and I enjoy writing blog posts about pet health.
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