Chronic Diseases & Special Conditions
IBD in Dogs: Dietary Management of Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Recurring diarrhoea, vomiting, and weight loss could indicate IBD. We outline the hydrolysed and novel protein diet protocols.
When to see a vet IMMEDIATELY
- •Blood in stool or vomit
- •Lethargy, not drinking, or not eating for 24+ hours
- •Repeated vomiting, especially if water won't stay down
- •Swollen or painful abdomen, whimpering
- •Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days, or worsening symptoms
This article is informational and does not replace veterinary examination.
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IBD in Dogs: Dietary Management of Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease
In IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), the intestinal lining is persistently inflamed. Unlike a single episode of diarrhoea, this involves weeks or months of recurring symptoms, and diet is not a supplement but the cornerstone of treatment.
When to suspect IBD?
- Recurring diarrhoea or vomiting lasting longer than 3 weeks
- Weight loss despite a good appetite
- Mucus-like, sometimes bloody stools
- Rumbling stomach, flatulence, post-meal discomfort
- Symptoms come and go; a "bland diet" only helps temporarily
Diagnosis is by exclusion: after ruling out parasites, EPI, pancreatitis, food allergies, and tumours, it can finally be confirmed by intestinal biopsy. This is a veterinary task.
Two approaches to dietary management
1. Hydrolysed protein diet
Proteins are broken down into such small pieces that the immune system does not recognise them. This is the most researched IBD diet, and many dogs achieve remission solely on this.
2. Novel protein diet
A single protein source never consumed before: duck, venison, rabbit, fish. It is more readily available but only works if the protein is truly new: review the ingredients of previous foods.
The protocol in both cases:
- Minimum 6–8 weeks, strictly a single diet
- Nothing else: no treats, no flavoured tablets, no dental chews, no scraps from the table
- 3–4 smaller meals a day instead of 2
- Keep a diary: stool consistency, vomiting, weight weekly
If there is no improvement after 6–8 weeks, dietary change is insufficient, and anti-inflammatory treatment will follow.
Low fat, high digestibility
- Fat: 8–12% on a dry matter basis. Fat is poorly absorbed in an inflamed intestine and worsens diarrhoea.
- Easily digestible carbohydrates: rice, potato, pumpkin
- Soluble fibre in small amounts (psyllium, pumpkin) helps to form stools
Supplements that help
| Supplement | Role |
|---|---|
| Probiotic / synbiotic | Restores gut flora |
| Omega-3 (EPA+DHA) | Reduces mucosal inflammation |
| Vitamin B12 | Deficiency is common in IBD, supplemented by injection |
| Glutamine | Energy source for intestinal epithelial cells |
What never to do
- Do not change food every 2-3 weeks on a "maybe this is better" basis: every change restarts the process
- Do not feed a raw diet to an inflamed intestine without a diagnosis
- Do not stop the diet after the first good week; remission requires a stable diet for months
When it's urgent
Bloody, black stools, persistent vomiting, lethargy, sudden severe weight loss: see a vet immediately.
This information is for guidance only and does not replace a veterinary examination.
Free tool — no sign-up
Enter weight and activity level — 10 seconds and you get the daily portion.
This is general information and does not replace a veterinary diagnosis.
This guide was compiled based on the expert input of Reka Fazekas-Birizdo canine nutritionist.
Certified Canine Nutritionist