Shih Tzu Upset Stomach Problems

Overview

Dealing with upset stomach issues in a Shih Tzu can be a cause for concern, especially given their small size. Disruptions in their eating or drinking habits can quickly lead to dehydration and weight loss. Fortunately, many instances of upset stomach in Shih Tzu dogs can be effectively addressed at home.

In this article, we'll cover:



• Potential causes of upset stomach
• Recognizing common symptoms
• Home remedies for symptom relief and restoring your little guy or gal’s well-being
• Identifying symptoms that indicate a serious health issue requiring veterinary care
• Preventing upset tummy issues
  

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Identifying Common Signs

Your Shih Tzu cannot communicate discomfort verbally, so it's important to watch for physical signs of distress, which may include:

• Vomiting or dry heaving
• Diarrhea
• Loud stomach gurgling
• Excessive gas
• Increased drooling

In mild cases, you might notice one episode of vomiting followed by a period of lethargy. A dog may show increased thirst but generally will seem fatigued. For mild, acute diarrhea, symptoms might persist for about 24 hours, during which the Shih Tzu may lose their appetite. Such stomach issues can be particularly draining for a small dog.

Reasons for Upset Stomach in Shih Tzu Dogs

Common Causes: 

Outdoor Consumption: Eating grass or other outdoor plants can cause sickness. Some plants may be toxic, necessitating immediate veterinary attention if severe symptoms occur. Some plants like lilies, azaleas, rhododendrons, oleander, and sago palm are toxic to dogs, causing symptoms ranging from kidney failure to heart issues and severe gastrointestinal upset. Tulips and hyacinths can also cause nervous system depression. If you suspect your Shih Tzu has ingested these, seek veterinary care immediately. 

Trash Exploration: Access to garbage can expose your dog to harmful substances. If you suspect ingestion of toxic substances like onions, chocolate, or Xylitol-containing products, seek veterinary assistance right away.

Dietary Changes: Sudden changes in diet, including main meals or treats, can upset a Shih Tzu's stomach. Gradually transitioning to new foods over a month is recommended.

Eating Too Quickly: Rapid consumption without proper chewing can upset digestion. Using a slow-feeding bowl like the Neater Pet Brands Stainless Steel Slow Feed Bowl which is sized for small dogs or spreading out meal times can help mitigate this.

Food Intolerance or Allergy: Some dogs may be intolerant or allergic to specific ingredients in their food, such as certain proteins, grains, or additives.

Less Common but Possible:



• Parasites: Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and giardia can cause gastrointestinal distress.
  
• Bacterial or Viral Infections: Infections such as parvovirus, coronavirus, or bacterial infections like salmonella can lead to upset stomachs.
  
• Medications: Certain medications can cause stomach irritation or upset as a side effect.
  
• Stress or Anxiety: Emotional stress or anxiety can manifest physically in dogs, often affecting their digestive system. See also: Shih Tzu Separation Anxiety.
  
• Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions like pancreatitis, stomach ulcers, liver disease, kidney disease, or gastrointestinal disorders can lead to chronic or acute stomach upset.

Understanding the cause of a dog's upset stomach is crucial for proper treatment. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other signs of illness, it's important to consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

Home Treatment for a Shih Tzu's Upset Stomach

In mild cases, home treatment can aid recovery and includes:

Fasting to Rest the Stomach: Withhold food for 10-16 hours, but prevent hypoglycemia by providing small doses of honey every 2 hours. Before giving honey, consult your vet, especially if your Shih Tzu has never had it before or if it has any known health issues like diabetes. Dosing is about 1/2 teaspoon of honey every 2 hours for dogs under 10 lbs. and approximately 1 teaspoon every 2 hours for dogs 10 to 20 lbs.

Replenishing Electrolytes: Offer a mixture of water and unflavored Pedialyte to replace lost electrolytes. Consider offering ice chips if the dog struggles with drinking water.

Bland Diet: Offer easily digestible foods like sweet potatoes, white rice, and plain chicken. Include snacks like plain yogurt or canned pumpkin for their probiotic benefits.

Use of Pepto Bismal: Consult your vet before administering Pepto Bismal. Follow vet-recommended dosages based on your dog's weight.

Probiotics: Probiotics play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut flora, which is vital for overall digestive health. They can help re-balance the good bacteria in your Shih Tzu's gut, especially after a bout of gastrointestinal upset. For this, we really like Zesty Paws Probiotics for Dogs. 

Consider switching dog food brands if you suspect an intolerance: A Shih Tzu's upset stomach can be due to sensitivity or intolerance to a specific ingredient in their current dog food. Ingredients like certain grains, proteins, or additives might not agree with their digestive system. See also: Shih Tzu Feeding Guidelines. 

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Seek immediate veterinary care if your Shih Tzu exhibits any of the following:

• Excessive bloating
• Restlessness or agitation
• Continuous drooling
• Prolonged vomiting or diarrhea
• Signs of dehydration, such as dry gums

Remember, while home remedies can be effective for minor tummy troubles, they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care in the face of serious health problems. When in doubt, always consult your veterinarian for guidance and treatment.

What to Do if Your Shih Tzu is Throwing Up

Seeing your Shih Tzu vomit can be distressing, but there are steps you can take to help manage the situation and determine if veterinary care is needed.

1. Remove Food and Water Temporarily: Initially, remove food and water to give your dog's stomach a break. This brief fasting period can help the stomach settle.
2. Observe the Vomit: Check the vomit for any unusual contents like foreign objects or blood. This information can be crucial for your vet to diagnose the issue.
3. Monitor Frequency and Behavior: Keep track of how often your Shih Tzu is vomiting and any accompanying symptoms like lethargy, diarrhea, or refusal to eat.
4. Gradually Reintroduce Water: After a few hours without vomiting, offer a small amount of water. If your dog keeps it down, gradually increase the amount over time.
5. Offer a Bland Diet: If your dog isn't vomiting and seems a bit better, start feeding a bland diet like boiled chicken and rice in small, frequent portions.
6. Watch for Dehydration: Signs of dehydration include dry gums and lethargy. Ensure your Shih Tzu is getting enough fluids, and if you suspect dehydration, contact your vet immediately.
7. Seek Veterinary Care: If vomiting persists for more than 24 hours, if there's blood in the vomit, or if your dog shows signs of distress, pain, or lethargy, seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

It's important to remember that while occasional vomiting may not be a serious concern, frequent or severe vomiting can indicate a more serious underlying condition. Always consult with your veterinarian for the best course of action.

What to Do if Your Shih Tzu has Diarrhea

Diarrhea in Shih Tzu dogs can be concerning, but there are steps you can take to manage the situation while determining if additional veterinary care is needed.

1. Fast Briefly: Begin by withholding food for 12-24 hours to give your dog's digestive system a rest. However, ensure they have access to plenty of fresh water to avoid dehydration.
2. Monitor Hydration: Pay close attention to your dog's hydration levels. Signs of dehydration include dry gums, lethargy, and a decrease in skin elasticity. Offer small amounts of water regularly.
3. Doggie Diapers: If the diarrhea is uncontrollable, consider using disposable doggie diapers to prevent messes around the house. Ones like Paw Inspired Disposable Dog Diapers can help keep your Shih Tzu comfortable and reduce stress for both of you. Be sure to change the diapers frequently to prevent skin irritation.
4. Reintroduce Food Gradually: After the fasting period, gradually reintroduce a bland diet, such as boiled chicken and rice. Start with small, frequent meals.
5. Probiotics and Plain Pumpkin: Adding probiotics or a small amount of plain, canned pumpkin (not pie filling) to your dog's food can help firm up their stools. Pumpkin is high in fiber, which can aid in digestion.
6. Observe Stool and Behavior: Monitor the consistency of your dog's stool as well as their overall behavior. Diarrhea accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite is particularly concerning.
7. Consult Your Veterinarian: If diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours, if there is blood in the stool, or if your Shih Tzu shows signs of distress, consult your veterinarian immediately. Chronic diarrhea can lead to serious health issues.
8. Maintain a Clean Environment: Regularly clean and disinfect areas where your dog spends time to prevent the spread of any potential infectious agents.

Remember, while diarrhea is a common issue in dogs, persistent or severe cases warrant professional veterinary attention to ensure there's no underlying health concern.

How to Prevent Upset Stomach Issues

Helping to prevent future upset stomachs with Shih Tzu dogs involves:

• Diet Management: Consistently provide a well-balanced diet suitable for the breed. Avoid sudden changes in food types or brands.
• Avoiding Harmful Substances: Keep trash, toxic foods, and plants out of your Shih Tzu's reach and always supervise them when they are outside.
• Probiotics, also a part of treatment, can work as prevention. To maintain optimal digestive health and prevent gastrointestinal issues, incorporating probiotics into your Shih Tzu's diet is beneficial. These supplements support a balanced gut flora, ensuring a healthy environment for good bacteria to thrive, which is especially important for preventing digestive upsets. And we do love Zesty Paws Probiotics for Dogs.
• Regular Monitoring: Observe your Shih Tzu’s eating habits, ensuring they don't eat too quickly or consume harmful objects during walks or outdoor time.

Remember, while home remedies can help with minor issues, they're not a substitute for professional care in serious cases. Always consult your veterinarian for advice and treatment.

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