What is glaucoma in a dog?
You might notice your dog squinting more at mealtime or avoiding bright sunlight—these small changes could be early signs of a serious eye condition.
How to treat symptoms of poor intestinal health in dogs
If your dog turns up their nose at dinner, has frequent loose stools, or seems tired after eating, poor gut health is probably to blame.
If your dog turns up their nose at dinner, has frequent loose stools, or seems tired after eating, poor gut health is probably to blame. Many new owners don’t realize that a dog’s digestive system relies on a balanced mix of “good” bacteria to break down food and absorb nutrients—when that balance gets off-kilter, discomfort follows. Fixing gut issues isn’t about fancy supplements alone; it’s about gentle, consistent changes that support their microbiome, paired with habits that fit your daily routine.
At its core, gut health depends on the microbiome—the trillions of bacteria living in your dog’s intestines. When bad bacteria outnumber the good, digestion slows, and inflammation rises. Start with diet: swap their regular kibble for a limited-ingredient formula (skip corn, wheat, or soy, common irritants) or add vet-recommended probiotics (live good bacteria) to their meals—think plain, unsweetened yogurt or a powdered probiotic made for dogs. If they have diarrhea, try a 12–24 hour food break (offer small sips of water to stay hydrated) then feed boiled chicken and white rice in tiny portions—this eases stress on their gut. Never scold your dog for accidents during this time; punishment increases anxiety, which worsens gut issues and goes against U.S. animal welfare norms.
Apartment dwellers need to adapt: keep pee pads in a quiet corner for when they can’t hold it, and use enzyme cleaners to erase odors (this stops them from repeating accidents). When walking, always carry extra poop bags—fines for skipping cleanup reach $250 in Austin—and jot down stool changes to share with your vet. Make sure your dog’s vaccines (especially parvovirus, which damages the gut) are current—all U.S. states require rabies shots, and puppy boosters are non-negotiable to prevent gut infections.
Avoid sudden diet switches—mix new food with old over 7–10 days to avoid shocking their system. For long-term care, add a spoonful of plain pumpkin (not pie filling) to meals for fiber, which regulates bowel movements. If symptoms like blood in stool or vomiting last more than 48 hours, call your vet—they can rule out allergies or blockages. By combining gentle diet tweaks, positive care, and local pet rules, you’ll help your dog’s gut bounce back—and get them excited for mealtime again.
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