Great Danes, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers and Collies tend to have more digestive sensitivities.

• Abrupt changes in a pet’s diet.
• Eating table scraps or rich snacks.
• Eating spoiled food from the garbage.
• Stressful events, such as traveling, boarding or separation anxiety.
• Internal parasites.
• Allergies.
• Medication side effects.
• Body organ dysfunction.

• Onions, garlic, apple seeds, apricot pits, cherry pits, macadamia nuts, moldy foods, mushroom plants, mustard seeds, peach pits, potato leaves and stems, rhubarb leaves, salt, tomato leaves and stems, walnuts, yeast dough, avocado, grapes and raisins, milk and dairy, chives.
• Chocolate, candy containing the sweetener xylitol.
• Alcoholic beverages, coffee and tea (caffeine), gum (xylitol), hops from home beer brewing.

Note: This list is not all-inclusive but addresses the most common concerns.

• Always be on the lookout for signs of digestive discomfort, such as:
  • Straining during defecation
  • Excess gas
  • Loss of appetite
  • Need to go outside or use litterbox more often than usual
  • Vomiting
• If you are concerned about a digestive issue, ask yourself these questions:
  • Has your dog or cat gotten into anything they should not have, such as garbage, dangerous food items, food on the counter, or treats from a non-family member?
  • Did your dog or cat get exposed to or eat any indoor or outdoor toxic plants?
  • Did your dog or cat get into anything in the backyard, such as a dead animal or wildlife scat?

If the issue persists, consult your veterinarian to determine if there are any underlying health issues. Ask if a stool sample should be brought to the appointment.

• Make sure to always have a fresh source of water available, including rest stops when traveling by car.
• Be sure to bring enough of your dog’s food for the trip. Avoid the need to switch brands or diet while traveling.
• Try to maintain your daily feeding times.
• Avoid new treats and watch that your dog does not steal food lying around.
• Avoid letting your dog drink or swallow river or lake water.

• Water is one of the most vital nutrients that is needed daily. It has multiple functions in the body, including the facilitation of digestion and metabolism. Water also aids in the regulation of body temperature and the elimination of waste in the body.
• If your dog or cat is undergoing digestive upsets like diarrhea or vomiting, they may become severely dehydrated. Assuring good hydration will be important during these health events.
• The best tip for keeping your pet hydrated is to make sure they always have access to a fresh water supply. Be sure you are cleaning and refilling your water bowls daily.
• Be sure to remember to bring a source of water during long car rides or long walks. In general, be as cognizant of your pet’s hydration needs as you are for yourself. If you are bringing water bottles for you and your family, be sure to add one for your dog or cat as well.

• Poison ivy, oak and sumac.
• American and English holly, mistletoe and poinsettias.
• The lily flower family: lilies, tiger lilies, tulips, calla lilies, daylilies.
• Baby’s breath, bird of paradise, carnations, daffodils, dahlias, irises, peonies, geraniums and foxgloves.
• Azaleas, buttercups, chrysanthemums, gardenias, gladiolas, hibiscus, hydrangeas, mums, primrose, rhododendrons and sweet peas.
• Climbing plants like ivy and wisteria.
• Medicinal plants, such as St. John’s wort, aloe vera, tobacco and rhubarb.

Note: This list is not all-inclusive but addresses the most common concerns.

Establishing and maintaining a routine is important for your dog’s digestive health. Consistent exercise helps to maximize digestion and keep food passing through the digestive tract. The ideal amount and type of exercise can vary by breed, lifestyle and age. Read more to determine the right balance for your dog.