Colitis in a common condition in dogs that causes inflammation of the large intestine or colon. It can be incredibly distressing for you and your dog, and can lead to diarrhoea and loose stools which contain blood and mucus. There are numerous causes of colitis in dogs, including stress, existing conditions like irritable bowel disease (IBD), a gut infection, or food allergies. No matter the cause, colitis can be incredibly painful and should be taken care of straight away. A dog with colitis will need a specific diet to reduce inflammation and strain on their digestive system, but is dry dog food the best choice, or should you choose something else?
In our guide, we will explore the ingredients to choose if your dog has colitis. We will highlight foods to avoid if your dog has colitis, as well as the best food (raw, wet or dry) to feed your dog to ease their distress. We will also discuss other ways to help your dog with colitis, and how our products and wellbeing consultations here at Fetch can assist.
- What Dog Food Features Should I Look for if My Dog has Colitis?
- Can Weight Management Help Dogs with Colitis?
- What Food Should I Avoid if my Dog has Colitis?
- What Dog Food is Best for a Dog with Colitis?
- How Else Can I Help my Dog with Colitis?
- Canine Colitis Management at Fetch
Here are the best ingredients that could help ease your dog’s colitis symptoms
Discover whether your dog’s weight could be contributing to their illness
These foods could trigger flare ups and cause further inflammation
Choose between raw, wet and dry dog food for colitis here
As well as changing their diet, there are supplements and probiotics you can provide
Here’s how we can assist
What Dog Food Features Should I Look for if My Dog has Colitis?
Knowing exactly what to feed your dog with colitis can be tricky; we don’t want to put our dogs through any more pain than they may already be feeling. Our team here at Fetch believe in rebuilding the immune system and gut microbiome and offering healthier food that will suit you and your dog.
Plain food is often recommended for dogs with colitis, but dog specific options to consider if your dog has colitis include:
- Fibre: dog food that is high in fibre can be beneficial for dogs with colitis, as it can promote regular bowel movements and improve consistency. However, some dogs with colitis may be irritated by food that is high in fibre, so it is important to consult with a professional to see how much fibre your dog can take. Our DARF cold pressed dog food is rich in prebiotic fibre, making it ideal for dogs with colitis.
- Novel proteins: also known as less common proteins, meat such as venison and rabbit may be easier for your dog to digest, especially if your dog has a food allergy or intolerance that is contributing to their colitis.
- Probiotics and prebiotics: designed to balance and introduce healthy bacteria into the gut, pre and probiotics can lessen the symptoms of colitis.
- Low fat: fatty foods can inflame the digestive system, which can in turn be harder for your dog’s intestines to absorb. Nourish Rite provide a “light” range perfect for dogs on low fat diets.
Can Weight Management Help Dogs with Colitis?
Proper nutrition is essential for managing colitis in dogs, which is why you should consider what you are feeding your dog, and how much. Chronic colitis in dogs can lead to weight loss, but it important to not give your dog too much food if you notice this, as it could irritate their intestines and colon.
Book a wellbeing consultation today to discuss your dog’s condition in more detail.
What Food Should I Avoid if my Dog has Colitis?
Common food types to avoid if your dog has colitis include:
- High fat: this can irritate the colon and make symptoms of colitis much worse
- Food allergens: common food intolerances dogs can have include beef, chicken, dairy, soy and grain, all of which should be avoided before you take your dog to be examined by a professional. Once any allergens have been determined, your nutrition specialist will advise on the best diet to provide.
- Poor quality dog food: dog food with artificial colours and preservatives and excess quantities of carbohydrates will not give your dog the diet they deserve. Generally, it hasn’t been designed with sensitivities in mind, and can irritate your dog’s digestive system.
We have plenty of digestive-friendly dry dog food options available at Fetch, which you can browse here.
What Dog Food is Best for a Dog with Colitis?
Raw, wet and dry dog food all have their benefits, and deciding on the best choice can be tricky. Please use our guide below as guidance, but always consult a professional first before making any drastic changes.
| Type of Food | Benefits for Dogs with Colitis | Cons for Dogs with Colitis | Overall Suitability |
| Raw Dog Food |
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Overall raw dog food is a non-processed option that is gentle on the digestive tract. It is not suitable to move your dog to a raw diet if they are actively suffering from colitis symptoms. Allow the symptoms to settle before transitioning. |
| Wet Dog Food |
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Generally, a good choice for dogs with colitis due to its high moisture and digestibility, though care must be taken with ingredients. |
| Dry Dog Food |
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Less suitable for dogs with colitis as it is more processed than wet or raw foods. May require supplementation with water or moisture-rich foods. |
How Else Can I Help my Dog with Colitis?
As well as analysing their diet, consider making these changes to help ease your dog’s colitis symptoms:
- Hydration is key: most dogs may become dehydrated if they have frequent diarrhoea due to their condition, so always make sure fresh water is available. It is also beneficial to include bone broth.
- Provide supplements, such as prebiotics and probiotics: providing your dog with the essential nutrients they need can aid in easing symptoms. Consider Holistic Hound Fundamental’s Digestion, which can promote gut health
- Anti-inflammatory supplements: ease irritation by introducing anti-inflammatory supplements to their diet such as Holistic Hound Golden Paste
Canine Colitis Management at Fetch
At Fetch, we believe in getting to the root cause of your dog’s illness rather than masking it with medication. Our nutrition specialists can examine your dog and aim to restabilise their gut health by suggesting dietary changes and supplements, also taking into account your lifestyle and needs. We can ensure your dog leads a healthier lifestyle, with lessened symptoms and tasty food to satisfy their tastebuds. Rather than making the immediate switch to raw, wet or dry dog food, consult an expert today.
To find out more, book your wellbeing consultation here.