Dysbiosis (Leaky Gut) in Dogs

The cause of dysbiosis syndrome in dogs varies, but it is almost always due to diet or medications, such as antibiotics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDS). The condition itself is due to the destruction of the good bacteria in the intestinal tract, giving the bad bacteria the chance to take over. Risk factors for this disorder include a diet high in processed foods and grains, stress, antibiotics, corticosteroids, and NSAIDS.

Dysbiosis syndrome is a disturbance in the small intestines, leading to damage of the intestinal lining and microvilli. The main job of these microvilli is to absorb the digested nutrients and send them through the cell into the bloodstream. When the lining and microvilli are damaged, they allow molecules to be transported into the bloodstream without being examined by mucosal cells. The liver tries to screen the molecules, but cannot do it so the immune system takes over. This means the immune system has to neglect other systems, such as fighting bacteria and filtering the blood, causing autoimmune diseases and other problems.

The symptoms of dysbiosis syndrome vary depending on the reason for the syndrome and the age and health of your dog. Some of the most common signs your dog is suffering from dysbiosis syndrome are:

• Gas
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Bad breath
• Hyperactivity
• Bladder infections
• Weight loss or gain
• Gum disease
• Immune system disorders
• Respiratory illnesses such as asthma
• Allergies
• Joint pain
• Gastrointestinal cancer

 Types

Dysbiosis syndrome can manifest itself in many ways, such as allergies (dermatitis), behavioral problems (hyperactivity), intestinal distress (diarrhea, gas, vomiting), respiratory issues (asthma), and immune system disorders (chronic fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome). There are also several names that dysbiosis syndrome is known by:

• Antibiotic-responsive diarrhea
• Leaky gut syndrome
• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
• Small intestinal dysbiosis (SID)
• Tylosin-responsive diarrhea

According to veterinary professionals, the most common cause of dysbiosis syndrome is antibiotics. However, there are a few other causes, such as:

• Corticosteroids
• Dyes
• Grains
• NSAIDS
• Parasites
• Preservatives
• Processed foods
• Stress
• Surfactants
• Toxins
• Vaccines

To diagnose dysbiosis syndrome, the veterinarian will need to know your dog’s medical history and background, including any medications (antibiotics, NSAIDS, corticosteroids) given at any time. You should also tell the veterinarian about the symptoms you have noticed and what kind of foods you feed your dog, which should include kibble, canned food, and treats. Be sure to let her know if you have given your dog human food or table scraps as well.

A comprehensive physical examination will need to be performed, which may include body weight, temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen levels, breath sounds, and abdominal palpations. Both urine and stool samples will be taken at this time to examine under a microscope. Bacterial and fungal cultures may also be taken for microscopic evaluation. A liver enzyme panel will be performed to check for increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). In addition, the veterinarian will perform a complete blood count (CBC), biochemical profile, arterial blood gas (ABG), blood glucose, packed cell volume (PCV), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Bacterial and fungal cultures may also be taken for microscopic evaluation.

Abdominal radiographs (x-rays) are needed to check for any underlying diseases, and an ultrasound may be done to provide additional information. The veterinarian may also want to do an MRI and CT scan to determine if there are any blockages or other abnormalities in the intestinal system. Most often, the veterinarian will not be able to get a conclusive diagnosis from the examination, but will use these tests to eliminate other illnesses and conditions.

The treatment for dysbiosis syndrome will vary depending on the cause (if known), the amount of damage that has been done (if known), and the health of your dog. The treatment for any illness is usually stabilization, medication, and observation. If there are complications from the condition, they will be treated according to how serious and how treatable they are.

Stabilization

If your pet has had diarrhea or vomiting, your veterinarian will most likely start an intravenous (IV) line to administer fluids and electrolytes. This prevents dehydration and restores electrolyte levels. If your dog has any respiratory issues, oxygen therapy will be started.

Medication

Enzyme supplements are the medication of choice for dysbiosis syndrome to help restore the bacterial balance in the intestinal tract. If your dog has other conditions, medication may be given for those as well. For infections, there are several “safe” antibiotics your veterinarian can give your pet if necessary. The veterinarian will also suggest a special diet for your dog that will help the digestive system heal and prevent the syndrome from returning.

Observation

The veterinarian will usually not keep your dog for observation unless there are serious complications. You will be allowed to observe your pet from home.

Be consistent and vigilant with your dog’s treatment to avoid a recurrence of dysbiosis syndrome. The diet your dog is on must continue for life and always remind anyone in the home about your pet’s condition. In addition, be sure to tell any veterinary professional you take your pet to see about the condition and that the administration of antibiotics or NSAIDS must be carefully considered. As long as you stick to these guidelines, your dog should recover completely with no lasting complications. If you have any concerns, you should call your veterinarian.

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