What is hemorrhagic gastroenteritis?
Have you said ‘my dog is pooping blood — what do I do?’ in the last few days? If this has happened all of a sudden, or if your furry friend is currently experiencing bouts of bloody diarrhea, you’re probably feeling concerned — and rightly so.
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE), now sometimes referred to as Acute Hemorrhagic Diarrhea Syndrome (AHDS), is a serious condition that affects dogs of all breeds, though smaller breeds seem to be particularly vulnerable.
While blood in your dog’s stool, and HGE itself, can be alarming, the good news is that it’s treatable with swift care from your vet.
Let’s break it down so you know what to look for, how it’s treated, and how to help your dog recover.
HGE is a condition characterized by sudden onset of severe bloody diarrhea and vomiting. It happens when the lining of the dog’s gastrointestinal tract becomes inflamed, leading to leakage of fluids and blood into the intestines.
While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, HGE often comes on rapidly and can progress to life-threatening dehydration if not treated promptly. Despite its severity, most dogs recover fully with early vet care and appropriate treatment.
Symptoms of Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis in Dogs
Here are the general symptoms of HGE to look out for in your pup:
Early signs to watch for
The most common symptom of HGE is sudden, severe bloody diarrhea. If your dog is pooping blood, especially in large amounts or with a watery consistency, this is a red flag.
You might also notice your dog vomiting, and sometimes the vomit may also contain blood. These symptoms often come out of the blue, even in dogs that seemed perfectly healthy the day before, which might add to your stress around the situation.
Progression of symptoms
As the condition progresses, your dog may become lethargic and weak. Dehydration sets in quickly because of the rapid loss of fluids, which can be life-threatening if not addressed.
Check your dog’s gums. If they’re pale and tacky, this could mean shock, another serious complication of HGE. Rapid heart rates and overall weakness are additional signs that immediate vet attention is needed.
If these symptoms sound familiar, don’t delay. HGE progresses quickly, and your dog’s best chance of recovery is early intervention together with your vet.
Pet insurance is the best way to make sure your pup is prepared for anything. With Wag! Compare, you can browse the best plans from top insurance providers across the nation - find the right plan for your furry friend and keep their health your top priority.
Causes of Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis in Dogs
Unfortunately, the exact cause of HGE isn’t fully understood. But there are several suspected triggers.
Dietary indiscretions — like your dog scavenging through the trash or eating raw or spoiled food — are common culprits. Stress, such as from boarding, travelling, or significant changes in the home, is another potential factor that can set off the condition.
Breed predispositions and risk factors
Certain breeds seem to be more susceptible to HGE. Small dogs, especially Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, and Toy Poodles, are commonly affected. While HGE can occur in any dog, it’s more frequently seen in middle-aged dogs. Understanding these risk factors can help you stay alert to early signs in vulnerable breeds.
The mystery factor
One of the more frustrating aspects of HGE is that its exact cause often remains a mystery. While stress and diet are strong contenders, the condition can occur without any clear trigger, leaving even the most diligent of pet owners feeling confused and concerned.
Diagnosis of Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis in Dogs
When you bring your dog to the vet, the first step will be a thorough physical examination. Your vet will assess your dog’s hydration levels and overall health.
To confirm HGE, your vet may recommend a Packed Cell Volume (PCV) test, which measures the concentration of red blood cells in your dog’s blood. Elevated PCV levels, often above 60%, combined with normal or low total protein levels, are key indicators of HGE.
Differential diagnosis
Because HGE symptoms overlap with other serious conditions like parvovirus, intestinal parasites, and some bacterial infections, your vet will likely perform additional tests to rule out these possibilities. These tests may include bloodwork, fecal examinations, and even imaging studies to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Getting your dog to the vet as soon as you can is key here. Prompt and precise diagnosis is most important to begin effective treatment and avoid complications down the line.
Want access to a 24/7 vet chat, yearly check-ups, annual booster shots and more? Sign up for a Wag! Wellness plan today and ensure your pup stays happy and healthy.
Treatment of Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis in Dogs
Treatment for HGE typically begins with intravenous (IV) fluids to rehydrate your dog and restore lost electrolytes. This step is crucial, as dehydration is one of the most dangerous aspects of the condition. Your vet may also administer anti-nausea medications to help control vomiting and make your dog more comfortable.
Supportive medications
In some cases, antibiotics are prescribed to prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections, though this might depend on the individual case and the vet’s approach. Pain relief and anti-diarrheal medications may also be used to ease your pup’s symptoms.
Dietary adjustments
Once your dog’s condition stabilizes, your vet will most likely recommend a bland diet for a few days to give the digestive system a chance to recover. This could include easily digestible options like boiled chicken and rice.
Gradually, your dog’s regular diet can be reintroduced with the help of your vet.
On the hunt for bland food for your pup’s tummy troubles? Try out some of the best dog foods to eat while having diarrhea and help them recover quickly.
Worried about the cost of treating your pet's symptoms?
Pet Insurance covers the cost of many common pet health conditions. Prepare for the unexpected by getting a quote from top pet insurance providers.
Recovery of Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis in Dogs
Expected recovery timeline
With prompt and proper treatment, most dogs recover from HGE within a few days! But the recovery process requires close monitoring. Be sure to follow your vet’s instructions carefully, especially when it comes to medications and dietary restrictions.
Managing recurrence risks
Unfortunately, HGE can come back for some dogs. To minimize this risk, keep your dog on a high-quality, consistent diet and avoid giving them table scraps or allowing them to scavenge unknown foods. Keep an eye out on walks to make sure they’ve not snatched something foreign in their mouth.
Reducing stress is also essential; maintaining a regular routine and providing a calm, comfortable environment can help.
Long-term outlook
The prognosis for dogs treated early is excellent — good to hear, right? Regular vet check-ups can also help monitor your dog’s overall health and catch any issues before they escalate. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can give your pup the best possible care and peace of mind!
Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
basset coon hound mix
Apollo
5 Years
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Slight Blood In Stool
Mild Diahrea
My dog has a sensitive tummy often. The other night (wednesday) he ate a few papa johns chicken poppers (about 2 or 3) and Thursdays he had diahrea, late thursday he had bright red blood with the stools and it would come and go in smaller or streaked amounts (never just outright blood).
I called the vet to get some help but they're closed on the weekend and I will go Monday. But in the meantime he's on some rice and chicken raw/bland diet with probiotic powder (which seems to help his stools but not the blood completely).
He doesn't have any other symptoms. He's got an appetite, he's playful and the same old pupper I love! What could be wrong? Is it possible because of his sensitive stomach he's just having a harder time and tore his rectum a bit ? Likewise, what are some estimated costs for the standard tests for Hemorrhagic Gastro? Thanks~
Jan. 28, 2018
1 Recommendations
Papa John's Chicken Poppers list the following ingredients:
“Boneless skinless chicken breast, water, seasoning, sodium phosphates, Breading / Batter: Enriched wheat flour, potato starch, vital wheat gluten, salt, leavening, spices, garlic powder, onion powder, dextrose, sugar, extractives of paprika, yeast.”
Despite the blood in the stool, the ingredients also list garlic powder and onion powder both of which are toxic to dogs and may cause anaemia, there shouldn’t be enough in the batter to cause severe symptoms but check for pale gums. It is most likely a case of gastritis which should pass with time and a bland diet; however you should visit your Veterinarian or an Emergency Veterinarian regardless especially if there is a worsening of symptoms. Ig you see symptoms of raspberry jam/jelly consistency or the gums are pale treat as an emergency. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
www.papajohns.com/company/papa-johns-ingredients.html
Jan. 28, 2018
My dog had hge and had iv of fluids for 16 hours,antibiotics and a bland diet (boiled chicken and rice)he is fine now.Eating cat food could have been a contributing factor in the cause of this and the treatment cost was $600.00
Feb. 28, 2018
Silver T.
Silver T, thank you for posting. I think my puppy has hge and I’m taking her to the vet tomorrow.
March 2, 2018
Christian C.
Was this question and answer helpful?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel x Poodle (Cavoodle)
Moss
15 Months
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
Hi,
My 15month old Cavoodle had HG this week. Started 3am Monday,it's now Friday.
He's on the mend, after having spent the night at the vet on a drip & sent home with antibiotics & I think it's Omerazole along with a probiotic & some electrolyte fluids.
He still takes a little while to get out of bed in the morning, he has to be prompted to go outside & wee. He also seems to sleep a lot more during the day. Just wondering what the average recovery time is? He's usually very energetic still being a puppy. Is this normal?
Jan. 18, 2018
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
1 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. Im sorry that Moss has had that problem. It can take some time to recover from such an insult, and it wouldn't be unusual to hav a few days where he is a little more tired. If he continues to eat, drink, and have normal bowel movements, you should be okay to monitor him. If you are not sure that he is okay, it would be best to have him examined to make sure that he is okay!
Jan. 19, 2018
Was this question and answer helpful?
Australian Cattle Dog
Loki
2 Years
2 found this helpful
2 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Hge
Hge, Not Having A Bowel Movement
My dog was diagnosed and treated for HGE and pancreatitis on Tuesday and was back home Wednesday night. He is eating again and acting more like himself however he has not had a bowel movement since (5 days). He has been on a chicken and rice diet. Is this normal? I know he was very emptied out and it could take some time for him to be able to go but how long is too long? I don't want him to get constipated.
Jan. 1, 2018
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
2 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. It can take quite a few days to have a normal BM after having such severe diarrhea. If he is eating and drinking well, and not straining to defecate, you should be fine to monitor him for a normal BM - I suspect he may have one today! If he still hasn't had a BM by tomorrow, or he is straining and looking uncomfortable, he should have a recheck with his veterinarian, and they may take an x-ray to assess whether he is becoming constipated. I hope that he is okay.
Jan. 1, 2018
Was this question and answer helpful?
Yorkshire Terrier
Milly
6 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Diarrhea
I am wondering what I can do to boost my dogs immune system following this condition of HGE? Anything to do (food or supplements) moving forward to help prevent it from happening again and boost her overall health?
Sept. 24, 2017
0 Recommendations
There is no real 100% method of boosting a dog’s immune system; the best course of action would be to ensure that they are fed a high quality kibble, have regular exercise and is vaccinated/wormed/flea treatment etc… With a complete balanced dog food, supplementation in an otherwise healthy dog isn’t necessary. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Sept. 24, 2017
Was this question and answer helpful?
