Reflux in Labradoodles

Labradoodles are intelligent, friendly and low-shedding dogs. Though they are generally healthy and full of energy, they, as other pets, can be susceptible to acid reflux.

  1. Definition of Acid Reflux

    • Acid reflux describes the rise of gastric juices, or fluid from the intestines, into the esophagus, thus causing irritation or, potentially, damage to the esophageal mucus lining.

    Causes

    • Labradoodles can suffer acid reflux due to the effects of anesthesia, as the sphincter muscle between the esophagus and stomach relaxes. If the dog is either not positioned correctly prior to the anesthesia or not properly fasted prior to the anesthetic administration, it can also experience acid reflux. In more extreme cases, the reflux can be due to a hiatal hernia, a foreign body lodged in the esophagus, or esophageal cancer. Puppies, whose sphincter muscles may be lazier or underdeveloped, are also prone to acid reflux.

    Symptoms

    • The symptoms of acid reflux in labradoodles include regurgitation of food, whining while and/or difficulty swallowing, loss of weight and decrease in appetite. In more extreme cases, symptoms may include heavy salivation and fever.

    Treatment

    • You can treat your labradoodle's acid reflux at home. For the first one or two days after the pet has evidenced acid reflux, do not give him any food (however, be sure to provide water to avoid dehydration). Afterward, feed him smaller and more frequent meals that are low in fact and protein, as fat weakens the sphincter muscle and protein causes more gastric acid to be secreted.

    Home Care

    • Sometimes your veterinarian will prescribe medication to treat your labradoodle's acid reflux. In such a case, administer the medicine as he has directed. Feed your dog a regular diet of low-fat, low-protein meals, but do not do so late at night as this can relax the esophageal sphincter muscle during his sleep and allow reflux to occur.

    Considerations

    • While there are medications that your veterinarian can prescribe to relieve your dog's acid reflux, some may have side effects. It is important to speak with the veterinarian to determine dosage as well as possible side effects.