Colitis in Dogs: Here Are 11 Natural Remedies You Can Use 2025

Colitis in dogs is one of the health problems your four-legged friend might face at some point in their life.

Although this disease is common in dogs, there is always a possibility that it can lead to more serious consequences without immediate and proper treatment and care.

But the fact is, resorting to "conventional" medicine isn't your only option when it comes to supporting your dog through colitis. In this article, I'll share some home remedies that will help you manage this health problem.

So, why not start by finding out what exactly colitis in dogs is?

What is colitis in dogs?

Colitis in dogs occurs when the colon becomes irritated and eventually inflamed.

Although all dogs are susceptible to developing this condition, regardless of age and gender, studies show that it may be more prevalent in certain breeds such as the Miniature Schnauzer, French Bulldog, German Shepherd, and Boxer.

In addition to extracting nutrients from digested food and maintaining balanced electrolyte and fluid levels, your dog's colon also serves as a temporary storage area for fecal matter before it is expelled from his body.

When your faithful companion has colitis, he may be subject to gastric pain and discomfort, not to mention difficulty or pain in passing stools and episodes of diarrhea in some cases.

However, your dog may be at risk of more serious or even fatal side effects if this health problem is ignored.

In addition to risking peritonitis, or the acute inflammation of the inner lining of the abdominal cavity, severe cases of colitis in dogs can also lead to sepsis, the extreme immune system response to infection that can potentially lead to organ failure and even death.

Now let's discuss the classifications of colitis in dogs.

What are the classifications of colitis in dogs?

There are two (2) distinct classifications of canine colitis, namely short-term colitis and chronic colitis .

The first refers to cases where this health problem lasts only from 3 days to a week, while the latter refers to those that last more than two weeks.

Short-term colitis is generally considered the "mild" variant of canine colitis. The likelihood of your pet experiencing the more serious side effects of this disease—such as sepsis and peritonitis—is often attributed to its chronic counterpart.

Now that we've covered that, let's talk about the different types of colitis in dogs.

What are the types of colitis in dogs?

Interestingly, the term "colitis in dogs" is very broad and can refer to different types of canine colitis, particularly eosinophilic colitis, granulomatous colitis, lymphoplasmacytic colitis, as well as neutrophilic colitis.

Although the symptoms may be the same, what distinguishes one from the other is the type of cell that reaches the colon and triggers inflammation.

Let's examine each in detail below:

Eosinophilic colitis

Considered a rarer form of colitis in dogs, eosinophilic colitis is characterized by the sudden influx of white blood cells called eosinophils into and around the colon.

Although eosinophils inherently trap parasites, bacteria, and tiny foreign substances that infiltrate the gastrointestinal tract, having too many at once tends to cause irritation and inflammation in the colon.

Granulomatous colitis

Also known as Crohn's disease, granulomatous colitis occurs when shallow but scattered ulcers develop in the intestines and colon. These ulcers tend to deepen over time, leading to scarring and hardening of the intestine.

If these ulcers are left untreated or neglected, they can potentially lead to infection of nearby organs such as the rectum, cecum, and anal canal. Additionally, granulomatous colitis in dogs is considered an incurable type of canine colitis.

Lymphoplasmacytic colitis

Regarding lymphoplasmacytic colitis, it occurs when the colonic epithelium experiences an unexpected accumulation of lymphocytes.

Although lymphoplasmacytic colitis causes irritation of the colon, it will not lead to bleeding.

Lymphoplasmacytic colitis is also considered a type of canine colitis that is incurable.

Neutrophilic colitis

Neutrophilic colitis is characterized by the accumulation or infiltration of white blood cells called neutrophils in the colon.

Neutrophils represent the largest number of white blood cells in your dog's body and are primarily responsible for capturing and digesting unwanted visitors like fungi, bacteria, and parasites, which can cause disease.

However, like other types of colitis, excessive numbers of neutrophils in the colon lead to irritation and inflammation.

At this point in our discussion, let me walk you through the possible causes of colitis in dogs.

What causes colitis in dogs?

Although there is no exact cause of canine colitis yet determined, the following factors are considered possible triggers of this health problem:

Immune reaction to food allergies

When your dog's body is allergic to a certain type of food , such as chicken or dairy, his immune system "flags" it so his white blood cells spring into action every time he ingests it.

Although eliminating bacteria, parasites, viruses, as well as compounds and chemicals that cause allergic reactions is the primary function of your dog's immune system, there will be times when this natural defense mechanism goes into overdrive.

And when this happens, your pet's colon and small intestine can become irritated and eventually inflamed, leading to colitis.

Trauma or injury that may have affected the colon

Significant trauma or injury, particularly affecting the abdominal area, can cause more than just scratches, cuts, and other superficial consequences.

If the damage is quite severe, it can also trigger an overreaction in your dog's immune system.

This can potentially cause irritation of the intestines and have a detrimental effect on the colon, leading to the development of colitis, if it persists over a period of a few days.

Bacterial, viral or parasitic infection

In its simplest form, various types of white blood cells make up your dog's immune defense system.

Besides trapping and eliminating unwanted visitors like bacteria, viruses and parasites, they also ensure that infections caused by them are either immediately stopped or prevented altogether.

However, sometimes your dog's immune system sends out too many of these white blood cells. This can have a rather counterproductive effect on the part of the body they are trying to protect.

And if these unwanted visitors have somehow managed to make their way into the colon during these excess white blood cells, it is very likely that your dog could be prone to colitis.

Autoimmune disorders

An autoimmune disorder is characterized by the inability of a dog's immune system to distinguish between cells it should protect and those it should eliminate.

An example of this condition is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). When this condition occurs, your pet's immune system will target even healthy cells in their body. And your dog could be at risk for colitis if this confusion occurs in their colon.

Ingestion of foreign objects

As a temporary storage area for fecal matter, the colon can be prone to various problems when foreign objects like pieces of plastic, pencils, and small stones that cannot be easily digested—or at all—end up inside.

When this happens, the colon becomes overworked and can become vulnerable to irritation and inflammation, which can lead to a case of colitis in some cases.

Excessive stress and anxiety

It may seem surprising, but your four-legged friend's hormones that regulate certain physiological functions (e.g., gastrin, motilin, and cholecystokinin) can become uncontrollable when experiencing excessive levels of stress and anxiety.

And one of these bodily functions includes digestion and bowel movement, in which the colon plays a key role.

If this rise or fall in hormones persists, it could lead to disruption of the overall digestive process and may trigger some side effects such as stomach upset, constipation, as well as colitis.

Being in close and constant contact with a dog suffering from colitis

Interestingly, colitis in dogs can be transmitted from one dog to another, especially when the cause is triggered by a bacterial or viral infection.

It is therefore likely that if a dog suffering from this disease is in close contact with another healthy dog ​​on a regular basis, the latter could be prone to developing the disease sooner or later.

However, it is important to note that canine colitis triggered by an autoimmune disorder is not transmissible in any way.

Now that we've finished listing the possible causes of colitis in dogs, let's move on to the symptoms of this disease to watch out for.

Symptoms of Colitis in Dogs

Here are the signs of canine colitis to note:

• Sudden loss of appetite
• Unexpected change in eating habits
• Frequent flatulence
• Often feels his stomach
• Weakness and lack of interest in the game
• Visible pain when moving bowels due to constipation
• Its feces can be liquid and sometimes streaked with blood
• Sudden weight loss

If you notice your canine family member exhibiting three (3) or more of these signs of colitis in dogs, there is a good chance they have this disease.

It is crucial to give him immediate and proper treatment and care to prevent this health problem from getting worse.

And while we're on the subject, let's discuss the natural remedies you can choose to properly treat this health problem.

How to Naturally Treat Colitis in Dogs

Contrary to popular belief, "conventional" medications are not your only option to support your pet when going through canine colitis.

Here are the natural treatments and remedies you should include in your dog home care checklist if this health issue arises:

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar helps keep colon inflammation at bay.

Medical News Today reports that apple cider vinegar contains chemicals and natural compounds that have the ability to suppress "proteins and molecular processes that trigger inflammation" in the colon.

To use apple cider vinegar to treat colitis in dogs, carefully mix half a teaspoon of it into their water. It's important to remember to keep their water bowl full during this application so the acidity isn't too strong for your pet.

Give this mixture to your dog intermittently and switch to plain water as soon as he finishes it.

Also, be sure not to give your pet undiluted apple cider vinegar as it is highly acidic and can cause stomach or digestive problems.

Calendula

Calendula helps strengthen the colon's resilience against oxidative stress.

Also known as marigold, holligold, ruddles, and gold bloom, the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) shares that calendula is abundant in triterpenoids, saponins, and flavonoids that act as barriers for tissues against oxidative stress.

Research shows that when these organic chemicals and compounds reach the colon, they lead to “the formation of superoxide dismutase and catalase,” which help keep inflammation at bay.

To use calendula to treat colitis in dogs, steep a few dried flowers in hot water for at least ten (10) minutes until the liquid turns an amber color.

Allow the mixture to cool completely. You can use this calendula tea as a water substitute for your canine family member.

For an alternative application, you can soak dried calendula flowers in cold water overnight to infuse them with its triterpenoids, saponins, and flavonoids. Strain the mixture thoroughly and give it to your dog as a healthy drink to quench their thirst.

Chamomile

Chamomile helps maintain a healthy gastrointestinal system.

According to another study published in the NCBI, chamomile tea has been seen to have a wide range of beneficial effects against oxidative stress that can trigger the onset of inflammation, including gastrointestinal disorders and ulcerative colitis.

The sponsors of the study also pointed out that chamomile has shown hepatoprotective, antidepressant, antidiarrheal, antimicrobial, and even antidiabetic effects.

To use chamomile to treat colitis in dogs, steep a handful of its dried flowers in hot water for at least fifteen (15) minutes to extract its beneficial components. Allow the tea to cool completely before giving it to your pet.

You can give this mixture to your dog as a water substitute or as a natural colon cleanser and relaxant after meals. Be sure to refrigerate the unused portion to prevent the organic chemicals and compounds it contains from breaking down.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is both a refreshing treat and a healthy food for the colon.

According to another NCBI study, fenugreek contains a type of saponin called diosgenin, which has been found to "suppress the intestinal allergic reaction induced by ovalbumin," as well as inhibit the onset of intestinal inflammation and reduce the frequency of diarrhea.

To use fenugreek to treat colitis in dogs, soak half a teaspoon of its seeds in water overnight and mix them into your canine family member's food.

You can also use dried fenugreek seeds directly, but they might be a little stringy for your pet to chew.

Ginger

Ginger promotes better colon function and health.

According to BioMedCentral (BMC) , ginger can significantly alleviate the adverse effects of colitis by improving the overall well-being of the colon and its resilience against substances that can interfere with its digestive functions.

To use ginger to treat colitis in dogs, peel and grate a thumb-sized piece and add it directly to your pet's food. Be sure to mix everything well before serving to prevent your pet from eating the grated ginger directly, which can be a bit spicy.

As an alternative application, you can also infuse a few slices of ginger in hot water for a few minutes and give it to your dog as a water substitute once cooled.

Peppermint

Peppermint helps relieve gastrointestinal pain and discomfort.

A study published in the NCBI highlighted that natural oils extracted from peppermint can help relieve pain and discomfort caused by symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and colitis.

To use peppermint to treat colitis in dogs, crush the leaves in a container and let them soak in warm water for at least ten (10) minutes. Give your canine family member a teaspoon of this liquid after each meal.

You can also use the leaves to make peppermint tea and give it to your pet as a water substitute.

However, under no circumstances should you give your pet peppermint essential oil as it can be toxic to its body.

Saffron

Saffron is a proven colitis fighter.

Another NCBI study reveals that saffron contains an abundance of a natural chemical called crocin, which significantly reduces the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inducible inflammatory enzymes like TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 when absorbed into the body.

Researchers have even pointed out that in addition to preventing colitis, the crocin present in saffron can also be used to alleviate colon carcinogenesis associated with inflammation.

To use saffron to treat colitis in dogs, add a very small amount of this fragrant spice to your pet's food.

Keep in mind that a little saffron goes a long way, so you don't need to use a lot for this application.

Slippery elm bark

Slippery elm bark soothes the gastrointestinal tract.

According to the Mount Sinai Medical Library, the inner bark of slippery elm contains a natural substance called mucilage that has the ability to lubricate the digestive tract when ingested with water.

This lubricating action not only helps stimulate the nerve endings in the gastrointestinal tract so it is not as vulnerable to inflammation, but also helps promote mucus secretion to relieve any pain or discomfort that may arise during colitis.

To use slippery elm bark to treat colitis in dogs, finely grind the inner bark and let it steep in cool water for at least ten (10) minutes.

You can then mix a small amount of this hydrated bark with your pet's food or use the infused water as a substitute for their regular water.

Turmeric

Turmeric helps speed up recovery from colitis.

The NCBI reports that the curcumin content of turmeric has a significant therapeutic effect when administered during the onset of colitis. Curcumin has also been shown to help eliminate common symptoms of canine colitis, such as constipation and stomach upset.

To use turmeric to treat colitis in dogs, peel and grate a thumb-sized amount of turmeric and let it steep in hot water for at least ten (10) minutes. When the mixture has cooled completely, you can use it as a water substitute for your dog.

As an alternative application, you can thinly slice strips of turmeric and add it to your canine family member's food. Be sure to mix well, as the spiciness of turmeric can be a little too intense for your pet if consumed directly.

Water therapy

Water therapy is a hassle-free approach to getting rid of colitis.

As reported by the NCBI, researchers point to "effective" results when individuals with colitis increased their water intake over a three-week period.

They also add that this could be due to the extra lubrication in the gut that helped inhibit inflammatory risks while avoiding constipation.

To use water to treat colitis in dogs, increase your canine family member's daily water intake by at least half. It's normal for them to urinate more frequently during this time.

Yogurt

Yogurt has gastrointestinal anti-inflammatory benefits.

Another NCBI study highlighted that in addition to the probiotic benefits, yogurt also helped suppress TNF-α and IL-12-producing monocytes that can worsen colitis symptoms, especially in its early stages.

To use yogurt to treat colitis in dogs, add a teaspoon of this natural probiotic to your pet's meals. It's important to remember that you should only use plain yogurt for this application.

And now I'm going to reveal my favorite natural product to support your faithful companion if he or she is suffering from colitis in dogs.

A high-quality natural product to discover during colitis in dogs

GastroAnimo is a high-quality natural product that is designed to not only support your pet's gastric health, but also promote a healthy digestive system to keep gastrointestinal problems like colitis in dogs at bay.


With premium ingredients such as deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), pistacia lentiscus, condurango, calendula, and plantain, GastroAnimo is also made with a gentle, holistic approach to help give your pet the quality of life they truly deserve.

To use GastroAnimo to support your canine family member during colitis in dogs, simply open a single capsule and mix it with their food or water.

Now, let's tackle the frequently asked questions or FAQs about colitis in dogs.

FAQs about colitis in dogs

How long does it take for a dog to recover from colitis?

The time it takes for a dog to recover from colitis depends greatly on whether the colitis is classified as short-term or chronic.

If your canine family member suffers from short-term colitis, recovery typically takes about three (3) days to a week. The chances of recurrence are also quite low.

On the other hand, if your dog has chronic colitis, his symptoms may persist for up to two (2) weeks and it is possible that they may return after some time.

Is colitis in dogs fatal?

The short answer is that it depends on the classification of colitis your dog has.

Although short-term colitis in dogs can cause some pain and discomfort for your four-legged friend, its side effects usually disappear after a few days.

However, the situation is different when it comes to chronic colitis in dogs. In addition to typically lasting up to two (2) weeks, it is very likely that some cases of chronic canine colitis can progress to severe cases of diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Additionally, there is even a risk that a dog suffering from chronic colitis is predisposed to developing peritonitis, sepsis, as well as long-term organ failure if this condition is not treated or properly monitored.

How long can dogs live with colitis?

Dogs that suffer from short-term colitis will have no problem returning to their normal lives after a few days, as the condition rarely lasts more than a week.

The adverse effects of short-term colitis in dogs are also not as persistent and widespread as those of its chronic counterpart.

However, a dog suffering from chronic colitis may be vulnerable to significantly pervasive symptoms that can progress to more serious health problems sooner or later without proper care and attention.

It is crucial to note that in addition to being incurable, dogs with chronic colitis also require constant monitoring and treatment due to the recurring nature of this condition.

Can colitis in dogs cause breathing problems?

Although colitis in dogs is primarily a condition related to the gastrointestinal tract, your canine family member may experience respiratory problems when suffering from this disease.

Bloating and gas, which can be symptoms of colitis in dogs, can sometimes make breathing difficult. However, this is not a serious problem.

Is colitis painful for dogs?

The short answer is yes. Your furry friend will experience varying levels of pain and discomfort during canine colitis, caused by symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, gas, and other side effects associated with this condition.

This is why it is essential to give your dog immediate and appropriate support when canine colitis strikes - such as administering GastroAnimo - to help resolve the problem early on and avoid the more problematic side effects of this condition.

Conclusion

So that concludes our discussion on colitis in dogs. I hope the information shared has been helpful and informative in helping you keep your faithful companion happy and healthy through natural means.

If you're concerned that your pet may be suffering from a health issue, our Free Pet Health Referral can help. In addition to receiving advice and recommendations from our Natural Health Advisors, they'll also guide you through the products and treatment options that best suit your pet's health needs.