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Chronic Gastritis (Chronic Gastric Mucosal Inflammation) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis in dogs is a long-lasting inflammation of the gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients., which can lead to digestive problems and other health issues.

The most important facts at a glance

Chronic gastritis in dogs is an inflammation of the gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. that can be caused by various factors. The most common causes include bacterial infections, especially with Helicobacter spp., as well as long-term use of medications such as NSAIDsNSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, a class of medications used to relieve pain, reduce inflammatory conditions, and lower fever without using steroidal agents. They are a commonly used pain reliever in veterinary medicine., food allergies, stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., and genetic predispositions. Symptoms include AbdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain, Vomiting with bloody contents, DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., and general weakness. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made through a combination of historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., physical examination, blood tests, and often an endoscopyEndoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light source and a camera at the end) to examine and visualize the inside of the body, often for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. with tissue sampling.

The treatment depends on the underlying cause and often involves dietary changes, medications to reduce gastric acid, and antibiotics if necessary. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is generally good, provided the disease is detected and treated early. Preventive measures include a balanced diet, stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. minimization, and regular veterinary check-ups. Research is investigating genetic and nutritional factors as well as the role of the microbiome in the disease. New drugs to modulate the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. and to reduce inflammatory conditions are also being explored to improve treatment options.

Causes

The gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. is a protective layer that protects the stomach from the aggressive effects of gastric acid. In chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis, this protective barrier is disrupted, leading to persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. inflammation. This inflammation can impair the function of the gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. and lead to various digestive disorders.

There are several causes of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis in dogs. A common cause is infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. with certain bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease., such as Helicobacter spp., which can attack the gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. and triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. inflammation. These bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease. are widespread in dogs and are often associated with chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis.

Other possible causes include long-term use of medications, especially non-steroidalNon-steroidal refers to medications or substances that are not steroids and often have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, or antipyretic effects. They are used in dogs and cats to treat Pain and Inflammatory conditions. anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. (NSAIDsNSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, a class of medications used to relieve pain, reduce inflammatory conditions, and lower fever without using steroidal agents. They are a commonly used pain reliever in veterinary medicine.), which can damage the gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients.. Food allergies or intolerances, stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., and other environmental factors can also contribute to the development of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis.

Autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus., in which the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells, can also play a role. In some dogs, a genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. can lead to the development of this disease, especially in certain breeds such as the German Shepherd and the Golden Retriever.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis in dogs can vary, but are often non-specific and can be confused with other diseases of the digestive tract. The most common symptoms include chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. or intermittentIntermittent refers to something that occurs at intervals or starts and stops temporarily, such as intermittent Pain that comes and goes. Vomiting, often accompanied by bile. This Vomiting can occur especially in the morning on an empty stomach.

Another common symptom is loss of appetite or a change in eating habits, which can lead to Weight loss. Some dogs show signs of AbdominalThe term “abdominal” refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain, which can be expressed by a curved spine or increased Licking of the abdominalThe term “abdominal” refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. region.

Occasionally, dogs with chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis may also show DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. or constipationConstipation is another word for infrequent bowel movements where the stool is hard and difficult to pass. In dogs and cats, this can be caused by diet, lack of exercise, or underlying health issues.. In severe cases, there may be blood in the vomit or stool, indicating more severe mucosal damage.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis usually begins with a thorough historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. and physical examination of the dog. The veterinarian will ask about the symptoms, eating habits, medication history, and possible environmental factors that may be contributing to the disease.

Blood tests can be performed to detect signs of inflammatory conditions or infections, as well as to assess the dog’s general health. Specific tests, such as the detection of Helicobacter spp. in the stomach, can also be considered.

A definitive diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. usually requires an endoscopyEndoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light source and a camera at the end) to examine and visualize the inside of the body, often for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes., in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis). into the stomach. This allows direct visualization of the gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. and the collection of tissue samples (biopsies) for histopathologicalHistopathological refers to the microscopic examination of tissue samples for the diagnosis of diseases. This technique is used to identify the specific characteristics of diseases at the cellular level in dogs and cats. examination. These biopsies help determine the extent of the inflammation and the presence of bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease. or other abnormalities.

Therapy

The treatment of chronic gastritis in dogs depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, a combination of dietary changes, drug therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., and, if necessary, treatment of infections or other underlying diseases is used.

A special diet can help soothe the gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. and relieve symptoms. This includes easily digestible foods that are low in fat and fiber. Hypoallergenic diets can be helpful if food allergies or intolerances are suspected.

Medications, such as proton pump inhibitors or H2 receptor antagonists, can be used to reduce gastric acid production and protect the mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients.. Antibiotic therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. may be necessary for Helicobacter infections.

In the case of autoimmune causes, immunosuppressants may be prescribed. If there is drug-induced gastritis, it is important to stop or adjust the intake of the responsible medications.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis is generally good if the disease is detected and treated early. Adjusting the diet and appropriate drug therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. can successfully control the symptoms in many cases.

In dogs that respond well to treatment, a long-term improvement in quality of life can be achieved. However, relapses can occur, especially if the underlying cause has not been completely resolved or the dog is exposed to stressors again.

In severe or complicated cases, especially if the disease is associated with other health problems, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. may be less favorable. Continuous care and monitoring by the veterinarian is crucial to monitor the dog’s condition and make adjustments in treatment.

Prevention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis in dogs involves several approaches. One of the most important measures is to provide a balanced and high-quality diet that meets the specific needs of the dog. Foods that contain known allergens or difficult-to-digest ingredients should be avoided.

Minimizing stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. through a stable and predictable environment can also help reduce the risk of gastritis. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to detect and treat health problems early.

When administering medications, especially NSAIDs, a veterinarian should always be consulted to monitor the dose and duration of treatment. Alternatives to potentially stomach-irritating medications should be considered if possible.

Another preventive step is regular deworming and parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. control, as some parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. infections can contribute to the development of gastritis. Ultimately, hygiene, especially in multi-dog households, also plays a role in reducing the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. with Helicobacter spp. and other pathogenic organisms.

Outlook on current research

Current research on ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Gastritis in dogs is intensively investigating which genetic and environmental factors influence this disease. Researchers are trying to identify specific genetic markers that could indicate which dogs have a higher risk of developing this disease. These findings could help in the future to develop preventive measures and promote the targeted breeding of dogs that are less susceptible to this disease.

Another significant area of research is the role of nutrition in the preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. and treatment of ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Gastritis. Scientists are examining how specific feed components, such as prebiotic fibers and certain proteins, can protect the gastric mucosa and reduce inflammatory reactions. Clinical trials are currently testing diets specifically designed for dogs with chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. stomach problems to evaluate their effectiveness and long-term effects.

Medical research is also investigating the effect of new drugs that can modulate the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. and specifically reduce inflammatory reactions in the stomach. These drugs could be an alternative or supplement to conventional treatments, which are often based on acid blockers and anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain.. The development of such targeted therapies could significantly improve the quality of life of affected dogs.

Another promising area of research is the study of the microbiome in the gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. tract of dogs. Researchers are analyzing how the balance of microorganisms in the gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. tract influences the development and course of ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Gastritis. InitialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. studies suggest that an imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. in the microbiome could promote inflammatory conditions, while restoring a healthy microbiome may have protective effects.

In the long term, research on ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Gastritis in dogs could also have implications for the treatment of similar diseases in humans. Since many mechanisms of inflammation and immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. are similar in dogs and humans, breakthroughs in veterinary medicine could also inspire new approaches in human medicine. The interdisciplinary exchange between human and veterinary medicine is therefore of crucial importance.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Gastritis in Dogs? ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis is a long-term inflammation of the gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. in dogs that can lead to symptoms such as Vomiting, DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., and loss of appetite. This condition can be triggered by various factors, including infections, allergies, and autoimmune reactions.
What are the most common symptoms? The most common symptoms include repeated Vomiting, decreased appetite, Weight loss, lethargy, and in some cases DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.. These symptoms can vary in severity and often occur in episodes.
How is the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. made? The diagnosis is usually made through a combination of clinical examination, blood tests, ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow., and sometimes an endoscopyEndoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light source and a camera at the end) to examine and visualize the inside of the body, often for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes., in which a biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. of the gastric mucosa is taken. These tests help to rule out other causes of the symptoms and confirm the inflammation.
What treatment options are there? The treatment may include dietary changes, the use of medications to reduce gastric acid, and anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain.. In some cases, antibiotics or special immunomodulatorsImmunomodulators are substances that affect the immune system by increasing or decreasing its activity. They are used in dogs and cats to treat autoimmune diseases, allergies, or as cancer therapy. may be needed to control the symptoms.
Can Chronic Gastritis be Cured? While the symptoms can often be well controlled with appropriate treatment, a complete cure is not always possible. Many dogs require lifelong treatment to prevent relapses.
How can diet help? A special diet that is easily digestible and low in fat can help relieve the symptoms. Some dogs benefit from hypoallergenic diets or diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammatory conditions.
Are there certain breeds that are more susceptible? Yes, certain breeds such as Boxers and German Shepherds appear to be at higher risk for developing ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Gastritis, possibly due to genetic predispositions.
Can stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. or environmental factors worsen the condition? Yes, stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. and environmental changes can worsen the symptoms. A stable, stress-free environment can help to better control the disease.
How does ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Gastritis affect the quality of life? Untreated, ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Gastritis can significantly impair a dog’s quality of life by leading to chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. discomfort, Pain, and a decreased appetite. However, with appropriate treatment, the quality of life can often be significantly improved.
What can I do to help my dog? Collaboration with your veterinarian is crucial. Adhere strictly to the treatment plan, monitor the symptoms, and adjust your dog’s diet to achieve the best possible control over the disease.

When to visit the vet?

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.