Home » Diseases » In dogs » Gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer (stomach and intestinal ulcers)

Gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer (stomach and intestinal ulcers) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of disease: Abdomen/pelvis

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours

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

You can find an interesting overview of 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. problems in dogs, supplemented with information on the intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. microbiome and the importance of probiotics, here: https://petsvetcheck.de/fachbeitrag/magen-darm-probleme-beim-hund/

Definition

A gastric ulcerAn ulcer is an open wound or erosion of the skin or mucous membrane that often heals poorly and can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections and chronic inflammatory conditions. or duodenal ulcerAn ulcer is an open wound or erosion of the skin or mucous membrane that often heals poorly and can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections and chronic inflammatory conditions. in dogs is a localized defect or erosion in the stomach lining or the lining of the duodenumThe duodenum is the first part of the small intestine directly after the stomach. It plays an important role in digestion, as digestive juices from the pancreas and gallbladder act here., caused by an imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. between mucosal protective factors and damaging influences.

The most important facts at a glance

Gastric and duodenal ulcers, i.e., stomach and intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. ulcers in dogs, develop when the protective mucus layer of the stomach lining is disrupted, making the lining susceptible to aggressive stomach acid. Common causes include the administration of 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. (NSAIDNSAID stands for "Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs." These medications are used to reduce inflammatory conditions, pain, and fever. In dogs and cats, NSAIDs must be used with caution, as they can have side effects, especially on the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys.), which impair mucosal integrity. 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., 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. diseases such as kidney insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency., and infections with 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. like Helicobacter can also cause ulcers. Symptoms include bloody Vomiting, 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, Weight loss, and loss of appetite.

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 medical 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., clinical examination, and possibly 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. to directly visualize the ulcers. 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. aims to eliminate the cause and alleviate symptoms, for example, by discontinuing NSAIDNSAID stands for "Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs." These medications are used to reduce inflammatory conditions, pain, and fever. In dogs and cats, NSAIDs must be used with caution, as they can have side effects, especially on the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys. and using proton pump inhibitors. Intravenous fluid 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 a special diet may also be 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 favorable if the cause is treated, but intensive care may be needed for severe complications. For preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring., uncontrolled NSAIDNSAID stands for "Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs." These medications are used to reduce inflammatory conditions, pain, and fever. In dogs and cats, NSAIDs must be used with caution, as they can have side effects, especially on the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys. use should be avoided, and regular veterinary check-ups are important.

Research focuses on understanding the underlying mechanisms and developing new 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. and 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. methods. A special focus is on the role of 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., nutrition, and the microbiome. Innovative approaches such as personalized therapies, based on genetic and microbial profiles, could further improve 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 prevent relapses in the future.

Causes

The stomach lining and the lining of the duodenum are covered with a protective mucus layer that shields them from aggressive stomach acid and digestive enzymesEnzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate specific chemical reactions in the body without being consumed. They play a crucial role in virtually all physiological processes.. This mucus layer is supported by bicarbonate secretion, which neutralizes acidity. A disruption of this protective mechanism can lead to the formation of ulcers.

One of the most common causes of stomach and intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. ulcers in dogs is the administration of 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. (NSAIDNSAID stands for "Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs." These medications are used to reduce inflammatory conditions, pain, and fever. In dogs and cats, NSAIDs must be used with caution, as they can have side effects, especially on the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys.). These medications inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which play an important role in maintaining mucosal integrity.

Further causes can include 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., 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. diseases such as kidney insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency., liver diseases, and tumors, which make the stomach lining more susceptible to damage. Infections with 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. like Helicobacter are other possible causes, although their role in dogs is less clear than in humans.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of stomach and intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. ulcers in dogs can vary, but are often non-specific. Common signs include Vomiting, which may contain blood, and dark, tarry stools, indicating GI tract bleeding.

Loss of appetite, Weight loss, and lethargy are also common symptoms. 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, such as tucking their abdomenThe abdomen, also known as the abdominal cavity, is the part of the body located between the rib cage and the pelvis. It houses several important organs, including the stomach, liver, kidneys, intestines, and spleen. or crying when 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. area is touched.

In severe cases, anemia due to chronic Blood loss can occur, which may manifest as pale mucous membranes and weakness.

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 stomach and intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. ulcers in dogs begins with a thorough medical 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 clinical examination. The veterinarian will ask about the medication 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., especially NSAIDNSAID stands for "Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs." These medications are used to reduce inflammatory conditions, pain, and fever. In dogs and cats, NSAIDs must be used with caution, as they can have side effects, especially on the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys. use, and look for signs of blood in Vomiting or stool.

Imaging techniques such as X-rays and 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. can help rule out other digestive tract diseases, but often do not provide direct evidence of ulcers. 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. is the most accurate method to diagnose ulcers, as it allows direct visualization and, if necessary, 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 affected mucous membrane.

Blood tests can reveal anemia or other co-existing conditions that may be associated with ulcers.

Therapy

The therapy for stomach and intestinal ulcers in dogs involves eliminating the underlying causes and alleviating the symptoms. If NSAIDNSAID stands for "Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs." These medications are used to reduce inflammatory conditions, pain, and fever. In dogs and cats, NSAIDs must be used with caution, as they can have side effects, especially on the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys. are the cause, it is crucial to stop administering these medications immediately.

Medications such as proton pump inhibitors (e.g. omeprazole) or H2 receptor antagonists (e.g. ranitidine) can help reduce gastric acid secretion and promote ulcerAn ulcer is an open wound or erosion of the skin or mucous membrane that often heals poorly and can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections and chronic inflammatory conditions. healing.

In severe cases, intravenous fluid 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 to correct dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse. and electrolyte imbalances. A special, easily digestible diet can also help protect the mucous membrane.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with stomach and intestinal ulcers depends on the severity and cause of the condition. In most cases, 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 favorable if the underlying cause is identified and treated, and the ulcers are detected early.

In cases of complications such as perforationA perforation is a rupture or hole in the wall of a hollow organ, such as the gastrointestinal tract or bladder, which can lead to the release of contents into the body and severe infection. Perforations are Emergencies that require rapid veterinary intervention in dogs and cats. or severe bleeding, 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 more guarded, and intensive medical care may be required.

Prevention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of stomach and intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. ulcers in dogs focuses on avoiding the underlying causes. In particular, the long-term and uncontrolled use of 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. should be avoided.

Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring of dogs with known risk factors such as 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. diseases can help ensure early detection and 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. of ulcers.

A balanced diet and 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. management can also help reduce the risk of ulcer formation.

Outlook on current research

In current research on stomach and intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. ulcers in dogs, also known as gastric ulcerAn ulcer is an open wound or erosion of the skin or mucous membrane that often heals poorly and can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections and chronic inflammatory conditions. and duodenal ulcerAn ulcer is an open wound or erosion of the skin or mucous membrane that often heals poorly and can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections and chronic inflammatory conditions., there are several promising approaches aimed at improving the causes, diagnosis methods, and 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. strategies for these conditions. A key focus is on understanding the underlying mechanisms that lead to the formation of ulcers. Researchers are particularly investigating the role of 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., nutrition, and genetic factors that could increase the likelihood of a dog developing ulcers. The importance of the microbiome in the digestive tract is also increasingly recognized, as there is evidence that an imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. of intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. 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. could contribute to the development of ulcers.

Another significant research area is the development and improvement of 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. methods. Traditionally, stomach and intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. ulcers are diagnosed through a combination of clinical symptoms, blood tests, and imaging techniques such as 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. or 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.. Researchers are working to develop less invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. and more accurate diagnostic tools that enable earlier and more precise detection of ulcers. A promising approach is the investigation of biomarkers in blood or urine that could specifically indicate the presence of ulcers.

Regarding the 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. of stomach and intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. ulcers in dogs, there are also advances. While classic treatments such as the administration of proton pump inhibitors and H2 receptor antagonists continue to play an important role, research is increasingly focused on developing new medications specifically aimed at healing ulcers. In addition, there are studies on alternative 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. methods, such as the use of probiotics to restore the balance of the intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. flora, or the application of herbal remedies that have anti-inflammatory and healing-promoting properties.

An exciting development is also the use of personalized 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. approaches based on the individual genetic and microbial profiles of dogs. By analyzing genetic predispositions and specific patterns in the microbiome, tailored 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. plans could be developed in the future, enabling more effective and targeted 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.. Such approaches could not only improve the healing rate but also reduce the risk of relapses.

In summary, research into stomach and intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. ulcers in dogs is dynamic and promising. The combination of a better understanding of the causes, improved 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. methods, and innovative 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. strategies could lead to a significant improvement in the quality of life for affected dogs in the near future. While many of these research approaches are still in their early stages, there is hope that advancing science will ultimately lead to better outcomes for affected dogs and their owners.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What are the most common symptoms of gastric and duodenal ulcers in dogs?

Common symptoms can include Vomiting, loss of appetite, Weight loss, Abdominal pain, dark or bloody stools, and general lethargy. It is important to consult a veterinarian if these symptoms occur. -

How are gastric and duodenal ulcers diagnosed in dogs?

Diagnosis can be made through a combination of clinical symptoms, blood tests, ultrasound, or endoscopy. The veterinarian will choose the best method based on the dog's symptoms and condition. -

Can all dog breeds develop gastric and duodenal ulcers?

Yes, generally all dog breeds can be affected, but some breeds may be more susceptible due to genetic predisposition. Factors such as stress and nutrition also play a role. -

What role does stress play in the development of ulcers?

Stress can increase the production of stomach acid, thereby damaging the lining of the stomach and intestines, which can lead to the formation of ulcers. Stress management can be part of prevention. -

Are there special diets that can help prevent or treat ulcers?

Yes, an easily digestible, balanced diet can help relieve the gastrointestinal tract and promote healing. Your veterinarian can provide specific dietary recommendations based on your dog's needs. -

Are gastric and duodenal ulcers curable in dogs?

Yes, with proper therapy and care, many dogs can fully recover from ulcers. Therapy usually includes medication and dietary adjustments. -

How long does it take for gastric and duodenal ulcers to heal in dogs?

The healing time can vary, often taking several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the ulcer and the response to therapy. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor healing progress. -

Can gastric and duodenal ulcers recur in dogs?

Yes, there is a possibility of relapse, especially if the triggering factors are not addressed. Long-term monitoring and lifestyle adjustments can help prevent relapses. -

Are medications the only treatment option for gastric and duodenal ulcers in dogs?

In addition to medication, dietary measures, stress management, and in some cases, alternative healing methods such as probiotics or herbal remedies can be part of the therapy. It is important to discuss all options with your veterinarian. -

Can I take preventive measures to prevent gastric and duodenal ulcers in my dog?

Yes, by providing a low-stress environment, offering a balanced diet, and arranging regular veterinary check-ups, you can reduce the risk of ulcers. Avoiding medications or foods that could irritate the stomach lining can also be helpful.