Home » Diseases » In dogs » Ulcus Ventriculi, Ulcus Duodeni (Gastric and Duodenal Ulcers)

Ulcus Ventriculi, Ulcus Duodeni (Gastric and Duodenal Ulcers) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis

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

A Ulcus ventriculi or Ulcus duodeni in dogs is a localized defect or erosion in 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. or duodenal 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., 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 mucosa-protecting factors and damaging influences.

The most important facts at a glance

Ulcus ventriculi and Ulcus duodeni, i.e. gastric and duodenal ulcers in dogs, occur when the protective mucous layer of the gastric mucosa is disrupted, making 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. susceptible to aggressive gastric acid. Common causes include the 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. (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 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 failureRenal failure is a condition in which the kidneys can no longer adequately perform their function of filtering and excreting waste products from the blood. It can be acute or chronic and requires immediate medical treatment. 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. such as 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 anamnesis, 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. The treatment aims to eliminate the cause and alleviate the symptoms, such as discontinuing 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. 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 good if the cause is treated, but intensive care may be necessary in the event of severe complications. To prevent this, uncontrolled use of 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. should be avoided, and regular veterinary examinations are important.

Research focuses on understanding the underlying mechanisms and developing new diagnostic and treatment methods. A particular 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 treatment in the future and prevent relapses.

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. and duodenal 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. are covered with a protective mucus layer that protects them from aggressive gastric 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 the acidity. A disruption of this protective mechanism can lead to the formation of ulcers.

One of the most common causes of gastric and duodenal ulcers in dogs is the 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. (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.). These drugs inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which play an important role in maintaining mucosal integrity.

Other causes may 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 failureRenal failure is a condition in which the kidneys can no longer adequately perform their function of filtering and excreting waste products from the blood. It can be acute or chronic and requires immediate medical treatment., liver disease, and tumors that make 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. 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. such as 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 gastric and duodenal ulcers in dogs can vary but are often non-specific. Common signs include Vomiting, which may contain blood, and dark, tarry stools, which indicate 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 drawing in the 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 can occur due 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. Blood loss, which can 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 gastric and duodenal ulcers in dogs 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 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 the use of 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., and look for signs of blood in the vomit or stool.

Imaging procedures 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 diseases of the digestive tract, but often do not provide direct evidence of ulcers. 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. 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 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..

Blood tests can reveal anemia or other comorbidities that may be associated with ulcers.

Therapy

Treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcers in dogs involves eliminating the underlying causes and alleviating the symptoms. If 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. are the cause, it is crucial to stop taking 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 ulcer healing.

In severe cases, intravenous fluid therapy 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 gastric and duodenal ulcers depends on the severity and cause of the disease. 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 good if the underlying cause is identified and treated and the ulcers are detected in time.

In the event 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 gastric and duodenal ulcers in dogs focuses on avoiding the underlying causes. In particular, 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 examination 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 treatment 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 gastric and duodenal ulcers in dogs, also known as Ulcus ventriculi and Ulcus duodeni, there are several promising approaches aimed at improving the causes, diagnostic methods, and treatment strategies for these diseases. 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 being 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. in 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. bacteria could contribute to the development of ulcers.

Another significant area of research is the development and improvement of diagnostic methods. Traditionally, gastric and duodenal 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 allow earlier and more precise detection of ulcers. A promising approach is the exploration of biomarkers in blood or urine that could specifically indicate the presence of ulcers.

There is also progress in the treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcers in dogs. 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 the development of new drugs that specifically target the healing of ulcers. In addition, there are studies on alternative treatment 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 use 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 the dogs. By analyzing genetic predispositions and specific patterns in the microbiome, tailor-made treatment plans could be developed in the future that enable 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 relapse.

In summary, research on gastric and duodenal ulcers in dogs is dynamic and promising. The combination of a better understanding of the causes, improved diagnostic methods and innovative treatment strategies could lead to a significant improvement in the quality of life of affected dogs in the near future. While many of these research approaches are still in the 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 may include Vomiting, loss of appetite, Weight loss, Abdominal pain, dark or bloody stools, and general lethargy. It is important to see a veterinarian if these symptoms occur.
How are gastric and duodenal ulcers diagnosed in dogs? 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. can be made through a combination of clinical symptoms, 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., 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.. The veterinarian will choose the best method based on the symptoms and condition of the dog.
Can all dog breeds develop gastric and duodenal ulcers? Yes, in principle all dog breeds can be affected, but some breeds may be more susceptible due to 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.. Factors such as 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 nutrition also play a role.
What role does stress play in the development of ulcers? 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. can increase the production of gastric acid and thereby damage the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, which can lead to the formation of ulcers. 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 be part of preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring..
Are there special diets that can help prevent or treat ulcers? Yes, an easily digestible, balanced diet can help relieve the GI tract and promote healing. Your veterinarian can provide specific dietary suggestions based on your dog’s needs.
Are gastric and duodenal ulcers curable in dogs? Yes, with the right treatment and care, many dogs can fully recover from ulcers. Treatment usually includes medication and dietary adjustments.
How long does it take for gastric and duodenal ulcers to heal in dogs? Healing time can vary, often taking several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the 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 the response to treatment. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor the 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 medications, dietary measures, 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, and in some cases alternative healing methods such as probiotics or herbal remedies can be part of the treatment. It is important to discuss all options with the veterinarian.
Can I take preventive measures to prevent gastric and duodenal ulcers in my dog? Yes, by providing a low-stress environment, providing a balanced diet, and having regular veterinary examinations, you can reduce the risk of ulcers. Also, avoiding medications or foods that could irritate 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. can be helpful.

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/