Why Medications Can Affect a Dog's Stomach
Many painkillers, especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects but can also negatively impact the gastric mucosa. The same applies to certain antibiotics or corticosteroids.
The reason: These medications inhibit the body’s production of prostaglandins—messenger substances that are important for blood flow and the natural protective lining of the gastric mucosa. Without this protective lining, stomach acid can attack the stomach wall, leading to irritation, inflammation, or, in the worst case, gastric ulcers.
Dogs with sensitive digestion or those receiving long-term medication are particularly at risk. Therefore, it’s advisable to consider additional gastric protection for dogs when necessary.
Typical Signs of Stomach Problems in Dogs
Watch for the following symptoms in your dog, as they may indicate irritation or damage to the gastric mucosa:
Loss of appetite
Nausea or vomiting (possibly with blood)
Licking of the lips (a sign of nausea)
Smacking
Abdominal pain, restlessness, hunched posture
Black, tar-like stools (a sign of blood in the digestive tract)
If such symptoms occur, you should definitely seek veterinary advice, especially if your dog is also receiving medication.
When Is Gastric Protection for Dogs Advisable?
Gastric protection for dogs is particularly recommended when:
Painkillers are administered over several days or weeks
Your dog reacts sensitively to medications
Stomach problems (e.g., gastritis) are already known
Your veterinarian explicitly advises it
In these cases, targeted protection of the gastric mucosa can help prevent side effects or alleviate existing complaints.
Gastric Protectors for Dogs: What Options Are Available?
Veterinarians recommend certain gastric protection preparations in specific cases that bind stomach acid or protect the mucosa. These include:
Antacids (neutralise stomach acid)
Proton pump inhibitors (reduce acid production)
Mucosal protective preparations with buffering agents, such as Acid Protect Hund
The latter can be useful when preventive and gentle support is desired—for example, in dogs that regularly require medication or have a sensitive stomach.
Acid Protect Hund: Targeted Protection for the Gastric Mucosa
Acid Protect Hund is a complementary feed designed to support the gastrointestinal tract, especially during medication administration. It contains a combination of acid-binding and mucosal-protective substances that can help stabilise and regenerate the stomach.
Ideal for:
Administration of NSAIDs or antibiotics
Dogs with sensitive stomachs
Animals prone to gastritis or heartburn
The product is well-tolerated and easy to administer—a practical option for many dog owners to support the stomach.
⚠️ Note: Acid Protect Hund should not be administered concurrently with macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, tylosin). The aluminium compounds it contains can impair the absorption of these active substances. Please consult your veterinarian in this case.
Conclusion: Gastric Protection for Dogs—An Important Precaution When Administering Medication
Not every dog automatically requires gastric protection. However, with certain medications—especially painkillers—a concurrent protection of the gastric mucosa can be sensible to prevent complaints and maintain well-being.
Discuss your dog’s individual situation with your veterinarian. Additionally, a preparation like Acid Protect Hund can help relieve the stomach in a targeted manner.
Product Tip: Acid Protect Hund
✔ Mucosal protection & acid buffer
✔ Einfache Anwendung, gute Verträglichkeit
✔ Also suitable for sensitive stomachs
