Boxer Colitis Symptoms

When the colon becomes inflamed, the result is painful colitis. The usual causes include fungal infections and whipworms, unless the dog is a boxer. For an unknown reason, boxers are so prone to having ulcerative colitis that the condition is often called "boxer ulcerative colitis." The boxer will have deep ulcers throughout the colon.

Time Frame

• According to Race Foster, DVM, boxer ulcerative colitis begins when the dog is younger than 3. It lasts for life.

First Symptoms

• Boxer ulcerative colitis usually begins with what appears to be constipation. The boxer will have trouble relieving itself and will pass small, often mucus-covered or blood-spotted stools. He will often yelp because of the pain.

Effects

• Race Foster, DVM notes that some boxers develop a very mild colitis that doesn't seem to bother them outside of constipation. But it still should be checked by a vet to prevent it from getting worse.

Severe Symptoms

• These include vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. The boxer must be taken to the vet at once because of dehydration and the chance of succumbing to an infection in the colon.

Prevention/Treatment

• The Boxer Handbook says this type of colitis runs in boxer families. Any boxer with ulcerative colitis should never be bred. Treatment includes antibiotics and being on a special bland diet.