Things That Produce Gas In Dogs

Gases in dogs can be mild, but they can also result in serious problems. Its symptoms are similar to those caused in humans: intestinal discomfort and unpleasant smells.

In the most severe cases, a dog can die from a stomach twist caused by the gases. Usually, the accumulation of gas in the dog’s stomach and intestines makes him uncomfortable. Experts assure that normally the animal will expel the air through the mouth and anus and, in the most serious cases, the abdomen will be very hard and the animal will suffer from cramps and stomach twist.

Causes of gas in dogs

In most cases, the origin of gases in dogs will be related to food, some pathologies and the lifestyle they lead.

Certain foods are associated with slow and heavy digestion, and this causes them to remain longer than adequate in the intestine, which causes gas in dogs. Among all these foods, vegetables stand out. Carbohydrates and fiber can also promote flatulence in dogs.

There are dogs that, like people, tend to eat very quickly, swallowing a lot of air, which causes them to accumulate gas in the stomach. This problem tends to occur more often among puppies and flat-nosed dogs. For example, bulldogs do not chew food much and tend to accumulate gas.

Disease-derived gases in dogs

When there are cardiac or pulmonary pathologies, these are factors that generate a high risk for a dog to suffer from flatulence.

In addition to all this, the dog’s lifestyle, especially if it is an older dog, can be a risk factor against gas. Therefore, physical activity is recommended for the furry, but never before or after eating.

How to prevent gas in dogs?

Flatulence in dogs can be prevented. There are many factors in the diet that will help to achieve this goal. Dogs with food intolerances can suffer from gas more frequently, so it is even more important for these animals to offer a better quality feed, which will facilitate digestion.

The so-called “upscale” rations have a contrasting quality and are characterized by great digestibility. In the case of dogs that ingest food very quickly, such as puppies, it is also very positive to use adapted eaters, with restricted access. This way, the dog will not be able to get too much food at once.

As for the flat-nosed or brachycephalic dogs, we will also find special foods on the market. Normally, they are rations with a specific size and shape, to force them to chew for a longer time, and prevent them from sucking in air.

If our pet suffers from any type of intestinal parasite, respiratory problems, liver disorders, that is, pathologies that involve the formation of gas, it will be necessary to find specific treatments to curb flatulence problems.

consequences of flatulence

The signs or symptoms that our friend suffers from flatulence vary according to the severity of each case. In addition to the expulsion of gas through the mouth and anus, a dog can experience weight loss, vomiting and diarrhea.

In the most serious case, the dog may suffer from cramps, pain and abdominal stiffness, along with a dilation of the stomach (bloat) that could cause its death.

Normally,  the dog with gas will be listless, inappetizing and weak. Faced with these discomforts, he will lean on the ground to seek relief in two ways: he will bring the abdomen closer to feel cold and, also, dogs usually lie down in a curious posture, called Mohammedan, which consists of supporting the front legs on the floor and keep the hindquarters raised.

Some advices

• We should not feed our dog with products that are difficult for him to digest. Examples include broccoli, peas, dairy products such as milk and cheese, beans, etc.

• As we have seen, it is important that the feed we use in your diet has the highest quality. High-quality food costs more, but is made with more digestible ingredients.
• Watch out for leftovers. Some foods we eat are beneficial to dogs; however, processed products and sugary snacks can upset our dog’s stomach and cause gas.
• If the food we offer is liquid, our friend will take the food more slowly.
• Two servings of food a day is the ideal diet.