The excessive formation of gas in the pet's stomach is one of the most leading pet issues their owners face. Generally, the excessive accumulation of gas in the pet's stomach is known as flatulence.

5 reasons your dog has gas

The top five most common reasons for excessive dog gas accumulation/flatulence are listed below.

1.   Change in diet:

Change in diet (especially abruptly) is the most common cause of gas in dogs. Reduced-quality dog food, as well as milky or dairy products, and soy products can all cause substantial gas production during the digestive process in dogs.

2.   An excessive amount of gas might indicate a clinical state or a disease:

Unfortunately, there might be underlying causes for excess gas passage in dogs (some kind of GIT disease). Irritable Bowel Syndrome, enteritis, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, are just a few health issues that might cause your dog's stomach to wiggle and bubble. If you feel your pet/dog is suffering from one of these illnesses, consult your veterinarian immediately.

3.   A genetic issue:

Some dog breeds are predisposed to gassy digestion due to a hereditary tendency. In general, canines with flat faces, such as mastiffs, pugs, and boxers, tend to swallow excessive amounts of air when they are eating. The air that gets in has to be expelled, leading to gas accumulation. Some dogs can also develop food intolerances genetically. In these dogs, when a difficult-to-digest item is offered to the animal, the gas generation will increase significantly. Like us, our beloved dogs can develop lactose intolerance or gluten intolerance as they age, leading to flatulence.

4.   Gulping down food instantly: 

Gulping down food instantly may result in significant gas accumulation. Dogs are quite fond of their food. Too much love, on the other hand, might be harmful. Our canine pets tend to dig in their food bowls like there is no future, swallowing unchewed food and a lot of air. Try putting a toy in your pet's food dish or dividing the meal into smaller portions. This will help slow down the feeding process and prevent dog flatulence.

5.   Sedentary lifestyle:

Inactivity and excessive food consumption, dog flatulence will become more frequent if your dog has gained excessive body weight.

Symptoms of Gas in Dogs

These are the most common symptoms of gas in dogs:

• Exceptionally unpleasant odor
• Pain in the abdomen
• A gaseous expulsion from the mouth or the anus.
• The canine digestive tract makes audible rumbles.
• Swelling of the gastrointestinal tract as a result of gas accumulation

What is the best way to reduce gas in dogs?

Treatment is determined by the diagnosis and most often consists of a dietary modification. Among the diet recommendations is one that is highly digestible and appropriate fiber and fat. This minimizes the quantity of food that has to be digested and assimilated before it reaches the pet's intestinal tract. Carminatives (medications that alleviate flatulence) such as zinc acetate or probiotics may be used in conjunction with other forms of medical treatment. Feedings should be small and frequent in order to keep dogs that eat quickly or are hyperexcitable happy. Your veterinarian will establish a treatment plan that is tailored particularly to your pet's needs.

Prognosis for curing flatulence

When it comes to uncomplicated situations, most affected dogs respond favorably to dietary and lifestyle adjustments. Once the problematic dietary ingredients and products have been identified, it is important to avoid giving them to your furry companion.

Dr Sadia, DMV