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Flatulence in dogs - unpleasant and sometimes painful

Often it comes without warning and usually it stinks terribly: the dog fart. Flatulence occurs in our animals for different reasons and at all ages. Even though we find flatulence unpleasant for our nose, it is usually harmless. However, if it persists or there are other symptoms such as diarrhoea or vomiting this may indicate a serious illness, flatulence may be a case for the veterinary clinic.

Some gas formation during the digestive process is perfectly normal. The intestinal flora in the large intestine do a good job. However, if hard-to-digest substances become excessive, digestion becomes unbalanced. The excessive formation of methane gases, sulphur compounds and other fermentation and rotting gases must find a way out. 

Possible causes and triggers for flatulence in dogs

  • Poorly digestible food: the most common cause for flatulence. What was eaten could have been too high in fat, contained an incompatible protein, lactose or grains.
  • Breed-related: short-headed (brachycephalic) dogs such as Pugs, Boxers or Pekingese tend to swallow more air due to their short muzzles. 
  • Lack of exercise: too little exercise makes digestion slow. 
  • Age-related flatulence: the digestive tract of older dogs works a little slower. 
  • Side effect of medication: especially when being treated with antibiotics.
  • Parasite infestation: e.g. intestinal parasites such as giardia. 
  • Disease-related: e.g. gastrointestinal tract disease
  • Poisoning

My dog has flatulence - do I need to go to the vet?

Most flatulence is harmless and does not require veterinary attention. However, be sure to consult your veterinarian if your pet suffers from persistent flatulence or if other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, pain in the abdominal area, apathy or restlessness, fever or lack of appetite occur. 

In case of particularly acute and severe symptoms, you should always seek veterinary assistance. These could be signs of poisoning. This must also be done quickly if the dog's stomach is suddenly bloated approx. 1-2 hours after eating, the animal tries unsuccessfully to vomit and remains in the prayer position (front paws towards the ground, hind legs stretched upright). This indicates life-threatening gastric torsion. Follow the rule of thumb: If your dog is exhibiting unusual behaviour, it's time for a medical check-up. 

 

Remedy for flatulence

At the top of the list is the choice of a suitable, high-quality feed. Food that is preferably grain-free. For special support of the intestinal flora we recommend the DOG'S LOVE supplementary powder Vital Stomach. If your dog needs a light diet, our Intestinal Light Chicken food offersan optimal composition especially for the care of a sensitive gastrointestinal tract.

Furthermore, walks should always be sufficient and regular. Make sure that your pet does not eat any foreign excrement found on it (parasite infestation!). pet has the necessary peace and quiet when eating, feeding should take place in a relaxed environment that does not cause stress. If your dog nevertheless "inhales" his food without chewing, an anti-gulping bowl or a licking mat can help to curb their greed and thus the unnecessary gulping of air. As an alternative, you can feed your pet from your hand to achieve a calmer pace whilst eating. And most pets are happy about a little belly massage in between, regardless of whether they suffer from flatulence or not.