This subject may make you laugh, but expelling gas is a natural order of life. It’s normal for human beings and canines to pass gas daily. Recent studies show that the average person typically passes gas anywhere from five to fifteen times a day. However, there aren’t any specific statistics for dogs.
Passing gas is okay, but you may get worried when your dog develops a sudden case of bad gas.
What should you do?
This guide will break down the typical causes of excess gas, and it will cover some sound solutions to this smelly problem.
Three Common Causes of Excessive Gas in Dogs
Something remarkable happens when your dog eats food. The food travels through the gastrointestinal track. Bacteria break down the food with pure ease.
In some cases, the process will produce an unpleasant odor. On other occasions, the food will pass through the gastrointestinal track without incident.
If you notice that your beloved canine is having a gas problem, you should pay close attention to their behavior.
1. Foods
Beans
High-fiber foods can cause a surplus of gas in dogs. This includes chickpeas, soybeans, etc. This is one of the main reasons why some dog owners are not fond of giving their dogs beans.
High-fiber foods
It’s imperative to make certain that your dog gets an adequate amount of fiber. However, they should not consume too much fiber. If they do, your dog will be gassy.
High-fat foods
An experienced veterinarian will not hesitate to tell you that you should not give bacon to your dog. Bacon can cause extra gas and many other health problems.
Table scraps
It’s normal for dog owners to be tempted to give their dog table scraps. This sounds like a great idea, but table scraps can compromise your dog’s health. In this case, this will be your canine’s digestive system.
Dairy products
Contrary to popular belief, some breeds are lactose intolerant. If you are giving milk to your dog, it may be time for you to stop. We’re pretty sure your dog will appreciate your decision.
Cruciferous vegetables
It doesn’t take an Ivy School graduate to know that cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli can help you stay healthy. However, you should not give them to Fido. These veggies have isothiocyanates. These chemical compounds are well-known for causing gas in humans and dogs.
2. Swallowing an Excessive Amount of Air
How does your dog eat their food? Do they eat fast? There’s a strong possibility they are consuming too much air if they eat fast. This can cause excessive gas.
Some dog breeds have the tendency to consume too much air when they drink. When this happens, a bad case of gas can develop.
Did you know that breeds with short noses are prone to consuming too much air when eat and drink? The same is true for breeds with short skulls and flattened faces.
The following breeds have the tendency to consume too much air while eating and drinking: Pugs, French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Boston terriers, and boxers.
Dogs release swallowed air by passing gas. When they do, you may not smell anything since its air.
3. Medical Conditions
You should be concerned if your dog’s gas presents the following problems: Loss of appetite, vomiting, bloating, weight loss, or diarrhea. These medical issues can be a sign of a serious problem. You should get in touch with your dog’s veterinarian when these problems occur.
The following medical issues may lead to your beloved canine getting excessive gas.
- Food allergies
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Intestinal parasites
Let’s take a close look at six ways of reducing or preventing dog flatulence.
After reading the content above, you now have a good idea of what can cause excessive gas. It’s now time for us to focus on some solutions. They can remedy the situation if you take heed to them.
You should contact your veterinarian if you have further questions.
1. Keep Your Dog on a Balanced Diet
Giving your dog premium food with wholesome ingredients can curb excessive gas. If you give your dog cheap food loaded with processed ingredients, they will be prone to getting bad gas.
For instance, you should focus on reading labels before making your final purchase. The labels will uncover the ingredients in the dog food.
What should you look for? You should look for foods that have lamb, chicken, brown rice, and peas. Anything else is unacceptable.
It’s important to mention that healthy food does not have artificial flavors. We know this is a common thing these days.
You should also avoid the following: Thickening agents, artificial flavors, GMOs, and preservatives.
Gradually introduce your canine to their new diet. You don’t want to upset their digestive system. If you do, you will be dealing with a gassy dog.
Your vet may recommend a low-fiber diet. This type of diet will be easier on your dog’s system.
2. Smaller Meals
Besides changing your dog’s diet, you should break up their meals. Giving them smaller meals throughout the day will pay huge dividends for their health.
3. Slow Down Their Eating
If your dog eats too fast, buy a slow feeder dog bowl. This type of dog bowl will make it more difficult for your canine to eat fast. Eating slow will improve your dog’s digestion, and lower their bloating. In the end, there will be less gas.
4. Adding Probiotics to Your Dog’s Diet
Did you know that canine probiotics are good for your dog’s health? They will improve your dog’s immune system, digestive health, and well-being. When this comes into play, you can extend your dog’s life.
You can give your dog PetHonesty’s probiotic chews. This will help your dog stay healthy.
5. Physical Stimulation
Your beloved canine needs physical stimulation. Exercise will be good for their mind, body, and digestive system.
A 30-minute walk after a meal will help to eradicate your dog’s gas problem. Make sure you respect your dog’s physical limitations. Overexertion can open the door for more serious problems.
6. Refrain from Giving Them Human Food
It’s not unusual to see some dog owners give their dog a steak for dinner. This may seem like a good idea, but this could backfire on you. As I stated earlier, you should avoid giving your dog table scraps. They can cause excessive gas and many other problems.
Stick with high-quality dog food. This will help your dog stay healthy.
Don’t Freak Out if Your Dog Develops a Fast Case of Gas
It’s your responsibility to keep your four-legged friend happy and healthy. Please keep in mind that your pet will pass gas occasionally. This is the natural order of things.
You will not be able to stop your dog from passing gas. You must learn to accept this fact.
If your dog develops a bad case of gas, they may have a health issue. This could be bloating, diarrhea, etc. When you see something wrong, you should call the vet immediately. Paying close attention to your dog’s behavior will help you make the right decision.
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