Things That Produce Gases In Dogs

Gas in dogs can be mild, but it can also lead to serious problems. Its symptoms are similar to those caused in humans: intestinal discomfort and unpleasant aromas.

In the most severe cases, a dog can die from a twisting stomach caused by gas. Normally the accumulation of gases in the stomach and intestine of the dog causes discomfort. Experts assure that normally the animal will expel air through its mouth and anus and, in the most severe cases, the abdomen will be very hard and it will suffer colic and stomach torsion.

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 stay longer than adequate in the intestine, which causes gas in the dog. Among all these foods, legumes stand out. Also carbohydrates and fiber can promote flatulence in the dog.

There are dogs that, as happens with people, have a tendency to eat too quickly, taking in a lot of air, which causes the accumulation of gases in the stomach. This problem tends to occur more frequently among puppies and flat dogs. For example, bulldogs do not bite very well, do not chew food much, and tend to accumulate gas.

Gases in dogs derived from diseases

When there are cardiac or pulmonary pathologies, they are factors that generate a high risk for flatulence.

In addition to all this, the dog’s lifestyle, especially in the case of old dogs, can be a risk factor for gas. For this reason, 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 diet that will help this end. Dogs with food intolerances can suffer gas more frequently, so in these animals it is even more important to provide a feed of the best quality, which will facilitate digestion.

The so-called “high-end” feeds have a proven quality and are characterized by high digestibility. In the case of dogs that eat food too quickly, such as puppies, it is also very positive to use adapted feeders, with restricted access. In this way, the dog will not be able to take too much food from a single meal.

With regard to flat dogs, or brachycephalics, in the market we will also find special foods. These are usually croquettes with a specific size and shape, to force them to chew for a longer time, and thus prevent them from swallowing air.

If our pet suffers from some type of intestinal parasite, respiratory conditions, liver problems, that is, pathologies that involve the formation of gases, it will be necessary to find specific treatments to stop 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 expelling gas through the mouth and anus, a dog may experience weight loss, vomiting, or diarrhea.

In the most serious pathology, the dog can suffer colic, pain and abdominal hardness, together with a dilation of the stomach (bloating) that could cause its death.

Normally, the gassy dog will be listless, inattentive and down. Faced with these discomforts, you will lean on the floor to seek relief in two ways: you will bring your abdomen closer to feel cold. They also tend to lie down with a curious posture, called Mohammedan, which consists of resting the front legs on the ground and keeping the hindquarters raised.

Some guidelines

• We should not feed our dog with products that are difficult for him to digest. Examples include broccoli, peas, dairy products like milk and cheese, beans, etc.
• As we have seen, the feed that we use in their diet is important that it has the highest quality. High-quality food costs more, but is made with more digestible ingredients.

• Beware of leftovers. Some foods we eat are beneficial for dogs; however, processed products and sugary snacks can upset our dog’s stomach and cause gas.
• If the food we supply is liquid, our friend will eat the food more slowly.
• Two meals a day are the ideal diet.