Flatulence in dogs
Flatulence in dogs is a common problem. We all know that dogs do not smell like violets. Just think about how your dog smells after swimming or walking in the rain. Not the most pleasant scent. However, unpleasant odors in dogs do not only come from outside; sometimes an unpleasant smell can also come from within.
What are the causes of flatulence in dogs?
There are several possible causes of flatulence in dogs. We have listed them below:
· Poorly digestible food
Everyone knows that when people eat beans or onions, these foods can make them feel gassy. Both foods are not properly digested in the small intestine, after which they pass into the large intestine. Here, the healthy bacteria break down these undigested foods. The same applies to dogs. Dogs may particularly suffer from flatulence when they are fed cheaper, lower-quality dog food. This cheaper dog food often contains lower-quality ingredients. These ingredients are difficult to digest, causing partially digested food to enter the intestines; as a result, the intestinal flora can become unbalanced. To digest as much of the food as possible, the body produces extra gas, causing your dog to pass wind to get rid of it.
· Breathing difficulties in dogs
Another reason your dog may suffer from gas is that they are having difficulty breathing. Dogs with breathing difficulties may tend to swallow too much air. That air then leaves the body through burping or passing wind. This is particularly common in dogs with short snouts, such as Pekingese, French or English Bulldogs, and Pugs. In cases of severe breathing difficulties, surgery may be necessary for the dog's welfare.
· Eating too quickly
Dogs that gulp down their food often suffer considerably from flatulence. This is not surprising, since gulping causes them to swallow a great deal of air. Here too, the excess air leaves the body through burping or passing wind. To help your dog eat more slowly, you can try placing an upside-down bowl in the bottom of the food bowl, so your dog has to eat around it more carefully. You can also try a slow-feeder bowl. Do you have multiple dogs? Make sure they eat separately. This prevents dogs from rushing their meals because they hope to get some of the other dog's food or because they are afraid the other dog will take it from them.
· Food allergy
Does your dog suffer from itching, hair loss, or skin infections in addition to flatulence? Then a food allergy may be involved. With a food allergy, your dog may not tolerate certain ingredients in their food well. This can significantly upset the intestines, resulting in unpleasant flatulence. Do you suspect that your dog has a food allergy? Be sure to visit the veterinarian. They can use a test to determine exactly what your dog is reacting to. Another option is to try an elimination diet.
· Illness or old age
Older dogs often develop more difficult digestion, which naturally promotes gas. It is therefore not surprising that older dogs are more likely to suffer from flatulence. Another possibility is that your dog may have a health problem, such as an intestinal infection or a worm infestation. Have you noticed a sudden change in your dog's stool? (loose, unusual in color, especially foul-smelling, or containing blood) Then it is advisable to contact your veterinarian.
Can you take measures yourself to prevent flatulence in dogs?
Absolutely. Calm and regular mealtimes are very important. Therefore, preferably feed your dog at least 2 meals a day, at set times and in a calm environment. If your dog's body is still too active because you have just been out for a walk or played with them, wait until your dog has calmed down before feeding them. Too many stimuli, stress, or excitement can impair digestion considerably, resulting in flatulence. Trying a different, high-quality food may also help. Be sure to mix the new food with the old food first; otherwise, the change may happen too quickly for your dog's body. After about 10 days, you can feed your dog the new food exclusively. Please note: this depends on the type of food your dog is currently eating; read here how to switch foods properly
