Can dogs “fart” or get “gas”?

Our question this week was:

Dr. Debra – this sounds silly but I wondered if dogs can fart or pass gas? I swear my dog and can clear a room. I mean it can really stink.

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M.J.

Answer

Hi– thanks for your email. You wrote asking if dogs can pass gas or fart. The answer is yes, dogs can pass gas or fart. Another name for passing gas is called “Flatulence”.

Gas or air in the gastrointestinal tract when passed high (though the mouth) is called a burp and when passed through the rectum is called “Flatus”. Some dogs never pass gas and others do all the time (probably like people – some people do a lot and others don’t very often). And you are right – some dogs can really clear a room!

There are several causes for gas production in the gastrointestinal tract causing flatulence. Some pets swallow air, some foods can cause more gas production, as well as some diseases can cause more gas production.

If it is occasional and your dog is otherwise healthy – then I probably wouldn’t worry about it. If you notice the flatulence is associated with vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lack of appetite, weight loss or any other problems, then I’d recommend that you see your veterinarian.

Sometimes small frequent feedings can minimize flatulence as well as ensuring that the food is always fresh.

An article that might be helpful to you is Flatulence in Dogs.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

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