Treating Dog Gas Problems

Dog gas is a problem for many owners. When a dog suffers from excess flatulence, it puts a strain on the relationship between you and your pet. The first step in treating gas in dogs is identifying the cause. Once you are able to determine what is causing your dog to have gas, you can take the steps needed for treatment.

Gas in Dogs

Gas in dogs is similar to gas in humans. Air becomes trapped in the body through swallowing or by the releasing of oxygen from food that is digesting. Approximately 99% of the gas your dog releases is odorless, however, the 1% that isn't can cause many problems for a dog and his owner.

Causes of Dog Gas Problems 

  1. Swallowing Air - If a dog eats too quickly, he will swallow air along with his food. These swallowed air bubbles are then released through burping or flatulence. If your dog eats fast, take the amount of food he would eat on a normal day and ration it into smaller portions and feed 4 to 5 times per day. This will lessen his natural instinct to eat quickly because he will not be as hungry. It will also provide for shorter meal times which equals less time for air to be swallowed.
  2. Diet - A dog who eats table scraps or other human food is prone to flatulence. Human food does not provide adequate nutrients for a dog. Human food may also be difficult for a dog's digestive system to break down causing stomach and intestinal upset and flatulence. If your dog's food is a generic brand, consider switching to a name brand or one that is specifically made for your dog's breed and size. Healthy dog foods are meat based. Avoid foods with corn as the main ingredient. Feeding your dog a nutritious and healthy diet is key in limiting gas.
  3. Allergies to Foods - A lesser known cause of flatulence is an allergic reaction to foods. Try switching your dog's food by mixing a small amount of the new food in with the old, gradually increasing the new and decreasing the old over a period of two weeks. Switching a dog's diet suddenly can cause vomiting and diarrhea so it is best to do it slowly. Pinpointing the exact ingredient your dog is allergic to is difficult, therefore, if you suspect your dog has food allergies, it is best to consult your veterinarian.

 Treating Gas Problems in Dogs

If adjusting your dog's diet and meal times doesn't help, there are products designed to help dog flatulence. Curtail drops can be added to food and help eliminate gas. Adding a small amount of plain yogurt to your dog's food can also be helpful. Many brands have specialized foods with probiotics that help reduce the amount of air that is released during digestion. Regular exercise is not only necessary for your dog's health, it can help with the amount of flatulence. Your local veterinarian may also offer advice on prescription medications for your dog.

 

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