Dogs, like humans, can experience a variety of bodily functions that may seem unusual, and one such phenomenon is burping. While we often associate burping with humans, dogs are also prone to releasing gas from their stomachs in the form of belches. These burps, while generally harmless, can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue or, possibly, anxiety. Additionally, some burps may have an unpleasant odor, which raises the questions: What causes dog burps, and what makes them smell?
Dogs may burp due to:
- Air swallowed while eating or drinking
- Air swallowed when they are excited or anxious
- Eating or drinking too quickly
- Being prone to bloat
- Battling diseases like GERD
- Digestive issues, like diarrhea, vomiting, or a lack of appetite
Why Does My Dog Burp so Much?
Burping in dogs is a natural response to air that is swallowed during eating and drinking. Just like people, dogs ingest air as they eat, drink, exercise, or even when they are excited or nervous. This air builds up in the stomach and needs to be released.
Dogs that eat or drink too quickly are more likely to swallow excess air. This is particularly common with fast eaters, as in dogs that gulp down their food. Slow feeders, puzzle bowls, or spreading your dog’s food out on a flat surface can help slow them down and reduce the amount of air they swallow.
Additionally, when dogs eat or drink large qualities of food or water in a short time, their stomach can become distended, leading to burping. This is especially common in large breeds or dog breeds prone to bloating. Be sure to monitor your dog’s food and water intake and avoid allowing them to consume too much at once.
If you notice issues, try offering smaller meals more frequently. Some foods can contribute to gas and bloating in the stomach as well, leading to more frequent burps. Diets high in fat, dairy, or fiber can ferment in the digestive tract and cause gas buildup.
Certain digestive issues or conditions may also cause your dog to burp more frequently. If burping is accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite, it is best to consult your veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment.
Smelly, Sulphur Dog Burps
While burping itself is a normal bodily function for dogs, smelly burps can sometimes indicate an underlying issue. The odor of your dog’s burps can vary depending on a variety of factors, including your dog’s diet and health status. Strong-smelling foods, like fish and certain types of proteins, can cause foul-smelling burps in dogs. Additionally, foods that are difficult to digest, like dairy and high-fat foods, can contribute to foul smelling gas.
An imbalance in your dog’s digestive system, known as dysbiosis, can be to blame for stinky burps. If your dog has an overgrowth of bad bacteria, it may result in the production of sulfur-containing gasses, which have a rotten egg odor. If you notice sulfur-smelling burps, probiotics can be used to help restore balance to your dog’s digestive tract. Work with your veterinarian to choose the right probiotic.
Dogs with GERD
Dogs with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or acid reflux, may have burps that smell like sour or rotten food. This happens when the stomach acid travels back into the esophagus, often causing discomfort and foul-smelling belches. If your dog has symptoms of GERD, such as burping, regurgitation, or vomiting, consult your veterinarians. They may recommend medications or dietary changes to alleviate the condition.
Burping is a normal and common occurrence for dogs, especially after mealtimes. It is usually a harmless way for dogs to expel air from their stomach. However, persistent or excessively smelly burps may indicate an issue that requires attention. If your dog’s burping is frequent, accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, bloating, or other signs of discomfort, consult your veterinarian.
