Why Is My Dog Gassy? Diet Fixes for Flatulence and Farts

To reduce your dog’s flatulence, a tailored approach to their diet is essential. Below are science-backed strategies to help.

Feeding your dog a diet made from high-quality, whole-food ingredients reduces the risk of gas. Look for foods with named protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, or beef, and avoid products with vague terms like “meat by-products.” Additionally, opt for diets that minimize fillers like corn, soy, and wheat. High-quality diets often contain fewer fermentable ingredients, which reduces gas production in the gut.

Certain ingredients are notorious for causing flatulence. Limit or eliminate:

• Cruciferous vegetables (e.g., cauliflower, cabbage, brussel sprouts)
• Legumes (e.g., lentils, chickpeas, soybeans)
• Dairy products

A study published in Veterinary Sciences (Smith et al., 2020) found that dogs fed diets rich in fermentable fibers like legumes experienced increased flatulence compared to those on low-fiber diets. Replacing these foods with easily digestible carbohydrates such as white rice or sweet potatoes can help.

If your dog gulps food, consider using a slow-feeder bowl or feeding smaller, more frequent meals. This reduces the likelihood of swallowed air and helps prevent gas buildup. Another helpful strategy is to place a large, clean object like a ball in the food bowl, encouraging your dog to eat around it and slow down their consumption.

Adding probiotics to your dog’s diet can support a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a crucial role in digestion. Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria that compete with harmful, gas-producing bacteria. Research published in Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition (Yang et al., 2019) demonstrated that dogs supplemented with probiotics had reduced flatulence and improved overall digestive health. Look for probiotic products specifically formulated for dogs and introduce them gradually to avoid initial digestive upset.

If food intolerances are suspected, consider an elimination diet. This involves feeding a novel protein and carbohydrate source (e.g., venison and sweet potato) to identify potential allergens. Work with your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist for guidance. The elimination phase typically lasts 8-12 weeks, during which all other foods and treats are avoided.

Prebiotic fibers, such as inulin or psyllium, can promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria while minimizing harmful gas-producing bacteria. However, these should be added in moderation to avoid over-fermentation. Prebiotics work in tandem with probiotics, creating an optimal environment for gut health. Foods like bananas, chicory root, and oats naturally contain prebiotic fibers and can be added in small amounts to your dog’s diet.

Ensure your dog stays well-hydrated, as water aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation, a common contributor to gas. Encourage water consumption by providing fresh, clean water throughout the day and consider adding water to dry food to improve its digestibility.

Digestive enzyme supplements can aid dogs that struggle with breaking down certain food components. These enzymes assist in the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, reducing the risk of fermentation and gas production. Supplements are particularly beneficial for older dogs or those with pancreatic insufficiency.

Fresh or lightly cooked meals are easier to digest than heavily processed kibble, reducing the likelihood of gas. Fresh food diets provide balanced nutrition while avoiding common culprits like fillers and artificial preservatives. Transition your dog to fresh food gradually to prevent temporary digestive upset.

Ginger and fennel have natural carminative properties, meaning they help reduce gas and bloating. These can be added to your dog’s meals in small, dog-safe amounts to soothe their digestive tract.