Dog Farts Smell Bad? Here’s How To Help

Every puppy parent has smelt the odd dog fart – it comes with owning a dog, right? And, just like us humans, dog farts come in all shapes and sizes. Some are silent, some are loud, and some smell so bad you have to leave the room in a hurry! And then there are the ones that disappear as quickly as they appeared – the phantom fart.

Unsurprisingly, some dogs will be more flatulent than others. Why? Well, it boils down to a lot of factors…

Do Dogs Fart?

Yes, dogs do fart! Our canine companions can experience gas and flatulence as a normal part of their digestive process. While it might be a bit embarrassing or unpleasant, occasional farting is completely natural for dogs.

As food breaks down in the stomach and intestines, gasses are produced and need to be expelled from the body. While occasional gas is normal, excessive or particularly foul-smelling gas can indicate an issue that may need to be addressed.

Causes of Gas in Dogs

Several factors can cause gas and farting in dogs, including:

• Diet: The type of food your dog eats plays a significant role in their digestive health. Foods that are high in fiber, or contain certain ingredients like beans, peas, dairy, and spicy foods, can produce more gas. Additionally, foods that are difficult to digest or that your dog is sensitive to can cause excess gas.
• Eating Habits: Dogs that eat too quickly often swallow a lot of air along with their food, leading to increased gas. Ensuring your dog eats at a slower pace can help reduce the amount of swallowed air and, consequently, gas.
• Food Intolerances: Some dogs have sensitivities or intolerances to specific ingredients in their diet. Common culprits include dairy, soy, and certain proteins. If your dog has a food intolerance, it can lead to digestive upset and increased gas.
• Gut Health: The balance of bacteria in your dog’s gut can affect how much gas they produce. A healthy gut microbiome helps with digestion and can reduce gas production. Probiotics and a balanced diet can support gut health.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can cause excessive gas in dogs. These include gastrointestinal disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, parasites, and infections. If your dog’s gas is accompanied by other symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, or weight loss, it’s important to consult your veterinarian.

Deciphering Dog Fart Smells

Understanding what constitutes a “normal” fart for your dog can help you identify potential health issues early. Generally, a dog’s flatulence shouldn’t have a very strong or pungent odor. Dogs without gastrointestinal issues may fart occasionally, but excessive or particularly foul-smelling gas can be a sign of a problem.

What Normal Farts Should Smell Like

Normal dog farts typically have a mild odor. They might be slightly unpleasant but shouldn’t be overpowering. The frequency of these farts should be occasional, not constant–unless you have a flat-faced dog. A dog with a healthy digestive system will pass gas sporadically as a normal part of digestion.

Unusual Fart Smells and Their Causes

If your dog’s farts have a strong, unusual odor, it could indicate an underlying issue. Here are some common smells and their potential causes:

• Sulfur: If your dog’s farts smell like rotten eggs, it could be due to the consumption of sulfur-rich foods like meat, eggs, or certain vegetables. This smell can also indicate certain parasites, an imbalance in gut bacteria, or a digestive issue.
• Skunk: A skunk-like smell may suggest a problem with your dog’s anal glands. These glands can become impacted or infected, leading to a foul odor.
• Fish: Farts that smell like fish can be a sign of a dietary issue, such as the consumption of fish-based foods or treats. It could also indicate an underlying health problem like liver or kidney disease. Sometimes anal gland issues can also cause a fishy odor.
• Pepperoni: A pepperoni-like smell may result from your dog eating processed meats or foods containing spices and seasonings. These ingredients can cause digestive upset and result in foul-smelling gas.
• Metallic: A metallic odor can be a sign of internal bleeding or an iron-rich diet. If you notice this smell, it’s important to consult your veterinarian immediately.

Why Do My Dog’s Farts Smell So Bad? 8 Reasons

1. Their Breed

Although it may sound a bit strange, the volume and consistency of farts can all come down to their breed. Brachycephalic dog breeds, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and Boston Terriers (dogs with short/flat snouts) normally suffer from wind more so than others. This is due to the shape of their skull. You see, when brachycephalic dogs eat and drink, they tend to take in more air, resulting in a build-up of gas in the intestines or stomach.

2. Table Scraps

We can all admit to falling into a few bad habits when it comes to our furry friends. Sometimes, all it takes is looking into a pair of puppy dog eyes during supper, and the rest is history.

Unfortunately, not all ‘human’ food is good for our pooches. Lots of our food is high in fats or has been made with spices – all that can cause havoc in your dog’s stomach and cause a smelly fart or two. The best thing to do it to limit table scraps as much as possible. The odd nibble is completely okay, but too much could be the cause of those smelly puppy farts!

3. Food/Seasonal Allergies

When it comes to food allergies and seasonal allergies, they can affect your pup internally and externally. If they deal with an environmental intolerance; pollen, dust, or perfumes, you will notice your dog scratching and itching – but what happens when the allergy is internal?

Having an allergic reaction to something they have eaten can result in very smelly and offensive farts. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to discover the exact cause of your pup’s dietary intolerance. Your veterinarian should be able to help you work out a plan to find out what foods don’t agree with your dog if this is something you suspect.

4. Eating Too Fast

Dinner time is normally one of your pet’s favorite times of the day – well, that and “walkies!” When they see their food bowl coming, many dogs can’t help but want to devour their food as quickly as possible… One minute the food is there, the next, it’s gone.

However, eating quickly could be the reason your pup is suffering from wind. As said above, brachycephalic dog breeds take in too much air when they eat and drink, so when your pup gobbles up their dinner too quickly, they can experience a similar effect.

How to get around this problem? If your pup is a very fast eater, try them with a slow-release feeding bowl or a slow-feeder dog bowl, available from most pet stores. This will portion out how much food they get at one time and allow their stomach time to digest at a slower rate.

5. Rummaging Through Garbage 

Not all dogs do this, but many of our canine companions can’t help themselves when it comes to finding naughty scraps in the garbage. 

Dogs that rummage through the trash may consume spoiled food or food that causes digestive issues. When dogs eat spoiled or decomposing food, it can lead to fermentation in the stomach and intestines, producing foul-smelling gas. 

Additionally, trash often contains a variety of food scraps and substances that dogs shouldn’t eat, contributing to digestive upset and stinky farts. Ensuring your dog doesn’t have access to garbage and providing a secure trash bin can help prevent this issue.

6. A Diet Change

A simple change in your dog’s diet could be the reason they’re producing terrible farts. Although it is encouraged to change their diet if they’re suffering from bad gas, this change could be another contributor. If this diet change is sudden, your pup’s body will take a while to adjust, which could result in wind. The best thing to do is to slowly introduce new food into your pup’s diet.

PetLab Co. Pro Tip: If you have decided to change your pet’s diet for a specific reason, start by slowly adding the new food to their current diet. This will allow your pup’s digestive system to acclimatize to the new food and reduce any problems.

7. Consuming Milk or Dairy Products

Dairy is one of the biggest causes of digestion issues in dogs, including loose stools, indigestion, cramps, and wind. Most dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme lactase, which is needed to digest dairy products properly. 

When dogs consume milk, cheese, ice cream, or other dairy products, the undigested lactose can ferment in the intestines, leading to gas and bloating. This fermentation process produces particularly smelly farts. To avoid this, it’s best to keep dairy products out of your dog’s diet and opt for lactose-free treats and alternatives.

8. Poor Quality Food

It can be hard to know if you’re giving your pet the best food for them. There are countless brands and options, so much so that deciding the perfect diet for your pooch can be seriously overwhelming.

Many dog food brands on the market are packed with unnecessary fillers that cause havoc on your dog’s digestive system.

Foods That Cause Stinky Dog Farts

Certain foods are known to cause excess gas and smelly gas in dogs. Understanding which foods can lead to digestive issues can help you make better dietary choices for your furry friend. Here are some common culprits:

Peas

Peas are often included in dog food as a source of protein and fiber. However, peas can also cause gas in some dogs due to their fermentable carbohydrates, which can be difficult to digest.

Beans

Beans, like peas, are high in fiber and protein but can be challenging for dogs to digest. The fermentation of beans in the gut can produce significant amounts of gas, leading to unpleasant-smelling farts.

Dairy

As mentioned above, most dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning they cannot properly digest lactose found in dairy products. Consuming milk, cheese, or other dairy items can result in digestive upset and smelly gas.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli are known for causing gas in both humans and dogs. These cruciferous vegetables contain complex sugars and fiber that can ferment in the gut, leading to gas production.

Soybeans

Soybeans and soy products are common ingredients in some dog foods. While they are a good source of protein, they can also cause gas due to their fermentable carbohydrates.

Eggs

Eggs are a nutritious food for dogs but can cause gas in some cases. The sulfur content in eggs can lead to particularly smelly farts if they are not fully digested.

Other Foods

Other foods that can cause gas in dogs include:

• High-fat foods: These can slow down digestion and increase gas production. They can also increase the risk for diseases like pancreatitis.
• Spicy foods: Spices and seasonings can irritate a dog’s digestive system, leading to gas.
• High-fiber foods: While fiber is essential for digestion, too much fiber can cause excessive gas.

Smelly Dog Farts Caused By Other Health Issues

While most cases of smelly farts in dogs are caused by dietary changes, dietary indiscretions, or food allergies, there are some gastrointestinal health issues that may cause excess gas in dogs. It’s essential to be aware of these potential health problems and consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Here are some common health issues that can lead to excessive and smelly gas in dogs:

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. This inflammation can interfere with the normal digestion and absorption of food, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and excessive gas. Dogs with IBD may produce particularly foul-smelling farts due to the malabsorption of nutrients.

Intestinal Parasites

Intestinal parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, and Giardia, can cause significant digestive upset in dogs. These parasites disrupt the normal function of the intestines, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, weight loss, and gas. The presence of parasites can cause a noticeable change in the smell of your dog’s farts.

Colitis

Colitis, or inflammation of the colon, is another condition that can lead to excessive gas in dogs. Colitis can be caused by various factors, including infections, stress, and dietary indiscretions. Dogs with colitis often experience frequent, loose stools, and gas that may have a strong odor.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that plays a crucial role in digestion. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, it can lead to digestive issues, including gas, bloating, and abdominal pain. Pancreatitis can cause your dog to produce particularly smelly farts due to the impaired digestion of fats and other nutrients.

Cancer

Certain types of gastrointestinal cancer can also lead to excessive gas in dogs. Tumors in the digestive tract can obstruct normal digestion and cause symptoms such as vomiting, weight loss, and gas. If your dog’s gas is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to seek veterinary care for a thorough evaluation.

Other Health Issues

Other health issues that can cause smelly gas in dogs include:

• Food intolerances: Some dogs may have specific intolerances that lead to digestive upset and gas.
• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO): An overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine can cause gas and other digestive issues.
• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI): A condition where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes, leading to malabsorption and gas.

When to Consult Your Veterinarian

If your dog is experiencing excessive and smelly gas, it’s important to confirm the cause with a veterinarian. They can perform diagnostic tests to determine if there is a suspected underlying health issue and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Early detection and treatment of gastrointestinal problems can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life and reduce the frequency of smelly farts.

By understanding the potential health issues that can cause smelly gas in dogs, you can take proactive steps to ensure your pet’s digestive health and overall well-being. Regular veterinary check-ups and prompt attention to any changes in your dog’s digestive habits are essential for maintaining their health.

How to Stop Smelly Dog Farts

There is no way to stop wind completely, but there are ways we can reduce the frequency and severity. Plus, once you know what is causing the bad gas, you can take action and support your pup’s health – and your sense of smell – accordingly.

Better Diet

Changing your pup’s diet can help reduce those smelly farts. Of course, a sudden change of diet can cause an upset tummy, but if you start to introduce better quality food into their diet slowly, it will benefit them hugely in the future. You’ve got to play the long game when it comes to your dog’s tummy health.

Finding the perfect, healthy food for your dog can be challenging. Our advice is to work with your veterinarian or a board-certified pet nutritionist to find the right option based on your dog’s needs and lifestyle.

If you suspect your dog might be allergic to food, always discuss your concerns with your vet. You could consider switching to hypoallergenic diet formulations that are on the market which contain hydrolyzed proteins, meaning that the ‘reactive’ proteins are already broken down into molecules that the immune system will not recognize as allergens.

Always feed your dog a balanced diet with high-quality ingredients and avoid giving them table scraps or foods high in sulfur. By understanding which foods can cause gas and making informed dietary choices, you can help reduce your dog’s smelly farts and keep their digestive system healthy.

Exercise

When a dog is more active, their flatulence will be less frequent than a lazy pooch. If you have a dog that loves to sleep and lay around all day, it is time to change this bad behavior.

Make sure you’re taking them for a breed-appropriate length walk daily. Not only will this help with any gas issues, but the regular exercise can aid digestion and reduce gas buildup – an all-round winner.

Check In With The Vet

Dog farts smell bad? Talking to your vet could be the best way to reduce your pet’s gas. All the options above can help you discover the cause on your own, but if you try them and still notice your dog producing frequent, smelly farts, seeking advice from your vet is key.

Inflammation of the bowel, pancreatic disease, and gastrointestinal disease are all serious conditions that could be the root of your pup’s wind issues. Many of these illnesses come with other symptoms, such as vomiting, abdominal swelling, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. If you discover any of these, along with smelly farts, there could be a more sinister problem. 

Bottom Line on Bad Dog Gas

Let’s face it, gas is just a natural part of life and a regular occurrence when you’re a puppy parent. The only time you need to worry is if these farts become an extremely regular and daily occurrence. None of us want our dogs to be unhealthy, so finding the root of the problem as soon as possible is ideal. After all, our job is to make sure our pets are healthy, happy, and enjoying their life with us by their side – with as few bad smells as possible.

Understanding the different smells of your dog’s farts and their potential causes can help you ensure your pet remains healthy and comfortable. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns about your dog’s digestive health.