Remedies for Dog Flatulence

While dog flatulence can be distressing, particularly when you have company, in moderation it is a normal part of the canine digestive process. A quality diet is the most important factor in a healthy canine digestive system, but there are other ways to relieve dog flatulence. Remedies focus on prevention through healthy eating habits and exercise, as well as the reduction of gas in the intestines through supplements.

  1. Diet

    • According to OrganicPetDigest.com, a poor-quality diet is the No. 1 cause of dog flatulence. Many commercial foods are full of fillers and by-products that can produce gas in the digestive system. Avoid feeding your dog soy products as well as table scraps, excessive treats and spoiled food. OrganicPetDigest.com recommends a high-quality kibble such as Natural Balance or California Natural to keep your dog's digestive system running smoothly. Adding brown rice, apples and yogurt to your dog's food also will help to reduce gas.

    Exercise

    • Undigested food sitting in the intestines is one of the main causes of dog flatulence. According to OrganicPetDigest.com, exercise stimulates the intestines so that undigested food is processed quicker. Exercise will help push the gas out and may stimulate a bowel movement. Older dogs are particularly prone to gas when they lack exercise; nevertheless, he may only need a rambling stroll to get his digestive system going.

    Charcoal

    • DogBreedInfo.com recommends adding charcoal to your dog's food to help with flatulence. While activated charcoal is usually available from pet stores, check with your veterinarian before giving it to your dog. Charcoal may help reduce gas in the intestines, but it also can rob your dog of essential nutrients if used too often.

    Eating Habits

    • Some dogs eat so fast, they gulp air along with their dinner, resulting in bloating and flatulence. Dogs who used to be strays or dogs who are bullied by other members of the pack are particularly prone to this behavior. PetPlace.com recommends feeding small meals throughout the day to avoid flatulence. In addition, feeding your dog in a private area that is quiet and relaxing will promote calm eating habits.

    Supplements

    • Some supplements that may helpful in lessening dog flatulence include fiber, herbs and probiotics or digestive enzymes. If you suspect that your dog is not getting enough fiber in his diet, Natural Moves for Pets is an excellent fiber supplement. OrganicPetDigest.com recommends GasBGone Herbal Formula, since it contains herbs such as cardamom, chamomile and fennel that help reduce dog flatulence. Yogurt or probiotics supplements are also very effective in reducing gas. Natur's Way is a reputable digestive enzyme for pets.

    Considerations

    • While most dogs experience flatulence, chronic flatulence can be a sign of a serious illness such as inflammatory bowel disease, cancer and intestinal infections due to viruses, parasites or bacteria. Constipation also can cause flatulence and should be checked by a veterinarian if it persists for longer than two days. When a dog has a digestive disorder, remedies will not help her. Discuss your dog's flatulence with your veterinarian if it is excessive, chronic and accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss or constipation.