We dog lovers will do anything for our furry pals, but let's face it - sometimes they can really stink. As in, peel-the-paint, make you run out the door, grab the nearest gas mask, shriek in disgust, STINK. And whether they creep upon you (silent but deadly style), or blare like a fog horn, a dog's farts have left many of us wondering: just why do they smell so awful? Well, now you can satisfy your curiosity. Read on to learn the mystery behind your dog's stench, and what you can (and can't) do about it.
What Causes Your Dog to Fart?
Just like humans fart to release gas (c'mon, don't act like you don't do it!), dogs must do the same. Passing gas is normal; it's what dogs' bodies are meant to do. However, an excess of gas in your pooch may mean that something is off with your pal, such an imbalance of gut bacteria or maybe a change in diet that isn't going over too well. On the other hand, there are certain breeds that uh, tend to toot more than others. For example, doggies with flatter faces, like Pugs and English Bulldogs, are known as brachycephalic dogs. The shape of their faces means these dogs suck in more air throughout the day, leading to more gas. Makes sense, right?
What's Diet Got To Do With It?
The short answer is: a lot! The long answer: diet is almost always the culprit behind your dog's stinky farts. And the reasons run the gamut:
- Sudden changes to your dog's diet,
- Foods that are high in carbohydrates,
- Too many table foods
- Allergies - either seasonal or food related
Perhaps your dog's tummy isn't cooperating with certain foods. Dogs tend to have challenges processing carbohydrates, which are often used as fillers in dry dog food. Or, if you've recently switched up your dog's diet and they're suddenly gassy as heck, then investigate the ingredients in their latest chow.
It's not just carbs that could be the problem; the additives in your dog's food may cause gas. For example, carrageenan is an additive in wet dog food that many people believe is linked to IBS. Or, your dog may have gotten into something (think: trash dive!) that is causing more problems than normal. And when it comes to table food, while you may find it fun to share your goodies with your pooch, the short-term joy may be causing long-term stench. Foods like fruits, milk products or sugary treats are known flatulence-inducers in dogs.
