Why Is My Dog Farting So Much? Causes and Remedies

If you've ever searched "Why is my dog farting so much?" while desperately cracking a window, you're not alone.

Dog farting (or canine flatulence) is common, but it can be a sign your pup's digestion needs a little help. The occasional gas is no big deal. But if your dog's gas is frequent, loud, or smells really bad, it could be time to dig into what's causing it.

In this guide, we'll cover the most common causes of dog farts, what they can mean for your dog's health, and how to reduce excessive gas in dogs through diet and lifestyle.

Why Do Dogs Fart?

Just like humans, dogs fart when gas builds up in the digestive tract and needs to be released. This gas is produced as bacteria in the colon (large intestine) break down food during digestion.

A small amount of flatulence is normal. But if you're dealing with smelly dog farts every day, it's worth investigating.

 What Causes Excessive Gas in Dogs?

There are several reasons your dog might be farting more than usual. Here are the most common causes:

1. Diet and Food Sensitivities

If you're wondering "What food causes dogs to fart?", the answer is: quite a few.

Common gas-triggering ingredients include:

• Dairy products – Many dogs are lactose intolerant.
• Legumes – Peas, lentils, soybeans can ferment in the gut.
• Cruciferous veggies – Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower = big gas.
• Table scraps – Especially fatty, fried, or spicy foods.
• Low-quality dog food – Fillers, grains, or food that is difficult to digest.

Smelly farts and food intolerance often go hand in hand. If your dog is also scratching, vomiting, or has loose stools, it might be time to try an elimination diet or switch to a Single Protein Diet (SPD) using a novel protein like kangaroo.

2. Eating Too Fast

A common but overlooked cause of dog gas is aerophagia, which is swallowing too much air during meals. This happens often in pups who inhale their food at lightning speed.

3. Poor Gut Health (Dysbiosis)

A dog's gut is home to bacteria that help with digestion. When this microbiome is out of balance due to antibiotics, stress, or sudden diet changes it can lead to excessive farting.

4. Underlying Medical Conditions

If your dog's gas is constant, extra smelly, or paired with other symptoms, it might point to something more serious.

Potential medical causes of chronic gas in dogs:

• Pancreatitis.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
• Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI).
• Intestinal parasites.

How to Stop Dog Farts: Home Remedies and Dietary Tips

If you're wondering how to stop your dog farting so much, here are practical solutions that work:

1. Slow Down Meal Time

If your dog eats too quickly, try slowing them down with:

• A slow-feeder bowl.
• Puzzle feeders.
• Smaller, more frequent meals.
• Elevated bowls. 

2. Switch to a Better Diet

Choosing the best food for gassy dogs can make a big difference.

• Look for a Single Protein Diet (SPD) with limited ingredients.
• Avoid fillers, grains, and dairy.
• Add fiber slowly (too much, too fast can backfire).

Our Prime100 SPD range is designed to support sensitive stomachs using high-quality, fresh ingredients.

3. Skip the Table Scraps and Leftovers

Feeding your dog scraps from the dinner table might feel like a treat, but it can wreak havoc on their digestion and lead to some seriously smelly gas. Human foods are often too rich, fatty, or spicy for dogs and can upset their gut balance.

 For a healthier, happier tummy:

• Stick to a complete and balanced diet made just for dogs.
• Avoid dairy, which many dogs can't digest.
• Never feed toxic foods like onions, garlic, or anything spicy.

Keeping treats species-appropriate is one of the simplest ways to reduce dog flatulence and support their overall health.

So when are dog farts a concern? While most dog farts are harmless, contact your vet if:

• Farts are constant and smell unusually bad.
• They're paired with vomiting, diarrhoea, or weight loss.
• Your dog seems lethargic or has a swollen belly.
• Their appetite has changed suddenly.

👉 Wondering what your dog's poop says about their health? Check out our guide to dog stool health