While it’s mostly harmless, pet owners may wonder why their dog burps and if it’s a cause for concern. Burping in dogs is common and can happen for various reasons, most being nothing to worry about.
Sometimes, all your dog needs is a snuffle mat to slow down eating. Or you can invert a smaller bowl inside the regular food bowl to keep them from eating too fast. Other times, necessary measures may be more drastic and medical.
In this article, we will explore why dogs burp and provide tips on dog burping (and why they stink). Dr. Arthur Jankowski, a surgeon at the Veterinary Specialty Center of Delaware, reveals that belching is not a sign of bloat as many would think. Read along to learn about this and more about canine burping.
So, Why Do Dogs Burp or Belch?
Dogs, like humans, burp or belch due to eating or drinking too fast, swallowing air, or consuming certain types of food. Burping is a natural process that helps release excess air from the stomach and esophagus. It’s also possible that burping is a sign of an underlying health issue, such as acid reflux or gastrointestinal problems.
One of the main reasons why dogs burp is due to their eating habits. When dogs eat too fast, they tend to swallow a lot of air along with their food. Swallowing air is also why dogs get hiccups, as we observe in the linked article.
Overall, While occasional burping is normal, excessive burping or belching may be a sign of an underlying issue and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Understanding Dog Burps & Belching (Eructation in Dogs)
Dogs, like humans, burp when they swallow air while eating or drinking. This air can build up in their stomach, causing discomfort and the need to release it through a burp of flatulence. According to Nick Cave from the University of Massey, Burping is a natural process that helps dogs regulate their digestive system and prevent gastrointestinal problems.
In medical research, the act of burping is also known as eructation in dogs. It occurs when the stomach muscles contract, pushing the air up the esophagus and out of the mouth. Eructation is an essential part of the digestive process, as it helps to release gas and prevent bloating and discomfort.
Dogs may burp more than humans due to their anatomy. Dogs have a shorter and straighter esophagus than humans, making it easier for air to get trapped. Additionally, the lower esophageal sphincter, which separates the stomach from the esophagus, may not close properly in some dogs, allowing air to escape.
Aerophagia
Aerophagia is a condition where dogs swallow too much air while eating or drinking. This can lead to excessive burping and discomfort. Some dogs are more prone to aerophagia, including those who eat too quickly, those who are anxious or stressed, and those with certain medical conditions.
Why Does My Dog’s Burp Stink?
“Sulfur burps” refer to a dog’s burps or belches that have a distinct smell resembling that of rotten eggs. This specific smell is associated with the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas. Here’s a breakdown of sulfur burps in dogs:
Origin of the Sulfur Smell:
- Hydrogen Sulfide Gas: The characteristic “rotten egg” smell of sulfur burps is due to the presence of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas. This gas can be produced in the stomach and intestines during the breakdown of certain foods, usually high-protein meals.
- Sulfur-rich Foods: Some foods are naturally high in sulfur compounds. Examples include meats, dairy, and certain vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. When dogs consume these foods, they can produce more hydrogen sulfide during digestion, leading to sulfur burps.
Causes of Sulfur Burps (rotten egg or stinky burps) in Dogs:
- Dietary Choices: As mentioned above, consuming sulfur-rich foods can lead to the production of hydrogen sulfide gas in the digestive system, resulting in sulfur burps.
- Digestive Disorders: Conditions such as gastritis, acid reflux, or other gastrointestinal disorders can increase the production of various gasses, including hydrogen sulfide.
- Bacterial Overgrowth: An imbalance in the gut flora, where certain sulfur-producing bacteria become overrepresented, can result in an increase in hydrogen sulfide production. This can happen due to various reasons, including prolonged antibiotic use or dietary imbalances.
- Speed of Eating: Eating too quickly can lead to the ingestion of excess air, which can exacerbate gas production and the release of odors during burping.
14 Common Reasons Dogs Burp
Dogs burp for various reasons, and it’s usually not a cause for concern. However, if your dog keeps burping and it stinks, there may be a problem. Here are some of the most common reasons why dogs burp:
1. Eating Too Fast
One of the most common reasons why dogs burp is eating too fast. When dogs eat too quickly, they tend to swallow a lot of air along with their food. This can cause the stomach to become distended and lead to burping. Drinking too fast can also cause dogs to burp.
You can feed your dog smaller meals throughout the day or use a slow-feeder bowl to prevent your dog from eating too fast. Slow-feeder bowls are designed to make it more difficult for dogs to eat quickly by forcing them to work for their food.
2. Gastrointestinal Issues
Veterinary sources point to several gastrointestinal issues that can also cause dogs to burp. If your dog is experiencing digestive problems, such as acid reflux or gastritis, they may burp more frequently than usual. GI issues are also the leading causes of gassiness in dogs, which we cover how to treat in our article.
Other symptoms of gastrointestinal issues in dogs may include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. In fact, studies show that burping in some dogs prone to gastrointestinal disease like Belgian Shepherds (Malinois’, Groenendaels, and Tervurens) may be an early warning sign of a severe issue as these dogs are prone to rare gastric cancers. Other symptoms to look out for in these cases include lip smacking, diarrhea and vomiting.
Here are a few GI issues causing belching:
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This can cause irritation and inflammation of the esophageal lining, leading to dog burping. Signs include vomiting, regurgitation, and belching.
Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome
Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition affecting a dog’s gastrointestinal tract. It is characterized by inflammation of the lining of the intestines, which can lead to various digestive symptoms, including burping.
The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Dogs with IBS may have an abnormal immune response to certain foods, bacteria, or other substances in the gut.
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) is a condition in which the pancreas cannot produce enough digestive enzymes. This can lead to various symptoms, including burping, flatulence, diarrhea, and weight loss.
EPI is most commonly seen in dogs, but it can also occur in cats and other animals. Yellow poop is a unique sign of EPI, especially when it happens frequently.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is when the pancreas becomes inflamed, leading to a range of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some cases, dogs with pancreatitis may also experience burping.
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE) & Gastritis
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE) and gastritis are two conditions that can cause dogs to burp. HGE is a severe condition that causes vomiting and bloody diarrhea, while gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining that can also cause vomiting, including vomiting blood.
HGE is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention from a veterinarian. Gastritis, on the other hand, is a less severe condition. In some cases, burping may be a symptom of either HGE or gastritis.
Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancers
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are a group of cancers that affect the digestive system. These cancers can occur in any part of the GI tract, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus.
Several different types of GI cancers can affect dogs, including:
- Adenocarcinoma: This is the most common type of GI cancer in dogs. It typically affects the stomach and small intestine.
- Lymphoma is a lymphatic system cancer that can affect the GI tract.
- Leiomyosarcoma: This is a rare type of cancer affecting the GI tract’s smooth muscle.
- Mast cell tumor: This is a type of cancer that can affect the GI tract, as well as other parts of the body.
When a dog has GI cancer, the cancerous cells can interfere with the normal functioning of the digestive system. This can cause food to move through the digestive system more slowly than normal, leading to the buildup of gas in the stomach and intestines.
3. Swallowing Air (Aerophagia)
Dogs may also burp if they swallow air (aerophagia) while drinking or playing. This is particularly common in breeds with short snouts, such as pugs and bulldogs. When these dogs drink or play, they tend to gulp air, water, or saliva, which can lead to burping. Studies have shown that Aerophagia is a contributing factor for GDV, particularly in large dogs.
To prevent your dog from swallowing air, you can try using a water bowl designed to reduce splashing or provide them with smaller amounts of water at a time.
4. Eating Certain Foods
Certain foods can also cause dogs to burp. For example, if your dog eats many fatty or spicy foods, they may be more likely to experience burping. Additionally, if your dog is lactose intolerant, consuming dairy products can lead to burping and other digestive issues.
5. Diet & Foods That Produce Gas
Diet plays a crucial role in the digestive health of dogs. Certain foods can cause gas, leading to burping. Here are some foods that can produce gas in dogs:
- High-Fiber Foods: Fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system, but too much fiber can cause gas. Foods like beans, lentils, and broccoli are high in fiber and can cause bloating and gas in dogs.
- High Protein Foods: Dogs who eat high protein diets often get notoriously stinky “sulfur burps” because of the sulfur gasses released when a dog is digesting proteins. This is quite normal and nothing to worry about so long as your dog is in good health.
- Dairy Products: Dogs are lactose intolerant, and consuming dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream can cause digestive issues, including gas.
- Fatty Foods: Foods high in fat can cause gas and indigestion in dogs. Avoid giving your dog fatty meats, fried foods, and processed foods.
- Spicy Foods: Spices can irritate the digestive system and cause gas and bloating in dogs. Avoid giving your dog spicy foods like chili powder, garlic, and onion.
It is essential to monitor your dog’s diet and avoid feeding them foods that can cause gas.
6. Adverse Reactions to Certain Foods (Food intolerances)
Some dogs may experience adverse reactions to certain foods, leading to burping. Food intolerances occur when a dog’s body has difficulty digesting a particular food, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and other symptoms. Common food intolerances in dogs include:
- Dairy products;
- Wheat;
- Soy;
- Beef;
- Chicken; and
- Eggs.
Symptoms of food intolerances may include soft poop, burping, flatulence, diarrhea, vomiting, and skin irritations. If a dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is recommended to eliminate the suspected food from their diet and consult with a veterinarian.
It is important to note that food intolerances are different from food allergies, which are more severe and can cause life-threatening reactions. Additionally, studies show that dogs can develop food intolerances even years before clinical signs develop.
7. Lack of Exercise, Leading to More Gassiness
When dogs do not exercise enough, their digestive system can become sluggish. This can lead to a build-up of gas in the stomach and intestines, which can cause burping and flatulence. Research shows that less active canines had much higher levels of flatulence than active ones.
8. Gassiness and Burping in Overweight or Obese Dogs
Overweight or obese dogs are more prone to gastrointestinal problems, including gassiness and burping. This is because the excess weight puts pressure on the stomach, which can cause the stomach to produce more gas than usual.
Veterinary sources show that flatulence and burping are common signs observed in all obese dogs, affecting even airway function.
9. Breeds Prone to Gassiness and Burping
Some dog breeds are more prone to gassiness and burping than others. Breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and Frenchies have short snouts that increase the swallowing of air. Belgian Shepherds (the Malinois, Tervuren, Groenendael, and Laekenois) are also very prone to gastrointestinal issues that can start with gassiness and burping and become more severe.
10. Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites can also cause burping in dogs. These parasites can cause inflammation and irritation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to excessive burping. Dogs can contract these parasites by ingesting contaminated food or water or by coming into contact with infected feces or soil.
More like this:
How to tell if your dog has heartworms
11. Foreign Bodies in the Gut
Foreign bodies in the gut can cause a dog to burp. Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn’t, and foreign bodies in the gut can cause various issues, including burping. Foreign bodies can include anything from bones to toys to socks. These items can get stuck in the dog’s digestive tract, causing discomfort and inflammation.
Of course, foreign bodies can also get stuck in the throat, so see our article on how to help a choking dog.
12. Reaction to Toxic Substances
Dogs can burp due to the ingestion of toxic substances. Dogs are known to eat almost anything, which can lead to the consumption of toxic substances such as cleaning products, pesticides, and fertilizers. These substances can cause a range of symptoms, including burping, seizures, and foaming at the mouth.
13. Certain Medications
Certain medications can also cause dogs to burp more frequently. These medications may include:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs: These drugs can cause stomach irritation, leading to increased burping.
- Antibiotics: Some antibiotics can cause gastrointestinal upset, leading to increased burping.
- Steroids: Steroids can increase stomach acid production, leading to increased burping.
- Pain medications: Certain pain medications can cause gastrointestinal upset and increase burping.
It is important to note that these medications are prescribed by veterinarians to treat various health conditions and should not be discontinued without consulting a veterinarian first.
14. Gastrointestinal Issues Related to Liver or Kidney Disorders
Dogs can burp due to issues related to liver or kidney disorders. These organs play an important role in digestion, and any dysfunction can lead to gastrointestinal problems.
Liver disease can cause burping in dogs due to the accumulation of gasses in the stomach. The liver produces bile, which helps in the digestion of fats. When the liver is not functioning properly, the bile flow can get disrupted, leading to indigestion and bloating. This can cause the dog to burp frequently.
Similarly, kidney disease can also cause burping in dogs. The kidneys regulate the acid-base balance in the body, and any dysfunction can lead to acidosis or alkalosis. Acidosis can cause the dog to burp frequently due to the excess acid production in the stomach. Green poop is a convincing sign of either of these organ failures.
One point to remember is that the pancreas, liver, and gastrointestinal tract in a dog are so closely connected that research actually has a term for when a dog has problems with all three, called triaditis syndrome. When a dog has triaditis syndrome, burping or belching is just one of many symptoms and your dog will need veterinary care immediately.
Health Implications of Dog Burps: When To Worry Or Be Concerned Over Belching Dogs
Dog burps are usually harmless and nothing to worry about. However, if your dog burps excessively, it may indicate an underlying health issue. If your dog’s burps are accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
If your dog is burping excessively, it is vital to identify the underlying cause and address it accordingly. This may involve a change in diet, medication, or other treatments prescribed by a veterinarian.
Preventing and Treating Dog Burps
There are several ways to prevent or reduce burping in dogs:
Dietary Changes
Diet plays a significant role in preventing and treating dog burps. Feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent excessive air intake during meals.
Additionally, feeding your dog a high-quality, high-protein, easily digestible diet can help reduce the likelihood of burping. Switching to a low-fat diet also helps reduce the frequency of burps.
Some foods are more likely to cause burping than others. Avoid feeding your dog table scraps, as they can contain difficult ingredients for dogs to digest. Foods high in fat, such as bacon and sausage, should also be avoided. If your dog is lactose intolerant, avoid feeding them dairy products.
Medical Interventions
If dietary changes do not reduce the frequency of your dog’s burps, medical interventions may be necessary. A veterinarian can diagnose and treat underlying medical conditions that may be causing your dog’s burps. Some common medical conditions that can cause burping in dogs include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and food allergies.
Medication may sometimes be necessary to treat your dog’s burps. Antacids can help reduce the amount of acid in your dog’s stomach, which may reduce the frequency of burps. Prokinetic drugs can help improve food movement through your dog’s digestive system, which may also reduce the likelihood of burping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are certain breeds more prone to burping?
While any dog can burp, certain breeds may be more prone to it due to their anatomy. Breeds with short snouts, such as pugs and bulldogs, are more likely to burp because they tend to swallow more air when eating or drinking. Additionally, dogs that eat quickly or have a tendency to overeat may also be more prone to burping.
How can I prevent my dog from burping?
To prevent your dog from burping, it’s essential to ensure they eat and drink slowly. You can also try feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day instead of one large meal. Additionally, ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water.
Is burping a sign of a health issue?
While occasional burping is normal for dogs, excessive or persistent burping may indicate a health issue. If your dog is burping frequently or seems uncomfortable, it’s essential to take them to the vet for a check-up. Burping can be a symptom of digestive issues, such as acid reflux or gastrointestinal problems.
Can a dog’s diet affect their burping?
Yes, a dog’s diet can affect their burping. Certain foods, such as those high in fat or protein, can be harder for dogs to digest and may lead to more burping. Additionally, dogs that eat a lot of table scraps or human food may be more prone to burping.
What can I do if my dog’s burps smell bad?
If your dog’s burps have a foul odor, it may be a sign of a digestive issue or underlying health problem. It’s essential to take your dog to the vet for a check-up if you notice a change in their burping or if their burps have a strong odor. Your vet may recommend dietary changes or medication to help alleviate the issue.
Final Thoughts
Burping in dogs is a normal and natural process when dogs eat too fast and swallow air while eating or drinking. It is also a way for dogs to release excess gas from their digestive system. However, excessive burping or belching may indicate an underlying health issue, such as gastrointestinal problems or food intolerance.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.