How can I reduce my dog's farts?

The short answer!

Slow down mealtimes, transition foods gradually over 7 to 10 days, and identify problem ingredients through elimination. Probiotics may help stabilise gut bacteria. Consistent feeding times and avoiding table scraps make a noticeable difference for most dogs.

Slow down eating

Fast eating means swallowed air. Slow-feeder bowls, puzzle feeders, or scattering kibble across a flat tray forces dogs to work for each mouthful. For multi-dog households, feeding separately removes competition that drives gulping.

Transition foods properly

Abrupt diet changes cause bacterial upheaval and temporary wind increases. When switching foods, mix increasing proportions of new food with decreasing old food over 7 to 10 days. This gives gut bacteria time to adjust populations.

Identify problem ingredients

If wind persists despite slow transitions, specific ingredients may be the issue. Common culprits include legumes (peas, lentils), dairy, and certain protein sources. An elimination approach, feeding a simple diet then reintroducing ingredients individually, can identify sensitivities. Your vet can guide this process.

Consider extra digestive support

Probiotics may help stabilise gut bacteria populations and reduce fermentation byproducts. Research in dogs shows certain strains can improve stool quality and reduce smelly compounds (1). Look for products with named strains and canine-specific evidence.
Digestive enzymes are sometimes suggested, though evidence for their effectiveness in otherwise healthy dogs is limited.

Maintain consistency

Regular feeding times at the same intervals each day help regulate digestion. Avoiding table scraps, random treats, and scavenged food reduces the unpredictable substrates that drive fermentation spikes.

Realistic expectations

Some wind is normal and unavoidable. The goal is comfortable baseline levels rather than elimination. If changes don't help after several weeks, or wind accompanies other symptoms, your vet can investigate underlying causes.

References

Nogueira JPS, He F, Mangian HF, Oba PM, De Godoy MRC. Dietary supplementation of a fiber-prebiotic and saccharin-eugenol blend in extruded diets fed to dogs. J Anim Sci. 2019;97(11):4519-4531. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31634399/

This content is for general information only and does not replace veterinary advice. Supplements and nutritional products are not licensed veterinary medicines. Always speak to your vet before making changes to your dog’s diet, supplements, or care routine.

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owners also ask

Why is my dog suddenly farting so much?

Sudden increases in farting usually follow dietary changes, eating too fast, or swallowing air. New treats, table scraps, or switching foods without a gradual transition are common culprits. Stress and gut bacteria shifts can also play a role.

What causes dogs to fart a lot?

Dogs fart when gut bacteria ferment undigested food, producing wind as a byproduct. High-fibre ingredients, hard-to-digest proteins, and rapid eating all increase fermentation. Some breeds are naturally more prone due to their anatomy.

When should I worry about my dog's farting?

Occasional wind is normal. Concern is warranted when farting accompanies persistent loose stools, vomiting, appetite loss, bloated abdomen, lethargy, or blood in their poop. Sudden severe increases lasting more than 48 to 72 hours probably warrant a check-up with your vet.