What causes dogs to fart a lot?

The short answer!

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.

All dogs produce wind. The amount depends on what they eat, how they eat, and how efficiently their gut processes food.

The fermentation process

When food reaches the large intestine, bacteria break down whatever the small intestine didn't fully absorb. This fermentation produces gases including hydrogen, methane, and small amounts of sulphur compounds (the smelly ones). The more undigested material reaching the colon, the more wind produced (1).

Dietary factors

Certain ingredients ferment more easily:

Legumes (peas, lentils, beans) common in grain-free foods
Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower)
High-fat foods that slow digestion
Dairy products (many adult dogs can't digest the lactose sugars)
Poor quality proteins that are harder to digest

Sudden diet changes cause temporary spikes because gut bacteria populations need time to adapt to new substrates.

Eating behaviour

Fast eaters swallow air with every gulp. Competitive feeding (multiple dogs eating together) often worsens this. Raised bowls, slow-feeder dishes, and separating dogs at mealtimes can reduce air intake.

Breed predisposition

Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers) swallow more air due to their shortened airways and facial structure. They're also prone to digestive sensitivities that compound the issue (2).

Individual variation

Some dogs simply produce more wind than others, even on identical diets. Gut microbiome composition varies between individuals, affecting fermentation patterns and wind production.

References

Pilla R, Suchodolski JS. The role of the canine gut microbiome and metabolome in health and gastrointestinal disease. Front Vet Sci. 2020;6:498. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6971114/
Roedler FS, Pohl S, Oechtering GU. How does severe brachycephaly affect dog's lives? Results of a structured preoperative owner questionnaire. Vet J. 2013;198(3):606-610. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24176279/

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.

How can I reduce my dog's farts?

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.

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.