Dog Flatulence – How to Combat it
Dog flatulence can happen at the most unexpected times and it is most embarrassing when you have friends around. It is quite natural for the body (whether it be dog or human) to omit gas but you know you have a problem when it becomes a habit! There are solutions that can relieve this embarrassment for you, and to benefit your dog.
What is Dog Flatulence?
Dog flatulence is a build up of gas inside the gastrointestinal tract. It is usually caused during natural digestion through the breakdown of bacteria. All humans and dogs do this but it can in some cases be rather excessive. Although it may be embarrassing for us and humorous, it can be uncomfortable for your dog and they too can become sensitive about this.
What Causes Dog Flatulence?
There are a few things that can cause dog flatulence.
- Your dog will be rushing and gulping down its food quite quickly.
- Feeding your dog human foods such as beans and peas.
- Giving your dog cheap dog food as this is usually of poor quality.
- Feeding your dog any leftovers or scraps from your meals.
How To Combat Dog Flatulence
There are many ways to combat dog flatulence.
Firstly feed your dog a high quality dog food.
Many of these contain the correct balance of nutrients and vitamins to provide a stable diet and reduce if not eliminate the flatulence. The same applies if you give your dog kibble or any dog treats. Always provide the best that you can. Although named brands are usually more expensive, they really are the best ingredients for your dog and generally it is worth paying more for the quality rather than the quantity.
Secondly, try to stick to the same brand your dog enjoys.
If you change from a good quality brand to a cheap brand, although it can cost a bit less, a cheaper brand can cause your dog more flatulence as there is less quality in the ingredients. Basically what you get is what you pay for and your dog’s stomach will benefit from it to make him/her feeling more comfortable after eating with no tummy aches or wind.
Thirdly, if your dog tend to rush and gulp their food down, then spread the feeding timetable out throughout the day resulting in less flatulence.
Little and often is the saying and how true it is rather than one or two meals per day. Unless you can be at home all day, invest in a automatic pet feeder, which can help to feed your dog a small meal which will in turn greatly reduce its flatulence.
Fourthly, if you really want to feed your dog scraps or leftovers from your plate, then stick to vegetables.
This can help to give a fuller feeling to a dog who is constantly begging for food. Try to mash down any peas or beans which can make your dog windy and avoid rich meats too. A great alternative is cooked or raw carrots, green beans, a tiny bit of banana (this is good for the heart in small quantities), tomatoes or grapes cut up, or a few sultanas.
Lastly, if the problem persists or becomes excessive, do not hesitate to consult your vet for their professional advice.
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May 25, 2010 | 0 | Canine Health