Hey all! Have you ever been sitting around in deep, contemplative thought, and been like "can dogs actually burp?" Well, we are going to cut to the chase here, dogs can absolutely burp. And this shouldn't come as that much of a surprise, because dogs and humans share so much in common. In this blog, we are going to deep dive into the sound, science, and symptomology behind the dog burp. So, grab a coffee, or maybe a beer (if you want to burp while you read) and let's dive in!
Key Takeaways Burped Up
- Yes, dogs can burp! Just like humans, dogs can expel gas from their stomach through their mouth.
- Why do dogs burp? Common reasons include gulping air while eating, drinking too fast, or certain digestive issues.
- When to be concerned: If your dog's burping is accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of discomfort, it's time to consult your vet.
- Fun fact: Some dog breeds, especially those with flat faces like Bulldogs and Pugs, are more prone to burping due to their unique anatomical structure.
- Tip: To reduce burping, try feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals and use puzzle feeders to slow down their eating.
The Science Behind the Burp
First things first, let's get to the root of what a burp actually is. A burp, or belch if you're feeling fancy, is simply the release of gas from the digestive tract through the mouth. In humans, this usually happens after we gulp down a fizzy drink or eat too quickly. But what about our canine companions?
Why Do Dogs Burp?
Dogs burp for similar reasons as humans. They might gulp down their food too fast, swallow air while drinking water, or even take in a bit of extra air when they're super excited during playtime. Here are a few common reasons why your dog might let out a little burp:
- Eating Too Quickly: If your dog is a speed eater, they're likely swallowing a lot of air along with their kibble. This trapped air has to go somewhere, and up it comes!
- Drinking Water Rapidly: Just like with food, gulping water can lead to swallowed air and, you guessed it, burps.
- Excitement or Anxiety: Dogs can swallow air when they're particularly excited or anxious. That extra air needs an escape route.
- Breeds with Flat Faces: Breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs are more prone to swallowing air due to their unique facial structure.
Is Dog Burping Normal?
To put this answer to bed, simply put: yes, some burps coming from a dog is absolutely, unequivocally, 100% normal. So there is no need to panic if you hear a few belches coming from your four-legged friend. With that being said, if the burping becomes chronic, or is accompanied by other symptoms of GI (short for gastrointestinal) symptoms, then it may be cause for concern and you should consider buzzing your vet. You know your dog the best, so trust your gut (pun intended) on this one.
What Does a Dog Burp Sound Like?
You might be wondering, what exactly does a dog burp sound like? Well, it's pretty similar to a human burp, just a bit quieter and shorter. It often sounds like a brief, muffled "huff" or "brrp" and can sometimes go unnoticed if you're not paying close attention. Unlike the cartoonish burps we might be used to hearing from people, a dog's burp is usually much more subtle. Next time you hear a mysterious sound coming from your pup, listen closely—it might just be a little canine burp saying hello!
When to Worry About Dog Burps
While an occasional burp is usually nothing to worry about, excessive burping can sometimes signal an underlying issue. Here's when you should take note and maybe give your vet a call:
Signs of Concern
- Frequent Burping: If your dog is burping more than usual, it could be a sign of gastrointestinal issues.
- Accompanied by Vomiting: Burping along with vomiting or regurgitation could indicate a problem that needs attention.
- Abdominal Discomfort: If your dog seems uncomfortable, bloated, or in pain, it might be more than just a simple burp.
- Changes in Appetite or Behavior: Any noticeable changes in eating habits or behavior could be a clue that something's up.
Potential Health Issues
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Just like humans, dogs can suffer from acid reflux, leading to frequent burping.
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): A serious and potentially life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. This is an emergency situation.
- Food Allergies or Intolerances: Certain foods might not agree with your dog's digestive system, causing excessive gas and burping.
If you notice any of these signs, it's best to consult your veterinarian to rule out any serious conditions.
More About Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) in Dogs
Alright, let's chat about GERD in dogs. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, often known simply as acid reflux, occurs when the contents of the stomach flow backward into the esophagus. This backflow happens because the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach isn't working properly. While it might sound scary, understanding the symptoms and treatments can help you manage this condition effectively.
Symptoms of GERD in Dogs
If your dog has GERD, you might notice some or all of these symptoms:
- Frequent Burping: A common sign, since gas builds up in the stomach and escapes upward.
- Regurgitation: Unlike vomiting, regurgitation involves the effortless expulsion of undigested food.
- Pain When Swallowing: Your dog might show reluctance to eat or appear in pain while eating.
- Weight Loss: Ongoing digestive issues can lead to weight loss over time.
- Drooling: Excessive drooling can be a sign that something's amiss with your dog's digestive system.
- Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath could be a clue since stomach acids can create an unpleasant odor.
Causes of GERD in Dogs
Several factors might contribute to your dog's GERD:
- Diet: Foods that are too fatty or spicy can aggravate acid reflux.
- Obesity: Extra weight can put pressure on the stomach, leading to reflux.
- Anatomical Issues: Some breeds are more prone due to their physical makeup.
- Medications: Certain drugs can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, increasing the risk of GERD.
Managing and Treating GERD in Dogs
Here are some ways to help manage your dog's GERD:
- Dietary Changes: Feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals can help manage acid levels. Opt for low-fat, high-protein foods and avoid giving table scraps.
- Elevating Food Bowls: Raising your dog's food bowls can help reduce the chances of reflux by using gravity to keep food down.
- Medications: Your vet may prescribe antacids or other medications to help manage the symptoms and prevent damage to the esophagus.
- Regular Vet Visits: Ongoing monitoring and regular check-ups can help catch and manage GERD before it becomes a more serious problem.
Remember, if you suspect your dog has GERD, it's always best to consult your vet to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Your furry friend's health and comfort are always worth the extra effort!
Can Dogs Really Have Food Allergies and Intolerances That Cause Burping?
Yes, they absolutely can! Just like humans, our furry companions can suffer from food allergies and intolerances that upset their digestive system and lead to issues like burping. When a dog has a food allergy, its immune system overreacts to certain proteins found in its diet, causing symptoms such as itching, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal problems. On the other hand, food intolerances don't involve the immune system but can still result in discomfort such as bloating, gas, and—you guessed it—burping! Common culprits include certain grains, dairy, and specific proteins. If you suspect your dog has a food allergy or intolerance, it's a good idea to work with your vet to identify the offending food and adjust their diet accordingly. A happy tummy means a happy dog, and that’s what we all want!
Fun Facts About Dog Burps
Alright, enough with the serious stuff. Let's lighten things up with some fun facts about dog burps!
Fun Fact #1: Dogs Can Communicate Through Burps
Believe it or not, some dogs use burping as a form of communication. It might be their way of saying, "Hey, that was a great meal!" or "I'm feeling a bit gassy, give me a moment."
Fun Fact #2: Burping Can Be a Sign of Contentment
Just like us humans might let out a satisfied sigh after a good meal, dogs might burp when they're feeling particularly content. It's their version of a happy post-dinner burp.
Fun Fact #3: Dogs Burp Less Than Humans
On average, dogs burp less frequently than humans. This is mainly because they don't consume carbonated beverages and generally eat less air-inducing foods.
How to Help Your Dog with Burping
If your dog's burping is becoming a bit too frequent for comfort, there are some simple steps you can take to help reduce those gassy moments.
Slow Down Their Eating
One of the most common reasons for dog burps is eating too quickly. Consider using a slow feeder bowl or spreading their food out on a flat surface to slow them down. This can help reduce the amount of air they swallow while eating.
What is a Slow Feeder, You Ask?
Yeea, not gonna lie - we did not know until recently, either! So a slow feeder is a dog bowl specifically designed to force your dog to slowwww down when they eat. The bowls could be designed with mazes or ridges or other obstructions that prevent your pooch from accessing huge mouthfuls of food so they do not wolf it down (in 10 seconds like our dog use to). The benefit of a slow feeder is actually two fold: one, they slow down when they eat (which may then lessen burping and other digestives issues) and two, it provides some mental stimulation during meal time.
Monitor Their Diet
Keep an eye on what your dog is eating. Some foods might be causing more gas than others. Avoid giving them table scraps or foods that are known to cause gas, like beans or dairy products.
Encourage Calm Drinking
If your dog gulps down water like there's no tomorrow, try to encourage them to drink more slowly. You can do this by providing smaller amounts of water more frequently throughout the day.
Regular Exercise
Regular exercise can help keep your dog's digestive system functioning smoothly. A good walk or play session can help move gas through their system more effectively.
Conclusion: Embrace the Burp!
If you take nothing else away from the article, it should be that in most cases, a dog burping is nothing to worry about. Because humans have a similar digestive process to dogs, it is just a natural thang! If the burping becomes something you notice all the time, or with other GI distress in your dog, it could be indicative of something more serious.
So when you hear your dog let out a nice, big belch after they are done lapping some water up, you can smile and know that is just one of the little idiosyncrasies that make them who they are!
References
1) Mueller RS, Olivry T, Prélaud P. Critically appraised topic on adverse food reactions of companion animals (2): common food allergen sources in dogs and cats. BMC Vet Res. 2016 Jan 12;12:9. doi: 10.1186/s12917-016-0633-8. PMID: 26753610; PMCID: PMC4710035.
