A lot of people tend to overlook their pup’s odors, shrugging them off with the excuse: “Hey, he’s a dog. What do you expect?” But, here’s the thing: Healthy and regularly washed dogs don’t smell bad. Sure, if you stick your nose deep into their fur then you’ll notice a slight aroma. But it shouldn’t be unpleasant.
Often time, stinky smells that linger on for weeks on end are a sign that something is wrong. So, if you notice a stench coming from your canine companion then it’s important to figure out what it is. Here are some common reasons dogs stink.
Yes, dog gas is more prevalent in certain breeds!
Some dog breeds are more prone to gas simply because of the way they are built. The pushed-in faces of the brachycephalic breeds, including Boston Terriers, Boxers, Bulldogs and Pugs, causes these dogs to swallow air while they eat, which can lead to excess gas in their digestive tracts. If you have a short-nosed breed, you understand the reality of life with dog gas (good thing they’re so cute!).
Is excessive flatulence bad for my dog?
Excessive canine flatulence can be an indication something is not right with your dog. Most times it happens when you switch your dog from one food to another.
It can also happen if your dog has been in the trash can and has eaten something that doesn’t agree with him. Your dog could also be suffering from a certain food intolerance.
Your dog’s digestive enzymes are not able to cope with the breaking down of certain fibers and complex carbohydrates.
When this happens, the bacteria are not able to digest and ferment the nutrients as efficiently. This results in larger amounts of gas building up which can then result in dog farts that smell like sulfur.
Excessive farting is often linked to a dietary issue and can be solved fairly quickly.
However, if you’re struggling to pinpoint the cause, it’s a good idea to speak to your vet. Your dog may have a food allergy, an inflammatory bowel disease or infection, or some other underlying GI condition.
What can I do to stop my dog’s stinky farts?
If your vet has ruled out any underlying health conditions, then you can assume your dog’s diet is the cause of his bad-smelling rotten egg farts. Here are some ways you can help your dog limit his stinky sulfur emissions (and clear the air around home).
Maybe the kibble you’re feeding your dog is too rich in protein and other sulfur-inducing ingredients. You could try switching him to a new diet. Make sure you do this slowly by introducing the new food in small quantities while phasing out the old food gradually.
If you change your dog’s diet immediately, his digestive system may rebel and lead to excessive farting. Let him acclimatize to the new food slowly, over a few days.
FAQ
Why do dogs farts smell like metal?
You may notice a strong metallic, fishy smell around your dog or house. This may mean that their anal glands are not emptying normally. Anal glands are two sacs that sit either side of the dog’s anus.
Why do my dogs farts smell like chemicals?
Why does my dog’s fart smell like sulfur?