Why is my dog’s stomach gurgling?
Hearing noises coming from your dog’s stomach can be a little unnerving. That rumbling, gurgling sound, known as borborygmi, is pretty common in dogs, and it’s often just a normal part of their digestive process.
But sometimes, those stomach sounds are a sign of something else going on. This article will explore the common reasons behind a gurgling stomach in dogs, including when you should be concerned and when it’s safe to wait it out. We’ll help you understand the difference between normal digestive noises and signs that it’s time to call your vet.
Decoding the Sounds: What Do Different Dog Stomach Noises Mean?
Just like in people, dogs’ digestive systems make all kinds of noises. Here’s a rundown of what those sounds may mean:
Normal Digestive Sounds
Gurgling usually means that fluid is moving around as your dog digests their food. Peristalsis — the muscle contractions that push food through the digestive tract — naturally make noise.
Rumbling is another common sound that’s associated with digestion. It can sound like a rolling wave.
When Noises Become a Concern
If your dog’s stomach is making noises that are louder, more frequent, or somehow different from what you’re used to hearing, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them.
Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of these symptoms along with the gurgling noises:
- Changes in appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Signs of pain
If the loud noises are happening repeatedly, and if your dog seems restless or doesn’t want to eat, it’s probably time to schedule a visit with the vet.
Common culprits: Everyday reasons for stomach gurgling
Sometimes, the reasons for a dog’s gurgling stomach are fairly benign. Here are a few everyday reasons you might hear rumbling coming from your dog’s abdomen.
Hunger and empty stomach
Just like with humans, a dog’s stomach will sometimes gurgle when it’s empty and contracting. Those hunger pangs are a normal physiological response and are usually nothing to worry about. In most cases, the gurgling will stop as soon as the dog eats something.
Dietary indiscretions and changes
Has your dog recently gotten into the trash? Or has the dog food recently changed? New foods or changes in diet can sometimes upset a dog’s digestive system, leading to a gurgly stomach. To prevent upset stomachs from new food, make changes to your dog’s diet slowly and gradually.
Rich, fatty foods are also more likely to cause stomach upset and gurgling.
Eating habits
If your dog gobbles down their food too quickly, they may swallow air along with the food, which can lead to a gurgling stomach. You can slow your dog down by using puzzle bowls or slow-feeder bowls, which are designed to prevent dogs from eating too quickly and swallowing air. Swallowed air can also cause bloating and discomfort.
When gurgling signals a problem: Underlying medical conditions
Sometimes, a noisy tummy is a sign that something’s not quite right. Here are a few conditions that can cause increased gurgling:
Gastrointestinal disorders
Gurgling can be a symptom of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which causes chronic inflammation. If your dog has IBD, you may also notice vomiting and diarrhea.
Another, more serious condition is hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE), which comes on suddenly and causes bloody stool and vomiting.
Intestinal parasites and infections
Parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and giardia can throw off your dog’s digestion and cause a noisy stomach. The best way to prevent this is to keep your dog on a regular parasite prevention program.
Bacterial or viral infections can also inflame your dog’s GI tract and cause gurgling.
Intestinal blockage
If your dog ingests a foreign object, such as a toy or piece of clothing, it can cause a blockage in the intestine. Symptoms of a blockage include vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. This is a serious situation that requires immediate veterinary care.
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
Bloat is a life-threatening condition that’s more common in large breed dogs. In bloat, the stomach fills with gas and can twist, cutting off the blood supply to the stomach and other organs. Bloat requires immediate veterinary intervention.
Practical solutions: How to help your dog’s gurgling stomach
If your dog’s experiencing a gurgling stomach, here are a few things you can try at home to ease their discomfort.
Dietary management
- Offer a bland diet. Plain, cooked chicken and rice can be easy on your dog’s digestive system. You can also try plain canned pumpkin.
- Feed smaller, more frequent meals. This can help prevent overloading the digestive system.
- Avoid table scraps and sudden dietary changes. It’s best to transition to new foods slowly, and avoid giving your dog food from your plate.
Digestive aids
- Consider probiotics. Probiotics can help support healthy gut bacteria, especially in dogs prone to gas. There are digestive support supplements and dog-specific probiotics available.
- Ensure adequate hydration. Make sure your dog always has access to fresh water.
Lifestyle adjustments
- Encourage regular exercise. Regular exercise can promote healthy digestion. Try taking your dog for gentle walks after they eat, but avoid vigorous activity right after a meal.
- Supervise chewing on toys and bones. This can help prevent your dog from swallowing pieces of toys or bones, which could cause digestive upset.
Key Takeaways
A gurgling tummy is often just a sign that your dog’s digestive system is doing its job, but it can also point to a more serious problem. Usually, a little gurgling on its own isn’t cause for alarm.
It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s overall behavior and look for any other symptoms. The type of noise can also provide clues. You could describe a gurgle as a more fluid sound, while a rumble might have a rolling pattern.
If your dog seems to be in pain or distress, or if they’re vomiting, have diarrhea, or you think they might have bloat or an obstruction, seek veterinary care right away.
When in doubt, it’s always best to check with your vet. They can help you figure out what’s going on and make sure your furry friend gets the care they need.