Can Dogs Burp? What’s Normal and When Should You Worry?

There are many canine behaviors that are specific to our furry friends. But there is one behavior that both humans and dogs partake in: burping. After scarfing up a favorite treat, you may hear your pup let out an occasional burp. While occasional burping is normal in humans, is it normal in dogs as well?

We want you to be as educated on your dog’s digestive health as possible. The canine burp is one topic you can be well versed in! In this article, we answer the question of why dogs burp, if it is normal, and when you should worry.

Let’s dive in!

What Is a Burp in Dogs?

We should first answer the question of what a burp is in the first place. When our canine friends burp, they are simply expelling excess air that has accumulated in their esophagus. This is often due to swallowing air while they are eating. It can also be a result of digestive complications as well.

Do Dogs Burp, And Is It Normal?

Just like me and you, our dogs will burp from time to time. If your pup seems to burp directly after meals, then this is a normal canine behavior!

As long as it’s not accompanied by GI symptoms, then it is likely a result of swallowing air while eating. GI symptoms include flatulence, diarrhea, vomiting, anorexia, or lethargy. Just as humans let out the occasional burp after they have eaten a big dinner, our dogs are no different.

When Should I Worry About My Burping Dog?

Though burping is usually nothing to worry about, there are situations in which you should take notice. Burping can be a sign of underlying digestive issues in some cases. It’s important to be aware of the abnormal symptoms so you can be on the lookout.

The first sign that your dog’s burping could point to an underlying digestive issue is if it happens frequently. This means not just after they have eaten a meal. Some digestive complications can lead to excessive burping in dogs. These include dietary intolerances, acid reflux, bacterial infections, and even inflammatory bowel disease.

We also suggest being on the lookout for the presence of other concerning symptoms. For example, if your dog is experiencing any lethargy, weakness, abdominal pain, or abdominal distension, we suggest having him seen by a vet immediately. Oftentimes, bloat in dogs (GDV) will lead the dog to attempt to vomit. Since he is unable to expel the contents of his stomach, it may seem like burping.

Overall, if you notice any excessive burping in your canine friend, or if they are experiencing any other digestive symptoms along with their burping, then we always suggest reaching out to your vet for guidance.

Why Does My Dog Burp All the Time?

So what if you have a dog that is always burping? If this is the case for the pup in your home, then we can offer you a couple suggestions!

First, if it seems like your dog only burps in the minutes after they eat, then this could just be due to them swallowing air when they eat, or even due to them eating too quickly. To try and combat this issue, we suggest feeding them out of a slow feeder bowl. This will force them to take their time as they eat and will hopefully cut down on their burping.

If your dog’s constant burping is not limited to the minutes after they consume a meal, then we suggest reaching out to your vet for guidance. This could be a sign of an underlying digestive issue for your furry friend, ranging from acid reflux to dietary intolerances. Having your dog assessed by your trusted vet could get to the bottom of their constant belching.

Final Thoughts

The occasional burp in our furry friends is typically nothing to worry about. Just be sure to lookout for any other digestive symptoms that accompany their burping, and if you are concerned, always reach out to your vet for guidance!

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