Have you ever heard strange rumbling noises coming from your dog’s tummy? Those gurgling sounds, known as borborygmi, are common and often normal.

Dog stomach gurgling usually happens during digestion, just like it does in humans.

While most stomach gurgling in dogs is harmless and related to normal digestion or swallowing air during eating, excessive or persistent gurgling might signal an underlying issue that needs attention.

Your dog’s digestive system works hard to process food, and sometimes these noises can be quite loud or concerning.

Diet changes, stress, or food allergies can make your dog’s tummy extra noisy.

If you notice these sounds along with other symptoms like vomiting or changes in appetite, it’s worth paying closer attention.

Key Takeaways

• Stomach gurgling is usually normal and related to digestion or swallowed air
• A bland diet of boiled chicken and rice can help settle your dog’s noisy tummy
• See your vet if gurgling is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhoea, or loss of appetite

Understanding Dog Stomach Gurgling

Stomach gurgling in dogs is a common digestive sound known as borborygmi that occurs when gas and fluid move through your pet’s intestines. These noises range from quiet rumbles to loud gurgles.

Normal Digestive Sounds

Your dog’s tummy naturally makes sounds as it processes food and moves gas through the digestive system. These noises happen when your pet is hungry or digesting their meals.

The sounds might get louder right before mealtimes or when your dog is extra hungry. This is perfectly normal and shows their digestive system is working properly.

You’ll often hear more gurgling about 6-8 hours after your dog eats. This timing matches their natural digestive cycle.

Identifying Borborygmi

Borborygmus refers to the specific rumbling sounds coming from your dog’s tummy. Normal borborygmi are usually quiet and brief.

Listen for these common sounds:

• Gentle rumbling
• Soft gurgling
• Quiet swooshing noises

Warning signs to watch for:

• Very loud gurgling
• Non-stop rumbling
• Gurgling with other symptoms like:
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy

If you notice these warning signs, ring your vet for advice.

Most tummy gurgles are harmless, but it’s best to check when something seems off.

Common Causes of Gurgling

Recognising Warning Signs

Stomach gurgling with vomiting or diarrhoea needs immediate veterinary attention. These symptoms could point to serious health issues.

Watch for these red flags:

• Loss of appetite lasting more than 24 hours
• Lethargy or weakness
• Bloated or painful abdomen
• Blood in stool or vomit
• Excessive drooling
• Repeated dry heaving

If your dog shows any of these signs alongside stomach gurgling, don’t wait to seek help.

How Vets Diagnose Gastrointestinal Issues

Your vet will start with a physical examination and detailed history of your pet’s symptoms. They’ll feel your dog’s abdomen to check for pain or swelling.

Common diagnostic tools include:

• Blood tests
• Stool samples
• X-rays
• Ultrasound scans
• Endoscopy (in severe cases)

These tests help identify issues like parasites, pancreatitis, or blockages.

Treatment Options

Treatment varies based on the underlying cause. Your vet might prescribe:

Immediate Relief:

• Anti-nausea medicines
• Pain relief
• IV fluids for dehydration

Long-term Solutions:

• Special diets
• Probiotics
• Regular deworming
• Stress reduction techniques

For mild cases, your vet might suggest a 24-hour fast followed by a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice.

Always follow your vet’s treatment plan exactly as prescribed, and book follow-up appointments to monitor your dog’s recovery.

Prevention and Management

Taking care of your dog’s digestive health helps prevent stomach gurgling and keeps your pup comfortable. Simple daily habits and quick action when issues arise make a big difference.

Preventive Measures

Feed your dog smaller meals throughout the day instead of one large meal to reduce digestive stress. Keep meal times consistent.

Choose high-quality dog food and avoid sudden changes in diet. Introduce new foods gradually over 7-10 days by mixing increasing amounts with the old food.

Keep these items away from your curious pup:

• Table scraps
• Rubbish bins
• Garden chemicals
• Toxic plants
• Spoiled food

Ensure fresh water is always available to prevent dehydration. Regular exercise helps maintain healthy digestion.

Managing Minor Stomach Issues at Home

When you notice mild stomach gurgling, try these gentle solutions:

Give your dog’s tummy a 12-hour rest from food if they’re not keeping meals down. Offer small amounts of water frequently.

Switch to a bland diet:

• Plain boiled chicken
• White rice
• Small portions
• Feed every 4-6 hours

Monitor your dog’s behaviour and eating habits. Keep track of any changes in stool consistency or frequency.

When to Seek Professional Help

Ring your vet straight away if you notice:

• Excessive drooling
• Swollen or hard belly
• Repeated vomiting
• Blood in sick or poo
• Signs of pain
• Lethargy

Emergency symptoms like bloat need immediate attention. This condition can be life-threatening within hours.

Watch for ongoing digestive issues that don’t improve with home care. Your vet can check for underlying problems and provide proper treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dog stomach noises indicate digestive activity and changes in your pet’s gastrointestinal system. These sounds range from normal digestion to signs of potential health issues that may need veterinary attention.

Why does my dog’s stomach make gurgling noises?

Borborygmus, or stomach gurgling, happens when gas and fluids move through your dog’s digestive system. This is often a normal part of digestion.

Eating too quickly or swallowing air whilst eating can create extra bubbles in the stomach, leading to more gurgling sounds.

What should I do if my dog’s stomach is gurgling and they’re showing signs of discomfort?

Watch your pet closely for other symptoms like vomiting or changes in behaviour. If your dog shows signs of distress, withhold food for 12-24 hours but ensure they have access to fresh water.

A bland diet of boiled chicken and rice can help settle their tummy once they’re ready to eat again.

How can I help my dog when their stomach is gurgling and they’re refusing food?

Offer small amounts of water frequently to prevent dehydration. Ice cubes can be helpful if they’re reluctant to drink.

Wait until they show interest in food again, then start with tiny portions of easily digestible meals.

Is it normal for a dog’s stomach to gurgle while they’re sleeping?

Some stomach gurgling during sleep is normal as digestion continues even when your dog is resting. The sounds might seem louder because the environment is quieter.

At what point should I become concerned about my dog’s gurgling stomach?

Contact your vet if gurgling is accompanied by severe symptoms like constant gurgling that won’t respond to home care, repeated vomiting, or lethargy.

If your dog seems unusually uncomfortable or the gurgling persists for more than 24 hours, seek professional advice.

What remedies can I provide to my dog for a gurgling stomach and diarrhoea?

Avoid fatty foods and new treats that might upset their stomach further.

Feed small, frequent meals of plain, cooked chicken and rice once they’re ready to eat.

Make sure fresh water is always available. Also, consider adding a pet-friendly probiotic to their food.