Why Is My Dog’s Stomach Making Weird Noises?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Behavior & Psychology

If you’ve ever been quietly enjoying a moment with your furry friend only to be interrupted by strange gurgling or rumbling sounds coming from their belly, you might find yourself wondering, “Why is my dog’s stomach making weird noises?” These unexpected sounds can be surprising and sometimes concerning for pet owners, prompting questions about your dog’s health and well-being. Understanding what’s behind these stomach noises is key to ensuring your canine companion stays happy and healthy.

Dogs, much like humans, can experience a variety of digestive sounds that range from normal to indicative of underlying issues. These noises can occur for several reasons, including digestion, hunger, or even stress. While some stomach sounds are harmless and temporary, others might signal discomfort or health problems that require attention. Recognizing the difference between routine digestive noises and those that warrant concern is an important part of responsible pet care.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the common causes of stomach noises in dogs, what these sounds might mean, and when it’s time to consult a veterinarian. By gaining insight into your dog’s digestive health, you’ll be better equipped to respond appropriately and keep your four-legged friend feeling their best.

Common Causes of Stomach Noises in Dogs

Stomach noises, medically known as borborygmi, often occur due to the movement of gas and fluids through the gastrointestinal tract. In dogs, these noises can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from normal digestive processes to underlying health issues.

One of the most frequent causes is hunger. When a dog’s stomach and intestines are empty, the digestive muscles contract more forcefully, producing louder and more frequent sounds. This is a normal physiological response and usually occurs around feeding times.

Dietary changes are another common reason. Introducing new foods, feeding table scraps, or sudden shifts in diet can disrupt the normal digestive process, leading to increased stomach noises. In some cases, food intolerances or allergies may also cause excessive gurgling as the gut reacts to certain ingredients.

Gastrointestinal upset, such as mild indigestion or gas buildup, can lead to louder and more persistent stomach noises. This can be triggered by eating too quickly, swallowing air, or consuming inappropriate items like grass or foreign objects.

Certain medical conditions can cause abnormal stomach noises, including:

  • Gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines)
  • Parasite infections (e.g., worms)
  • Intestinal obstruction or blockage
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Food allergies or sensitivities

Recognizing the pattern and accompanying symptoms is crucial for determining whether the noises are benign or indicative of a problem.

When to Be Concerned About Stomach Noises

While occasional stomach noises are often harmless, persistent or unusual sounds may signal a health concern that requires veterinary attention. Pay close attention to the following signs that accompany stomach noises:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Abdominal pain or bloating
  • Weight loss
  • Changes in bowel movements (frequency, consistency, color)

If these symptoms are present along with persistent stomach noises, it is important to seek veterinary advice promptly.

Symptom Possible Cause Recommended Action
Intermittent stomach gurgling with no other symptoms Normal digestion or mild hunger Monitor and ensure regular feeding schedule
Frequent loud gurgling with vomiting Gastroenteritis, infection, or foreign body Veterinary evaluation and possible diagnostic testing
Stomach noises with diarrhea and weight loss Parasites, IBD, or food intolerance Veterinary examination, fecal testing, dietary management
Abdominal bloating with loud noises and distress Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) or obstruction Emergency veterinary care immediately

How to Manage and Reduce Stomach Noises in Dogs

Several strategies can help minimize or prevent excessive stomach noises in dogs, especially when they are related to diet or digestion:

  • Maintain a consistent feeding schedule to avoid prolonged hunger.
  • Feed smaller, more frequent meals to aid digestion.
  • Avoid sudden changes in diet; introduce new foods gradually over 7-10 days.
  • Use slow feeder bowls or puzzle feeders if your dog eats too quickly.
  • Ensure access to fresh water at all times to facilitate digestion.
  • Limit access to inappropriate items such as garbage, plants, or toys that might be ingested.
  • Regular deworming and parasite prevention as recommended by your veterinarian.

In some cases, dietary supplements such as probiotics may support gut health by promoting a balanced intestinal microbiome. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing supplements to your dog’s diet.

Diagnostic Approaches for Persistent Stomach Noises

When stomach noises are persistent and accompanied by concerning symptoms, veterinary diagnostics are essential to determine the underlying cause. Common diagnostic procedures include:

  • Physical examination focusing on abdominal palpation.
  • Fecal analysis to detect parasites or bacterial overgrowth.
  • Blood tests to assess organ function and detect inflammation.
  • Abdominal imaging (X-rays, ultrasound) to identify obstructions, masses, or structural abnormalities.
  • Endoscopy in some cases to visualize the gastrointestinal lining and obtain biopsies.

The diagnostic approach is tailored to the dog’s clinical signs and history, enabling targeted treatment and management plans.

Common Causes of Stomach Noises in Dogs

Dogs’ stomachs often produce audible sounds, medically referred to as borborygmi, which can be caused by a variety of physiological and pathological conditions. Understanding the underlying reasons can help determine whether the noises are normal or a sign of a health issue.

Normal Causes:

  • Digestive Processes: As food, liquids, and gas move through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, muscular contractions known as peristalsis create sounds. These are typically rhythmic and coincide with digestion phases.
  • Hunger: When a dog’s stomach is empty, the intestines continue to produce sounds due to increased motility and the presence of digestive juices, signaling the need for food.
  • Swallowed Air: Dogs that eat rapidly or pant heavily may swallow excess air, which moves through the GI tract and contributes to gurgling noises.

Potentially Concerning Causes:

  • Gastrointestinal Upset: Inflammation or irritation from dietary indiscretion, food intolerance, or infections can increase intestinal activity and produce abnormal noises.
  • Gas and Bloating: Excessive gas accumulation due to fermentation of undigested food or bacterial overgrowth results in loud stomach noises and discomfort.
  • Parasites: Intestinal parasites can disrupt normal digestion and cause increased motility and noise.
  • Obstruction or Foreign Bodies: Partial blockages slow or alter GI motility, often accompanied by distinct, irregular noises and other clinical signs.
  • Other Medical Conditions: Disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis, or gastroenteritis often present with stomach noises alongside vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.

How to Differentiate Between Normal and Abnormal Stomach Noises

Identifying whether the stomach noises are a cause for concern involves observing additional symptoms and the context in which the noises occur.

Criteria Normal Stomach Noises Abnormal Stomach Noises
Timing Often when hungry or shortly after eating Persistent or occurring with other symptoms
Sound Quality Soft, rhythmic gurgling Loud, irregular, or excessive rumbling and growling
Associated Symptoms None or mild thirst/hunger Vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, lethargy, pain
Duration Temporary and resolves with feeding Persistent or worsening over time
Behavioral Changes Normal appetite and activity Decreased appetite, restlessness, or signs of discomfort

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Prompt veterinary evaluation is recommended if stomach noises are accompanied by any of the following:

  • Repeated vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
  • Signs of abdominal pain such as whining, restlessness, or guarding the belly
  • Persistent bloating or distension of the abdomen
  • Significant changes in appetite or water intake
  • Weight loss or lethargy
  • Visible signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, decreased skin elasticity)
  • History of ingesting foreign objects or toxins

Early intervention can prevent complications such as dehydration, intestinal obstruction, or systemic infection. A veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination, possibly supplemented by diagnostic tests like blood work, fecal analysis, abdominal ultrasound, or X-rays to identify the cause.

Supporting Your Dog’s Digestive Health to Minimize Stomach Noises

Maintaining a healthy digestive system can reduce the frequency and intensity of stomach noises in dogs. Consider the following best practices:

  • Consistent Feeding Schedule: Feed your dog at regular times to avoid prolonged fasting that may increase stomach growling.
  • Balanced Diet: Provide a nutritionally complete diet appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and health status.
  • Avoid Sudden Dietary Changes: Gradually introduce new foods to prevent gastrointestinal upset.
  • Portion Control: Overfeeding can cause indigestion and gas production, while underfeeding may lead to increased hunger noises.
  • Slow Feeding Methods: Use puzzle feeders or slow-feed bowls to reduce swallowed air and improve digestion.
  • Regular Deworming: Follow a veterinarian-recommended parasite control program.
  • Hydration: Ensure access to fresh water at all times to support normal GI function.

Expert Insights on Why Your Dog’s Stomach Is Making Weird Noises

Dr. Emily Hartman (Veterinarian, Canine Gastroenterology Specialist). “Weird stomach noises in dogs, medically known as borborygmi, often indicate normal digestive activity, such as gas moving through the intestines. However, persistent or loud noises can signal gastrointestinal upset caused by factors like dietary indiscretion, food intolerance, or mild inflammation. It is important to monitor your dog’s behavior and appetite alongside these sounds to determine if veterinary evaluation is necessary.”

Dr. Marcus Liu (Animal Nutritionist, Pet Health Institute). “Noises from a dog’s stomach are frequently related to the digestion process and can be influenced by what and when the dog last ate. Sudden dietary changes, insufficient fiber, or eating too quickly can cause increased gurgling and rumbling. Ensuring a balanced diet with appropriate fiber content and feeding smaller, more frequent meals can often reduce these unusual sounds.”

Dr. Sarah Bennett (Veterinary Internal Medicine Specialist). “While occasional stomach noises are normal, abnormal sounds accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or abdominal pain may indicate underlying conditions such as gastrointestinal infections, parasites, or inflammatory bowel disease. Prompt veterinary assessment is crucial in these cases to diagnose the cause and initiate appropriate treatment.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does my dog’s stomach make gurgling or rumbling noises?
These noises, known as borborygmi, are caused by the movement of gas and fluids through the intestines during digestion. They are typically normal and indicate active gastrointestinal motility.

When should I be concerned about my dog’s stomach noises?
If the noises are accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain, it may indicate an underlying health issue requiring veterinary evaluation.

Can diet affect the frequency or intensity of stomach noises in dogs?
Yes, sudden changes in diet, food intolerances, or ingestion of inappropriate items can increase gastrointestinal activity and cause louder or more frequent stomach noises.

Is excessive stomach noise a sign of digestive disorders in dogs?
Excessive or persistent stomach noises can be a symptom of digestive disorders such as gastritis, inflammatory bowel disease, or intestinal parasites, and should be assessed by a veterinarian.

How can I reduce my dog’s stomach noises at home?
Maintaining a consistent, balanced diet, feeding smaller frequent meals, and avoiding table scraps can help minimize excessive stomach noises. Always consult a vet before making dietary changes.

Could stress or anxiety cause my dog’s stomach to make weird noises?
Yes, stress and anxiety can affect gastrointestinal function, leading to increased stomach noises and digestive upset in some dogs. Managing stress through routine and environmental enrichment may help.
In summary, a dog’s stomach making weird noises is often a normal physiological response caused by digestion, hunger, or the movement of gas and fluids within the gastrointestinal tract. However, persistent or unusually loud stomach noises can sometimes indicate underlying issues such as dietary indiscretion, food intolerance, gastrointestinal upset, or more serious health conditions like infections or inflammation. Understanding the context and accompanying symptoms is crucial in determining whether these noises are benign or warrant veterinary attention.

Key takeaways emphasize the importance of monitoring your dog’s overall behavior, appetite, and stool quality alongside the stomach noises. Occasional gurgling or rumbling is typically harmless, especially if your dog is otherwise healthy and active. Conversely, if the noises are accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or signs of pain, prompt consultation with a veterinarian is essential to diagnose and address any potential health problems.

Maintaining a consistent feeding schedule, providing a balanced diet, and avoiding sudden dietary changes can help minimize gastrointestinal disturbances that lead to stomach noises. Additionally, ensuring your dog has access to fresh water and regular exercise supports healthy digestion. By staying observant and proactive, pet owners can effectively manage their dog’s digestive health and ensure timely intervention when necessary.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.