Why Does My Dog’s Stomach Make Noises? Understanding the Causes and What It Means

AvatarByWilliam Warren Behavior & Psychology

Have you ever been quietly enjoying a moment with your furry friend, only to be interrupted by unexpected gurgling or rumbling sounds coming from your dog’s stomach? These noises can be surprising and sometimes even a little concerning for pet owners. Understanding why your dog’s stomach makes noises is not only fascinating but also important for recognizing your pet’s overall health and well-being.

Stomach noises in dogs, often referred to as borborygmi, are quite common and can occur for a variety of reasons. From normal digestive processes to changes in diet or even underlying health issues, these sounds can provide valuable clues about what’s happening inside your dog’s body. While occasional stomach noises are usually harmless, persistent or unusual sounds might signal that something needs attention.

In this article, we’ll explore the common causes behind your dog’s stomach noises, what they might mean, and when it’s time to consult a veterinarian. By gaining a better understanding of these natural bodily sounds, you’ll be better equipped to keep your canine companion happy and healthy.

Common Causes of Stomach Noises in Dogs

Stomach noises in dogs, often referred to as borborygmi, result from the movement of gas and fluids through the gastrointestinal tract. While these sounds are usually normal, several underlying causes can lead to increased or unusual noises.

One common cause is hunger. When a dog’s stomach is empty, contractions increase in frequency and intensity to signal the need for food, producing audible rumbling. This is a normal digestive reflex.

Digestive disturbances can also cause stomach noises. These include:

  • Dietary changes: Abrupt changes in diet can upset the gut flora, leading to increased gas production and noises.
  • Eating too quickly: Dogs that gulp food rapidly may swallow excess air, causing gurgling sounds.
  • Food intolerances or allergies: Some dogs react to certain ingredients, leading to inflammation and increased gut motility.
  • Gastrointestinal infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can disrupt normal digestion, causing excessive noises and sometimes diarrhea or vomiting.
  • Stress or anxiety: Emotional stress can alter gut motility and increase stomach sounds.

In some cases, noises may indicate more serious conditions such as intestinal obstruction or inflammatory bowel disease, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Physiology Behind Stomach Noises

The digestive tract produces noises primarily through peristalsis—the rhythmic contractions that move food, liquid, and gas through the intestines. These movements mix the contents and propel them forward, which can create audible sounds.

Gas accumulation within the intestines plays a significant role. Gas arises from swallowed air or the fermentation of food by gut bacteria. As gas moves through the intestines, it causes the walls to vibrate, producing noises.

The loudness and frequency of stomach sounds depend on several factors:

  • The volume of gas and liquid present
  • The strength and coordination of intestinal contractions
  • The presence of obstructions or inflammation

The table below outlines typical stomach noise characteristics and their likely causes:

Noise Characteristic Likely Cause Associated Symptoms
Intermittent rumbling Normal digestion or hunger None or mild hunger cues
Frequent gurgling with loose stools Dietary upset, mild infection Diarrhea, mild discomfort
Loud, continuous noises with vomiting Gastrointestinal obstruction or severe inflammation Vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain
High-pitched or squeaky noises Gas buildup or spasms Bloating, discomfort

When to Be Concerned About Your Dog’s Stomach Noises

Not all stomach noises warrant immediate concern, but certain signs suggest the need for veterinary evaluation:

  • Persistent loud noises lasting more than 24 hours
  • Accompanying symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite
  • Abdominal bloating or visible pain when touched
  • Changes in stool consistency or color
  • Repeated episodes without an obvious cause

If your dog exhibits these signs alongside stomach noises, it is crucial to seek veterinary advice to rule out serious conditions such as intestinal blockage, pancreatitis, or severe infections.

Managing and Reducing Stomach Noises

Several strategies can help minimize stomach noises and promote digestive health:

  • Consistent feeding schedule: Feeding your dog at regular times helps regulate gut motility and reduces hunger-induced noises.
  • Appropriate diet: Use a balanced diet suited to your dog’s age, breed, and health status. Avoid sudden diet changes.
  • Slow feeding methods: Use slow feeder bowls or spread out meals to prevent gulping air.
  • Hydration: Ensure adequate water intake to facilitate digestion.
  • Probiotics: Adding probiotics may support healthy gut flora and reduce gas production.
  • Stress reduction: Provide a calm environment, as stress can impact digestion negatively.

If dietary or environmental adjustments do not improve the situation, consult your veterinarian for further diagnostic testing or treatment options.

Common Causes of Stomach Noises in Dogs

Stomach noises, medically referred to as borborygmi, are common in dogs and can arise from various physiological and pathological factors. Understanding these causes helps pet owners discern when such sounds are normal and when veterinary attention is necessary.

Normal Digestive Activity

The digestive tract naturally produces sounds as muscles contract to move food, liquid, and gas through the stomach and intestines. These sounds are often more noticeable when the stomach is empty or after eating, reflecting normal peristalsis.

Hunger

When a dog’s stomach is empty, the gastrointestinal (GI) tract continues to contract, causing louder and more frequent noises. This is a normal hunger signal and typically not a cause for concern.

Dietary Factors

Certain foods can increase gas production or alter digestion, leading to more pronounced stomach noises. Common dietary contributors include:

  • High-fiber ingredients
  • Sudden changes in diet
  • Foods that cause intolerance or mild allergies
  • Ingestion of non-food items or spoiled food

Gastrointestinal Upset or Illness

Stomach noises may indicate underlying GI disturbances such as:

  • Gastroenteritis or inflammation of the stomach/intestines
  • Parasites (e.g., worms, protozoa)
  • Food sensitivities or allergies
  • Infections or bacterial imbalances
  • Partial obstruction or motility disorders

Stress or Anxiety

Stress can affect GI motility and secretions, sometimes producing increased stomach sounds in dogs.

Cause Description Associated Signs
Normal Digestion Muscle contractions moving contents through the GI tract Occasional gurgling, especially on an empty stomach
Hunger Empty stomach causing increased motility and noise Restlessness, begging for food
Dietary Causes Foods causing gas or altered digestion Flatulence, mild bloating
GI Illness Inflammation, infection, parasites, or obstruction Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain
Stress Altered GI motility due to anxiety Restlessness, panting, behavioral changes

When to Consult a Veterinarian About Stomach Noises

While occasional stomach noises are typically harmless, certain signs indicate the need for professional evaluation.

Signs Warranting Veterinary Attention:

  • Persistent or loud stomach noises lasting more than 24-48 hours
  • Accompanying vomiting or diarrhea
  • Signs of abdominal pain such as whining, guarding, or reluctance to move
  • Loss of appetite or sudden changes in eating behavior
  • Visible bloating or distension of the abdomen
  • Signs of systemic illness such as lethargy, fever, or dehydration
  • Presence of blood in vomit or stool

Diagnostic Approach

A veterinarian will typically perform a thorough physical examination and may recommend:

  • Fecal analysis for parasites
  • Blood work to assess organ function and infection
  • Abdominal imaging (X-rays or ultrasound) to detect obstructions or abnormalities
  • Dietary history evaluation and possible food trials

Prompt veterinary assessment ensures identification and treatment of potentially serious conditions that could cause abnormal stomach noises.

Methods to Reduce Unusual Stomach Noises in Dogs

Several management strategies can help minimize stomach noises and improve digestive comfort:

  • Consistent Feeding Schedule: Feeding meals at regular times prevents prolonged fasting and excessive hunger-related noises.
  • Balanced Diet: Providing a nutritionally complete diet that is appropriate for the dog’s age, size, and health status supports optimal digestion.
  • Gradual Diet Changes: Introduce new foods slowly over 7-10 days to reduce digestive upset.
  • Hydration: Ensure the dog has constant access to fresh water to aid digestion.
  • Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes: Under veterinary guidance, these supplements may help stabilize gut flora and improve digestion.
  • Stress Reduction: Minimize anxiety-inducing situations and provide a calm environment.
  • Avoid Table Scraps and Non-Food Items: Prevent ingestion of inappropriate materials that can disrupt digestion or cause obstruction.

Expert Insights on Why Your Dog’s Stomach Makes Noises

Dr. Emily Hartman (Veterinarian, Canine Digestive Health Specialist). “Stomach noises in dogs, medically known as borborygmi, are typically caused by the natural movement of gas and fluids through the gastrointestinal tract. These sounds often occur when the stomach is empty or during digestion, and while usually normal, persistent or loud noises can indicate digestive upset or food intolerance.”

Dr. Marcus Lee (Animal Nutritionist, Pet Wellness Institute). “When a dog’s stomach makes noises, it often reflects the digestive process responding to food intake or hunger signals. In some cases, excessive gurgling can result from dietary imbalances, such as insufficient fiber or abrupt changes in diet, which disrupt normal gut motility and lead to increased audible stomach activity.”

Dr. Sofia Ramirez (Veterinary Gastroenterologist, University of Veterinary Medicine). “Noisy stomachs in dogs can be a sign of normal gastrointestinal function, but they may also indicate underlying issues such as gastrointestinal inflammation, infections, or malabsorption disorders. Careful observation of other symptoms alongside stomach noises is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does my dog’s stomach make gurgling or rumbling noises?
These noises, known as borborygmi, occur due to the movement of gas and fluids through the intestines during digestion. They are generally normal unless accompanied by other symptoms.

When should I be concerned about my dog’s stomach noises?
If the noises are persistent, loud, or accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it may indicate gastrointestinal distress or illness, warranting veterinary evaluation.

Can hunger cause my dog’s stomach to make noises?
Yes, hunger can stimulate stomach contractions and the release of digestive juices, resulting in audible stomach noises even when the stomach is empty.

Do certain foods cause increased stomach noises in dogs?
Some foods, especially those high in fiber or difficult to digest, can increase gas production and intestinal activity, leading to more pronounced stomach sounds.

How can I reduce my dog’s stomach noises?
Feeding smaller, more frequent meals, ensuring a balanced diet, and avoiding sudden dietary changes can help minimize excessive stomach noises.

Are stomach noises in puppies different from those in adult dogs?
Puppies may experience more frequent stomach noises due to their developing digestive systems and higher metabolism, but persistent or severe noises should still be assessed by a veterinarian.
stomach noises in dogs are generally a normal physiological response caused by the movement of gas and fluids through the gastrointestinal tract. These sounds, often referred to as borborygmi, can occur due to hunger, digestion, or minor gastrointestinal activity. However, persistent or unusually loud stomach noises may indicate underlying issues such as dietary intolerance, gastrointestinal upset, or more serious conditions like infections or blockages.

It is important for dog owners to observe accompanying symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in appetite, which may warrant veterinary evaluation. Maintaining a consistent feeding schedule, providing a balanced diet, and avoiding sudden dietary changes can help minimize excessive stomach noises. Additionally, ensuring your dog has access to fresh water and regular exercise supports healthy digestion.

Ultimately, while occasional stomach noises are typically harmless, attentive monitoring and timely consultation with a veterinarian are essential to address any potential health concerns. Understanding the causes and implications of your dog’s stomach noises empowers you to provide better care and promote your pet’s overall well-being.

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.