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Increased Bowel Sounds in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days

ORANGE for severe abdominal Pain, repeated Vomiting, blood in the stool, marked abdominal distension, or apathy; RED for signs of shock or suspected ileus/GDV.

Unsure about what’s wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our Symptom Checker for more clarity

Definition

Increased bowel sounds in dogs are unusually loud or frequent noises from the digestive tract, often described as “stomach growling.” These sounds are caused by the movement of gases and fluids in the intestines.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

A dog’s digestive tract is a complex system made up of several organs that work together to break down food and absorb nutrients. This system includes the stomach, small and large intestines, as well as various glands that secrete digestive enzymesEnzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate specific chemical reactions in the body without being consumed. They play a crucial role in virtually all physiological processes..

Bowel sounds are mainly produced by peristalsis—the wave-like movement of the intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. muscles that transports food through the digestive tract. During this process, gases are produced and moved, which can lead to the characteristic sounds.

A wide range of factors can lead to increased bowel sounds. These include increased gas production due to certain foods or Feed intolerances, stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., sudden food changes, or increased intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. activity due to infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or Inflammatory conditions.

From a scientific perspective, the most common causes of increased bowel sounds in dogs are gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. disorders. These include acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. infestation, or even serious problems such as IntestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. obstructionobstruction refers to the blockage or narrowing of a hollow organ or canal, which hinders the normal flow of liquids or gases. In dogs and cats, an obstruction can occur in the digestive tract, airways, or urinary tract and often requires immediate medical treatment. or tumors.

A dietary change or eating unsuitable food can also increase bowel sounds. Some dogs are sensitive to certain ingredients or additives in their food, which can lead to excessive gas production and therefore louder sounds.

Typical accompanying symptoms

DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.: Frequent and loose to watery bowel movements, often accompanied by increased bowel sounds as the intestines work harder to transport the contents faster.
Vomiting: Vomiting can occur together with increased bowel sounds, especially if a gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or a Feed intolerance is present.
Flatulence: Excessive gas production can lead to flatulence, which can manifest as increased bowel sounds and a bloated abdomenThe abdomen, also known as the abdominal cavity, is the part of the body located between the rib cage and the pelvis. It houses several important organs, including the stomach, liver, kidneys, intestines, and spleen..
Loss of appetite: If a dog has digestive discomfort, it may refuse to eat or eat less than usual.
AbdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain: A dog with abdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. discomfort may feel unwell, whine, or adopt a hunched posture.
Weight loss: With chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. digestive problems, Weight loss can occur because the dog does not absorb enough nutrients.

When to see a vet?

A veterinarian should definitely be consulted if the increased bowel sounds are accompanied by serious symptoms such as persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. or vomiting, blood in the stool or vomit, severe abdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain, or a severely distended abdomenThe abdomen, also known as the abdominal cavity, is the part of the body located between the rib cage and the pelvis. It houses several important organs, including the stomach, liver, kidneys, intestines, and spleen..

Even if the bowel sounds persist for a longer period or the dog’s condition suddenly worsens, a veterinary visit is recommended. Especially in young, older, or medically vulnerable dogs, you should act quickly.

Sudden Weight loss or a change in the dog’s behavior, such as lethargy or apathyApathy refers to a state of indifference and reduced interest or lack of emotional involvement in activities or events that would normally arouse interest., are also signs that should not be ignored and require a veterinary examination.

Symptom recognition for the pet owner and veterinary diagnostic procedure

For the pet owner, it is important to recognize the dog’s increased bowel sounds and observe whether other symptoms occur. Keeping a diary of feeding times, the food given, and any symptoms can be helpful for diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..

The veterinarian will usually take a thorough medical history and ask about feeding habits, changes in diet, the dog’s environment, and the onset of symptoms. A physical examination of the dog, including palpationPalpation is an examination method in which the condition of body tissues is assessed by feeling them with the hands. It is used to identify swelling, pain, or other abnormalities. of the abdomenThe abdomen, also known as the abdominal cavity, is the part of the body located between the rib cage and the pelvis. It houses several important organs, including the stomach, liver, kidneys, intestines, and spleen., may also be performed.

Additional diagnostic tests may include blood tests, stool samples, and imaging such as X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions. or ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. to determine the cause of the increased bowel sounds. These tests help identify possible infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., organ dysfunctionDysfunction refers to an impaired or abnormal function of an organ or system in the body. This can be due to diseases, disorders, or damage and can affect the quality of life., or structural problems in the digestive tract.

What the pet owner can do and professional therapy options

As a first measure, the pet owner should ensure that the dog has access to fresh water to ensure adequate hydration, especially if diarrhea or vomiting is present.

A temporary fast of 12–24 hours can give the dog’s digestive system a chance to settle. After that, you can slowly reintroduce easily digestible meals, such as boiled chicken and rice.

It is advisable to avoid sudden food changes and instead make gradual changes so as not to overload the dog’s digestive tract. Avoiding table scraps or unsuitable food can also be helpful.

For recurring problems or uncertainties / disorientation, a veterinarian should be consulted to determine the best possible treatment and nutrition for the individual dog and to rule out serious health problems.

Outlook on current research

Current scientific research on increased bowel sounds in dogs focuses on better understanding the exact mechanisms and causes behind these audible phenomena. Researchers are analyzing the role of the gut microbiota—the microorganisms living in the intestines—and their influence on sound production. It is believed that an imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. in the microbial populationIn veterinary medicine, the term population refers to a group of animals of a particular species living in a specific geographic area or environment. can cause increased gas production and thus louder sounds. Using advanced techniques such as metagenomics, scientists are trying to identify specific bacterial species associated with this symptom.

Another focus of research is examining how feeding influences bowel sounds in dogs. Various studies have shown that certain diets—especially those high in fiber or specific carbohydrates—can increase fermentation in the intestines, leading to louder sounds. Researchers are investigating which dietary adjustments might help minimize these sounds and are trying to develop nutrition plans that promote a healthy balance between nutrient intake and gut health.

Advances in diagnostic imagingDiagnostic imaging includes medical procedures that create images of the inside of the body to diagnose, monitor, or treat diseases and injuries. Examples include X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). make it possible to observe and measure intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. movements in dogs more precisely. High-tech ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. devices and other non-invasive imaging methods are used to analyze intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. motility in real time. These technologies help to better understand the causes of increased bowel sounds by showing how food and gases move through the gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. tract and which physiological processes are taking place. Such studies could lead to new therapeutic approaches to relieve symptoms.

In addition, the genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. to increased bowel sounds is also being investigated. Some studies suggest that certain dog breeds are more prone to this symptom due to genetic factors. In the long term, research in this area could lead to genetic tests to identify dogs at higher risk for these and related digestive problems. Research into stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. and its effect on bowel sounds is also a current topic, as stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. has been shown to influence intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. motility.

Bringing all these research findings together could ultimately lead to a more comprehensive and holistic view of the causes and treatment approaches for increased bowel sounds. This could not only improve the quality of life of affected dogs, but also help pet owners develop a better understanding of their pets’ needs.

Frequently asked questions

1. What are increased bowel sounds in dogs?

Increased bowel sounds, also called borborygmi, are loud—often gurgling—noises caused by the movement of gases and fluids in a dog’s digestive tract. These sounds may occur more frequently and more loudly than usual with certain health conditions or feeding habits.

2. Are increased bowel sounds normal in dogs?

To some extent, bowel sounds are normal and indicate digestive activity. However, if the sounds are unusually loud or frequent, this may indicate a health problem or a nutritional disorder. It is advisable to consult a veterinarian if the symptom persists.

3. What factors can cause increased bowel sounds in dogs?

Various factors can lead to increased bowel sounds, including dietary changes, stress, infection, parasites, food intolerances, or digestive disorders. Excessive gas formation due to certain feeds can also play a role.

4. Can increased bowel sounds be painful in dogs?

Increased bowel sounds themselves are not necessarily painful, but they can indicate an underlying problem that causes discomfort or Pain. If, in addition to the sounds, a dog shows signs of Pain such as Restlessness, loss of appetite, or Vomiting, veterinary advice should be sought.

5. How can you prevent increased bowel sounds in dogs?

A balanced diet, regular feeding times, and avoiding stressful situations can help minimize increased bowel sounds. It is also important to check the dog regularly for parasites and to ensure it does not receive any foods it cannot tolerate.

6. When should you see a veterinarian?

If increased bowel sounds are accompanied by other symptoms such as Diarrhea, Vomiting, loss of appetite, or Behavioral changes, you should see a veterinarian. Even if the symptom occurs suddenly and severely, medical advice is recommended.

7. Can certain foods cause increased bowel sounds?

Yes, some foods—especially those that are hard to digest or lead to increased gas production—can cause increased bowel sounds. These include high-fiber foods, dairy products (in lactose intolerance), and certain types of vegetables.

8. Do stress and anxiety play a role in increased bowel sounds?

Yes, stress and anxiety can influence intestinal motility and lead to increased bowel sounds. Dogs often react sensitively to changes in their environment or routine, which can affect their digestion.

9. Can a change in diet help reduce the noises?

Adjusting the diet can help reduce the sounds, especially if they are caused by food intolerances or an unbalanced diet. A veterinarian or a pet nutrition specialist can help create a suitable feeding plan.

10. Are certain dog breeds more susceptible to increased bowel sounds?

Yes, some dog breeds may be more prone to digestive problems and related symptoms such as increased bowel sounds due to genetic predispositions or their physical characteristics. Breeds with sensitive digestive systems or those prone to Flatulence may be affected more often.