Why Is Your Dog’s Stomach Gurgling? Causes, Remedies, and When to Worry

If you’ve ever heard your dog’s stomach making strange gurgling, rumbling, or bubbling sounds, you’re definitely not alone — and it’s completely natural to wonder whether something is wrong. The good news is that most stomach gurgling in dogs is harmless and temporary, but there are times when those noises can signal something that deserves a closer look. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from common causes to when it’s time to call your vet.

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Common Causes

The medical term for those gurgling stomach sounds is borborygmi, and they occur when gas or fluid moves through your dog’s intestinal tract. Just like in humans, this can happen for a wide variety of reasons — some completely benign and others worth monitoring more carefully.

One of the most frequent culprits is simply a hungry stomach. When your dog hasn’t eaten in a while, their digestive system can become more active as it anticipates a meal, producing those familiar rumbling sounds. Similarly, eating too quickly, swallowing air, or switching to a new food can all cause temporary digestive upset and increased gut noise.

Here are some of the most common causes of stomach gurgling in dogs:

• Hunger or an empty stomach — Digestive acids and gas move more freely when the stomach is empty, creating noticeable sounds.
• Dietary changes or food sensitivities — Introducing a new food too quickly or feeding something that doesn’t agree with your dog can disrupt normal gut function.
• Gas and bloating — Eating too fast, chewing on bones, or consuming certain foods like beans or dairy can lead to excess gas in the digestive tract.
• Gastrointestinal upset or mild infections — Bacterial imbalances, mild viral infections, or eating something unusual on a walk can all cause temporary digestive disturbance.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other chronic conditions — In some cases, persistent gurgling may be associated with longer-term digestive issues that require veterinary diagnosis and management.

Most of the time, occasional gurgling is nothing to worry about. However, when it becomes frequent, loud, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s worth paying closer attention.

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Symptoms to Watch For

Stomach gurgling on its own is usually harmless, but your dog’s body is always communicating with you. Knowing which additional symptoms to watch for can help you determine whether this is a minor blip or something that needs professional attention.

Keep an eye out for any of the following signs alongside the stomach sounds:

• Vomiting or repeated attempts to vomit — Especially if your dog appears to be dry heaving or retching without bringing anything up.
• Diarrhea or loose, watery stools — Particularly if it lasts more than 24 hours or contains blood or mucus.
• Loss of appetite — A dog that suddenly refuses food, especially alongside a gurgling stomach, may be feeling more than just a little off.
• Lethargy or unusual weakness — If your normally energetic dog seems tired, withdrawn, or reluctant to move, take note.
• Abdominal bloating or a distended belly — A swollen, hard, or visibly enlarged abdomen is a serious warning sign that requires immediate veterinary attention.
• Excessive drooling or signs of nausea — Lip licking, yawning repeatedly, or drooling more than usual can all indicate nausea.
• Restlessness or inability to get comfortable — This is particularly important if your dog is pacing, stretching repeatedly, or seems anxious without an obvious reason.

If your dog is showing any combination of these symptoms, don’t wait to see if things improve on their own. Trust your instincts — you know your dog better than anyone.

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What You Can Do at Home

For mild stomach gurgling without any accompanying symptoms, there are several gentle, practical steps you can take at home to help your dog feel more comfortable.

Offer a small, bland meal. If your dog’s stomach has been empty for a while, a small portion of plain boiled chicken and white rice can help settle things down. Avoid rich, fatty, or heavily seasoned foods, as these can make digestive upset worse.

Slow down mealtime. If your dog tends to inhale their food, consider investing in a slow feeder bowl or a puzzle feeder. Eating too quickly causes your dog to swallow excess air, which contributes directly to gurgling and gas.

Make dietary transitions gradually. If you’ve recently switched your dog’s food, try transitioning more slowly by mixing the old and new food over seven to ten days. This gives your dog’s digestive system the time it needs to adjust without becoming overwhelmed.

Ensure fresh water is always available. Hydration supports healthy digestion, and dogs that are even mildly dehydrated can experience digestive slowdowns that cause discomfort and noise.

Keep their routine consistent. Dogs thrive on routine, and irregular feeding schedules or sudden changes in activity can sometimes throw off their digestive rhythm. Feeding your dog at the same times each day can make a meaningful difference.

Avoid giving your dog over-the-counter human antacids or medications without first checking with your vet, as some of these can be harmful to dogs.

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When to See a Vet

While mild stomach gurgling is usually nothing serious, there are certain situations where veterinary care is not just recommended — it’s urgent.

Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if your dog has a visibly bloated or distended abdomen, is retching without vomiting, or seems to be in significant pain. These can be signs of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat, which is a life-threatening condition that can progress rapidly. Large and deep-chested breeds like Great Danes, German Shepherds, and Standard Poodles are at higher risk, but any dog can be affected.

You should also contact your vet promptly if:

• The gurgling has been going on for more than 24 to 48 hours
• Your dog has not eaten for more than a day
• Vomiting or diarrhea is severe, persistent, or contains blood
• Your dog appears lethargic, weak, or is clearly in discomfort
• You suspect your dog may have eaten something toxic or foreign

When in doubt, it’s always better to make the call. A quick conversation with your vet can give you the clarity and peace of mind you need.

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How Pet Insurance Can Help

Digestive issues can sometimes lead to unexpected diagnostic tests, prescription diets, hospitalization, or even emergency surgery — and those costs can add up faster than you might expect. Having a solid pet insurance plan in place means you can focus on getting your dog the care they need rather than worrying about the bill.

Protective Care: Get a free pet insurance quote and protect your dog today

For times when you need immediate guidance from a licensed veterinarian without leaving home, telehealth services can be a lifesaver.

For more clinical details on canine health, you can refer to the professional guidelines from the Merck Veterinary Manual.

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Stomach gurgling is one of those things that can sound alarming but is very often just your dog’s body doing its normal, sometimes noisy, work. With a little attention, a bland meal, and a watchful eye, most dogs bounce back quickly and feel just fine. That said, you know your dog best — and whenever something feels off, reaching out to your veterinarian is always the right call.