Help! My Dog Has Terrible Gas! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“ Hello, my dog was passing really stinking gas after Thanksgiving dinner. I had given her some turkey broth with her dog food and also gave her the ham bone. I’m afraid it made her sick. When does the gas become an issue? ” – Mercy (Mom to Lady Bella)
Quick Info about Lady Bella
Hi Mercy. I am sorry to hear that Lady Bella isn’t feeling her best. Dietary indiscretions are a common culprit for stinky gas and other gastrointestinal signs. Turkey broth, if it is plain and free of seasonings like onions or garlic, is generally safe. However, it is not recommended to share cooked ham bones with your dog. They can cause problems because they are high in fat, which is hard for dogs to digest, and they can splinter, causing injuries or even perforations on the delicate mouth and digestive organs. While gnawing on safe raw bones can have some benefits for a dog’s teeth, most vets recommend avoiding them due to the risk of ingestion. Dogs are not meant to consume bones, because bones are indigestible. Once inside your dog’s body, they are considered foreign bodies and could cause infections and even result in emergency procedures due to digestive blockages.
So given that you know that she consumed the ham bone, in her case, the stinky gas could be a sign of a serious issue. When something partially obstructs the digestive tract—such as a bone, toy, or other foreign object—it disrupts the normal passage of food and gas, which could lead to fermentation and the buildup of foul-smelling gas. There are different kinds and grades of obstructions, and they usually present other significant signs, including vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and a swollen or tense abdomen. If Lady Bella consumed the ham bone and is experiencing stinky gas, you shouldn’t hesitate to seek veterinary attention promptly. Obstructions can become life-threatening if not treated in time. A veterinarian can assess her condition by taking some abdominal X-rays to evaluate the situation and come up with the best approach. In most cases, resolution requires surgery.
Best of luck,
Dr. Paola