Help! My Dog Keeps Burping! (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 Dr. Paola!
My dog Lucy has become extremely burpy in the last year. She never really burped and then it seems like lately she is constantly burping throughout the day but really only when other people are around (Lucy does love attention lol). She’s on medication for epilepsy which is the only thing that’s changed for her. Is this normal?” – Kacey
Quick Info about Lucy
Hi Kacey, thank you for your question about Lucy. Her increase in burping, particularly with her epilepsy medication in the mix, is worth exploring. While some burping in dogs can be normal—just like us, they sometimes swallow air while eating, drinking, or during excitement, a noticeable increase in frequency or intensity may signal something else.
Epilepsy medications can sometimes impact the gastrointestinal system. Certain medications might cause mild acid reflux or alter the way food moves through the stomach, leading to burping. Lucy’s behavior of burping mainly around people could also indicate she’s learned how to get attention—it’s not uncommon for dogs to repeat behaviors that elicit a fun response from their humans!
However, it’s important to start by ruling out medical causes. Excessive burping can indicate issues like mild acid reflux, gastritis, or even swallowing extra air when excited (aerophagia). Since her medication is the only recent change, it would be a good idea to consult her vet to see if her medication could be affecting her digestion or if another underlying issue might be at play. Your vet may recommend adjustments to her medication, her diet, or might add something to help soothe her stomach.
In the meantime, try feeding her smaller, more frequent meals and ensuring she eats calmly to minimize air swallowing. You might want to try a slow feeder bowl for Lucy.
Best Wishes,
Dr. Paola