5 Reasons Why Bulldogs Fart so Much (and How to Reduce the Potency)
Unlock the mystery of 'why bulldogs fart so much' with this guide. Learn about dietary impacts, the bulldog's anatomy, and useful tips to manage your bulldog's gas.
When you're a proud dog dad to an English Bulldog like Luna, you learn to embrace all her quirky characteristics—even the smelly ones! So, why do bulldogs fart so much? Let's dig into this gassy subject together and find out.
Life with Luna has been filled with joy, laughter, and, yes, an occasional stinky surprise. If you own a bulldog or are thinking about adopting one, you've probably wondered about their flatulence.
Trust me, it's normal to be curious, and there's actually a good explanation for it.
Why Do Bulldogs Fart So Much?
- Bulldogs' Unique Digestive System
- The Flat Face Dilemma
- Carb Overload
- Fat and Fibre Rich Foods
- Dairy Products
- Aerophagia (Swallowing Air)
- Bulldog Personality and Habits
The Anatomical Causes
Bulldogs' Unique Digestive System
Bulldogs aren't like other dogs; they're unique in many ways, especially when it comes to their digestive systems. While talking to my vet about Luna's farting adventures, I learned that bulldogs' stomachs are much smaller compared to their ancestors, the Old English Bulldog.
This means they have a bit more trouble digesting certain foods. Luna's delicate tummy is part of her charm, but it also makes her more prone to those smelly emissions.
The Flat Face Dilemma
Ever watched a bulldog eat? It's a spectacle.
Luna's flat face means she needs to work harder and faster to get food into her mouth. This can lead to a condition called aerophagia, where she swallows air with her food. More on that in a bit, but let's just say it contributes to the musical notes she plays with her backside.

The Dietary Factors
Carb Overload
Like us humans, bulldogs need carbohydrates for energy. But too many carbs? Hello, gas city!
Luna's diet used to be full of dry kibble, which I later found was overloaded with starch and grains. Switching to a more balanced diet of raw dehydrated food reduced her gassy tendencies considerably. I mean, she still has her moments, but it's nowhere near what it used to be.
Fat and Fibre Rich Foods
Balancing fats and fibres is essential for all dog breeds, especially for bulldogs. Luna loves her macronutrients, but some fatty foods have caused stinky toots in the past. Monitoring these has been crucial in keeping our home's air quality fresh.
Fermentable Food Items
Beans, broccoli, cabbage – they're not just fart-fuel for humans! Luna once got into a bowl of leftover beans, and, well, let's say the next few hours were eventful. Fermentable foods ferment in the body, leading to...you guessed it, more farting!
Dairy Products
Dairy is a no-go for bulldogs like Luna, as they are typically lactose intolerant. I learned this the hard way when I accidentally dropped some ice cream, and Luna cleaned up the mess. Her digestive system had its revenge later.
Behaviour and Other Factors
Aerophagia (Swallowing Air)
Aerophagia, that's the scientific name for "eating air," can lead to extra toots. Luna's habit of gobbling down her food sometimes causes her to swallow air, which has to come out somewhere. A slow-feeding dog bowl did wonders in this department. She still enjoys her food but without the added air.
Bulldog Personality and Habits
Bulldogs are as playful as they are gassy. Luna's playful nature, coupled with a bit of anxiety sometimes, contributes to her farting. But who can resist those adorably scrunched faces, even if they come with a built-in trumpet?
Managing the Flatulence
Diet Adjustments
Finding the right food for Luna made a world of difference. Experimenting with different brands and paying attention to ingredients helped reduce her farting and made her a happier pup.
I occasionally feed Luna dehydrated raw food, it can be a little pricey, but you get what you pay for - quality.
Monitoring and Understanding Your Bulldog
Understanding Luna's eating habits and recognizing signs of digestive distress made me more empathetic and better equipped to take care of her. Bulldogs require careful observation, and it's all worth it when you see their wagging tails.
Final thoughts
Bulldogs are unique, lovable creatures with sensitive stomachs and flat faces, making them more prone to farting. From Luna's diet to her quirky personality, understanding why she farts so much has been a journey filled with laughter, learning, and love.
So if you're a fellow bulldog dad, embrace the farting; it's part of the package. Just keep a window open, and maybe a scented candle handy. After all, life with a bulldog is never dull—especially with Luna around!