Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My dog's gas smells like his new food. Is this a health concern?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 12 years and 7 months old | 65 lbs

My dog recently switched diets. He has a growth in his throat (biopsy results pending) so I switched to soft wet food. Hills science diet ID. His whole life he’s had terrible gas and now his gas smells EXACTLY like his food. Is this a sign he’s not getting nutrients or any other cause for concern?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Linda G,  MS, DVM

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 7th, 2020

Hello. This much gas is of concern, but it is not an indication that nutrients are not being utilized. Hills i/d is a high fiber food, and the intestinal bacteria may just be trying to adjust to the new diet. This might take several weeks. If the gas production is still overwhelming, I might try one of the hypoallergenic diets like the Prescription Diet z/d & see if this helps with the gas. Always remember to take your time to when switching diets taking 4-10 days to completely change over from the old to the new food. Hope this helps Oscar's little problem. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button