Ask Dr. Paola- Burps, Rolling in Dirt & Begging (June 30, 2025)

Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog’s health and well-being.

Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your dog, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your canine companion. ‎Have‎ a ‎question? Send it in here!

Help! My Dog Has Big Burps!

“Dear Dr. Paola,

My dog Sam lets out big burps after meals, sometimes louder than any person I know. Should I be worried?”  – Greg

Hi Greg,

Thanks for your question. In many cases, a dog’s post-meal burping is simply a result of gulping air while eating. Especially if Sam is a fast eater or, like most dogs, very enthusiastic about food. Dogs can swallow air when they eat quickly, drink water right after eating, or even when they’re a little anxious or overexcited during mealtime. That air needs to escape, and burping is one of the body’s natural ways to do that. Think of it like a pressure valve opening to keep everything functioning smoothly inside. You might also be familiar with what happens to us humans after drinking a fizzy soda.

If Sam is otherwise healthy, with normal appetite and energy levels, and no signs like bloating, retching, or discomfort after meals, the burping is likely harmless. Still, it’s worth slowing his eating pace to reduce the amount of air he swallows. You could try a slow-feeder bowl, spread his food on a lick mat or flat surface, or use puzzle feeders to make mealtime more gradual and engaging. You could also try breaking his daily food allowance into more frequent, smaller meals, and always ensure that he’s calm during feeding.

If you ever notice changes in Sam’s behavior after eating, such as restlessness, a taut or distended belly, or refusal to eat, those could be early signs of something more serious, like gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), especially in broad-chested breeds. In such cases, prompt veterinary attention is essential; GDV is a medical emergency. Otherwise, Sam’s burps are likely harmless, and making some small mealtime adjustments can reduce them. If you are ever in doubt or would like to have a vet help you plan his food enrichment, give us a quick call at PangoVet. We would be delighted to help you.

Best, Dr. Paola

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Help! Can Dogs Love to Roll in Stinky Things!

“Hi Dr. Paola,

My dog Monkey always rolls in the smelliest stuff he can find on walks. Why does he do this, and how do I stop it? “ – John

Hi John,

If it helps, know that you are not alone. This is a very common behavior among canines. Monkey’s stink-rolling, while understandably frustrating (and definitely unpleasant for your nose), is actually quite natural from a canine perspective.
Scientists believe that dogs roll in strong-smelling materials as a way to mask their own scent. This instinct goes back to their wild ancestors, who may have used pungent smells to camouflage themselves from prey or rivals. Some experts also believe that dogs roll in scents to bring information back to the pack, almost like saying, “Look what I found!” Think of it as your dog’s version of social media. A recently published study with wolves suggests that novel or unfamiliar odors, especially the really pungent ones, are most likely to trigger scent‐rolling behavior. So it’s you against nature here, but there are ways to discourage or prevent this behavior; consistency and management are key.

Keep Monkey on a leash during walks so you can redirect him before he reaches that enticing patch of who-knows-what. Teach a reliable “leave it” cue, rewarding him generously with treats or play when he responds. Carrying high-value treats that are more appealing than whatever he’s eyeing on the ground may also help. Remember that timing is essential; redirecting his attention before he commits to the roll is far more effective than trying to stop it mid-way. You can also support his natural need to explore scents through structured sniff walks or engaging in scent-based games at home. This enrichment satisfies their drive in a more hygienic way, giving Monkey the opportunity to let loose and follow his nose, just with fewer trips to the bath.

Good luck!

– Dr. Paola

Help! My Dog Won’t Stop Begging!

“Dear Dr. Paola,

Every time I eat, my dog Tippy just sits there watching me, silently begging with his eyes. What’s going on with that? ” – Marlea

Hi Marlea,

What you’re seeing with Tippy is a classic case of the infamous “puppy eyes.” This expression, with the big, soulful gaze and slightly furrowed brows, isn’t just heart-melting—it’s a deeply ingrained communication tool that dogs have fine-tuned through their long history alongside humans. Scientists have even found that dogs developed specific facial muscles just to make this expression more effective. Tippy is using those eyes like a silent request, hoping for a little nibble, without being demanding. It’s his way of asking nicely.

Although it might feel like he’s trying to guilt you, this behavior is typically reinforced by past experiences. If he’s ever been rewarded with a treat or a bite of your meal after giving you those pleading eyes, he’s learned that it works. Like a skilled negotiator using charm instead of pressure, he’s banking on your emotional response.

If you’d like to enjoy your meals without the audience, try giving Tippy something engaging, like a safe chew or a stuffed toy, just before you sit down to eat. That way, you’re offering a positive alternative and helping him develop a new, more relaxed routine during your meals. By the way, if you need some inspiration to keep for fun and engaging ways to fill Tippy’s toys, you can check out our suggestions here.

I hope Tippy enjoys them!

Dr.Paola