Hi. I adopted a poodle mix from our local animal shelter. He is a wonderful, spoiled little dog (craves any kind of attention!!) However, when he gets nervous or excited he belches in my face (or any face that happens to be close to him) Is this a poodle trait? I have no experience with this type of dog. thanks

-- Anonymous, August 28, 2001

Answers

I have a 2 year old male poodle who burps quite often. He's never done it in my face, but does it at least once a day. Mine doesn't seem to be nervous or excited when he burps, but just does it.

-- Anonymous, September 07, 2001

As long as your dog is eating normal, I wouldn't be too concerned. However, my Standard died of megaesophagus, which is a rare disease where the esophagus stops functioning, the muscle remains open instead of contracting like it is supposed to. Shortly before the diagnosis of this, my dog had a type of burping/acid reflex type of behavior. Soon thereafter, the dog could keep very little food down and took a turn for the worse. Please don't be alarmed, just make sure your dog always has a normal appetite. Good luck.

-- Anonymous, November 13, 2001

Our almost three year old, male, white, SP has burped after eating or drinking since we had him at about 9 weeks. He never burps in our faces though. It reminds us of a human, male after a few beers. Our boy doesn't seem to notice he has done anything. It can happen as he stretches. It cracks my daughter up. I too think it rather amusing, since he also likes to watch TV, especially certain sports, including golf and baseball.

My only concern is, if it we need to keep an eye open for bloat. Obviously, he is passing the gas.

--Mary Allen tempered@erols.com

-- Anonymous, March 19, 2002