Everything Pup Parents Should Know About Bloat (GDV) In Dogs | Pupford

Bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition that affects many dogs, particularly large and giant breeds. It occurs when a dog’s stomach becomes excessively bloated with gas and then twists upon itself, blocking the normal flow of food, fluid, and air. This condition can cause rapid deterioration and death without immediate treatment.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the causes, risk factors, symptoms, prevention strategies, and treatment of bloat to help pup parents understand the severity of this issue and take the right steps to protect their dogs.

Table of Contents:

1. What is Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)?
2. Who is at Risk for Bloat?
3. Signs and Symptoms of Bloat
4. Myths About Bloat
5. Treatment for Bloat
6. Prevention of Bloat

What is Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus) in Dogs?

Bloat is a condition where the stomach becomes distended with gas or air. In the case of GDV, the stomach not only expands but also twists around itself.

The twisting of the stomach prevents gas and fluid from being released, which leads to a dangerous build-up of pressure inside the abdomen. The blood supply to the stomach is also cut off, leading to tissue damage and shock.

Who is at Risk for Bloat?

Certain breeds are more prone to developing bloat due to their size, shape, and body structure. Bloat is most commonly seen in large and giant breeds, especially those with deep chests and narrow waists. Some of the most common high-risk breeds include:

• Great Danes
• Saint Bernards
• Doberman Pinschers
• German Shepherds
• Rottweilers
• Weimaraners
• Boxers
• Basset Hounds
• Irish Setters

These breeds have larger stomachs that can more easily fill with gas, and their body shapes make it easier for the stomach to twist. While bloat can affect any dog, giant breeds are at the highest risk due to their size and anatomy.

Signs and Symptoms of Bloat

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of bloat early can save your dog’s life. The symptoms can appear suddenly and progress quickly, so it’s essential to act fast if you notice any of the following:

Abdominal Distention

One of the first signs of bloat is a noticeably swollen or bloated abdomen. The stomach may feel firm to the touch, and your dog may appear uncomfortable or in pain. The distention is caused by the accumulation of gas or fluid in the stomach.

Restlessness and Anxiety

Dogs with bloat often show signs of anxiety or restlessness. They may pace, try to lie down but can’t seem to get comfortable, or act unusually agitated. This behavior is usually due to pain and discomfort from the bloating.

Does your dog suffer from general anxiety? Learn more about the spectrum of fear, stress and anxiety in dogs.

Excessive Drooling

Excessive drooling is common in dogs with bloat. It occurs due to the nausea and discomfort caused by the stomach’s swelling and twisting. The dog may drool more than usual, often in an attempt to relieve the pressure in the stomach.

Unsuccessful Vomiting

One of the hallmark signs of bloat is the dog trying to vomit, but nothing comes up. This is often due to the stomach being twisted and obstructed, preventing the contents from exiting. Some dogs may also retch or gag repeatedly without producing any vomit.

Rapid Breathing or Panting

As the pressure from the bloated stomach increases, dogs may begin to breathe rapidly or pant excessively. This is a response to pain and the lack of oxygen due to the decreased blood flow to vital organs.

Weakness or Collapse

As bloat progresses, the dog’s condition will worsen, leading to symptoms of shock, such as weakness, lethargy, and even collapse. If your dog is showing signs of weakness or is unable to stand, it’s critical to seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Heart Rate Abnormalities

The increase in pressure and reduced blood flow to the organs can also affect the heart. Dogs with bloat may develop an abnormal heart rate, often faster than normal, and can eventually go into cardiac arrest if left untreated.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to act quickly and seek veterinary care immediately. Bloat is a medical emergency that requires rapid intervention to increase the chance of survival.

Myths About Bloat

Misinformation about bloat is widespread, and believing these myths can delay treatment or lead to risky decisions. Here are some common myths and the facts that dispel them:

"Only Large Dogs Get Bloat"

While bloat is more common in large and giant breeds, it can occur in any dog. Small and medium-sized dogs are not immune to this condition, although the risk is significantly lower.

"Exercise After Eating Always Causes Bloat"

While vigorous activity immediately after eating can increase the risk, it is not the sole cause of bloat. Genetics, feeding habits, and stress levels also play significant roles.

"Dogs Will Grow Out of the Risk of Bloat"

Bloat can occur at any age, although older dogs and deep-chested breeds are at higher risk. Preventive measures should be maintained throughout your dog’s life.

"You’ll Have Plenty of Time to React to Bloat"

Bloat can escalate rapidly. Once the stomach twists, blood flow is compromised, and the condition becomes life-threatening within hours. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial.

Treatment for Bloat

If you suspect your dog has bloat, you should immediately take them to an emergency veterinary clinic. Time is of the essence, and the sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of survival. The treatment for bloat generally follows these steps:

Decompression of the Stomach

The first step in treating bloat is relieving the pressure in the stomach. A veterinarian may use a tube to release gas from the stomach or insert a needle into the abdominal cavity to relieve the pressure. This step can provide immediate relief and help stabilize the dog.

Surgery (Gastropexy)

If the stomach has twisted (as in GDV), surgery is often required to untwist the stomach and return it to its normal position. In some cases, the veterinarian may recommend a gastropexy, a preventive surgery where the stomach is sutured to the abdominal wall to prevent future twisting.

Intravenous Fluids

Dogs with bloat often go into shock due to the loss of blood flow to their organs. Intravenous fluids are administered to help stabilize the dog and maintain hydration, as well as support circulation.

Monitoring and Recovery

After surgery or the decompression process, your dog will be closely monitored in the hospital for signs of complications. Recovery can take time, and your dog may require follow-up care, including changes to their diet and restrictions on physical activity.

Does your dog get stressed at the vet? Learn 7 tips here!

Prevention of Bloat

While there’s no surefire way to completely eliminate the risk of bloat, there are several strategies you can use to significantly reduce the likelihood of your dog developing this life-threatening condition.

Prevention focuses on controlling feeding habits, lifestyle factors, and considering surgical intervention for high-risk dogs.

Smaller, More Frequent Meals

Rather than feeding your dog one or two large meals a day, it’s better to divide their food into smaller, more frequent meals. This helps reduce the volume of food in the stomach at any given time, which can lower the risk of bloating.

For instance, if your dog typically eats two meals a day, consider feeding them three or four smaller meals. This also helps with digestion and minimizes the risk of stomach expansion from overloading.

Dogs with larger appetites, particularly those prone to gulping down their food, benefit from smaller, more controlled portions.

Learn about puppy feeding schedules and tips!

Slow Feeding Bowls

Many dogs, especially those prone to bloat, tend to eat quickly, swallowing large chunks of food and air. This can increase the chance of developing bloat.

To combat this, slow feeder bowls or puzzle feeders are excellent tools. These bowls have ridges, obstacles, or patterns that force dogs to slow down as they eat, preventing them from gulping air and reducing the chance of bloat.

In addition to slow feeder bowls, there are treat-dispensing toys and snuffle mats that help make mealtime more engaging and gradual, which is beneficial in reducing the likelihood of bloat.

Bonus! These tools also provide your pup with much needed mental enrichment 😊

Avoid High-Carbon Foods

Foods that cause gas or are highly fermentable can increase the risk of bloating. Some commercial dog foods contain a high percentage of fillers, such as corn, soy, or wheat, which can cause gas build-up in the stomach.

Check your dog’s food label to make sure it’s made with quality ingredients. Avoid foods that contain excessive amounts of grains and consider higher-quality protein sources that are easier to digest.

Learn what 10 ingredients you should avoid in dog treats!

Limit Water Intake Immediately After Eating

It’s common for dogs to drink large amounts of water after eating, which can increase the pressure on the stomach and potentially contribute to bloating.

It’s advisable to monitor your dog’s water intake after meals and prevent them from drinking large amounts too quickly. If you have a particularly thirsty dog, consider providing smaller amounts of water over a period of time instead of allowing them to drink too much at once.

Feed in a Calm Environment

Stress and excitement can lead to rapid eating or drinking, which increases the likelihood of bloat. Try to feed your dog in a quiet, calm environment without distractions. This will help your dog eat slowly and reduce anxiety around mealtime.

Dogs that are highly stressed or anxious tend to eat more quickly or show signs of distress after eating, which can lead to gastrointestinal problems, including bloat.

Related Reading: The Trifecta of Calm

Wait Before Exercising

Exercise directly after meals can increase the risk of bloat, as vigorous activity can cause the stomach to twist or bloat due to sudden movement or physical strain. If your dog has just eaten, wait at least 1–2 hours before engaging in any rigorous exercise or play. This allows the food to settle in the stomach and reduces the chances of the stomach twisting.

After meals, light walking is usually fine, but you should avoid any high-energy activities such as running, jumping, or playing fetch immediately afterward. Dogs that are prone to bloat should have a calm, relaxed post-meal period to prevent sudden movements that could increase pressure on the stomach.

Surgical Prevention for High-Risk Dogs

If your dog is considered high-risk due to their breed or other factors, you may want to consult with your veterinarian about performing a preventive gastropexy. This surgery involves suturing the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent it from twisting, significantly reducing the risk of bloat.

This procedure is often recommended for dogs that are particularly prone to bloat, especially if they have already experienced mild bloating or if they are in a high-risk breed. The surgery is usually performed as a preventive measure during spaying or neutering, but it can also be done as a separate procedure for adult dogs.

Recap: Bloat (GDV) In Dogs

Bloat is a severe and potentially fatal condition that can affect any dog, though it primarily targets large and deep-chested breeds.

Understanding the symptoms, recognizing the risk factors, and taking steps to prevent bloat can dramatically improve your dog’s chances of living a long, healthy life. While bloat is a medical emergency, early detection and prompt treatment can make all the difference.

By following the prevention tips and providing appropriate care, you can significantly reduce the chances of your dog suffering from this dangerous condition.

Shop our full Health line for a happy, healthy pup!