What is Bloat in Dogs and How to Prevent It?

My personal dog, Koda, had bloat and was minutes from death. All he did was stretch after eating a bone and his stomach flipped.

What is Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus, GDV)?

Bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a dog's stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid and then twists. This twisting cuts off blood flow, leading to shock and potential death if not treated immediately.

Signs & Symptoms of Bloat

• Distended or swollen belly

• Attempting to vomit but producing nothing

• Excessive drooling

• Restlessness and pacing

• Rapid heartbeat

• Weakness or collapse

• Difficulty breathing

If you suspect bloat, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

Causes & Risk Factors

Bloat can happen to any dog, but certain factors increase the risk:

• Large and Deep-Chested Breeds – Great Danes, German Shepherds, Dobermans, and similar breeds are more susceptible.

• Eating Too Fast – Swallowing large amounts of air while eating can contribute to stomach expansion.

• Exercising After Eating – Strenuous activity right after meals can increase the likelihood of stomach twisting.

• Drinking Excessive Water Quickly – Large amounts of water in a short time may contribute to bloat.

• Feeding Once a Day – Dogs fed one large meal per day are at a higher risk.

• Stress or Anxiety – Nervous or high-strung dogs may be more prone to bloat.
  

How to Prevent Bloat

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent bloat, these steps can significantly reduce the risk:

1. Feed Multiple Smaller Meals – Divide daily food intake into 2-3 smaller meals instead of one large meal.

2. Use Slow Feeder Bowls – These help slow down eating and reduce air intake.

3. Limit Exercise Around Mealtime – Avoid strenuous activity at least 1 hour before and after meals.

4. Provide Fresh Water, But in Moderation – Ensure your dog has access to water but discourage gulping large amounts at once.

5. Avoid Elevated Food Bowls – While once believed to help, raised food bowls may actually increase the risk of bloat.

6. Consider Preventive Surgery (Gastropexy) – High-risk breeds may benefit from a surgical procedure that helps prevent stomach twisting.

Emergency Response to Bloat

If you notice signs of bloat:

• Do NOT wait – Bloat progresses rapidly and is fatal without immediate intervention.

• Take your dog to the vet or an emergency animal hospital immediately.

• Do not try to induce vomiting – This can worsen the situation.

• Call ahead to let the veterinary staff know you're coming.

Bloat is a medical emergency, but with awareness and preventive measures, the risk can be minimized. If your dog is a high-risk breed, discuss prevention strategies with your veterinarian.