How to Prevent Bloat in Dogs: 3 Tips to Prevent Bloat in Dogs

Bloat in dogs is a medical condition known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Bloat occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with air, gas, liquid, or dog food causing pressure to build up, which results in decreased blood flow and labored breathing.

In some cases, the dog’s stomach twists or flips, cutting off entry and exit points to the stomach and sealing off the gas or food trapped inside. The twisted stomach also prevents the dog’s blood supply from reaching the heart or other organs, including the pancreas, which then produces toxic hormones. If left untreated, bloat becomes a life-threatening condition requiring an emergency surgical procedure.

A few of the signs of bloat in dogs include:

1. 1. Difficulting breathing: Shortness of breath is one of the most common signs of bloat in dogs. Dog owners may also observe an elevated heart rate, pale gums, and drooling in the condition's early stages.
2. 2. Retching: Bloat also causes a distended stomach, which is one of the most painful symptoms of bloat. Dogs often experience retching or vomiting due to stomach discomfort, and their abdomens may be sensitive to touch.
3. 3. Shock: Stomach torsion cuts off the blood supply to major organs, resulting in collapse and shock. Symptoms of shock include an elevated pulse, increased thirst, and gasping for breath. Seek your doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) immediately if these symptoms occur, as they can lead to death.

Veterinarians continue to research the causes of bloat in dogs, but research indicates the following factors contribute to bloat:

• Age: Though veterinarians are not entirely sure what causes bloat, one factor appears to be a dog's age. Middle-aged and older dogs develop bloat more than younger dogs or puppies.
• Eating patterns: Other risk factors that lead to bloat include how a dog eats its food. Eating one large meal a day instead of two small meals and consuming wet food instead of dry food can elevate a dog’s risk of bloat.
• Genetics: Certain dog breeds have a higher risk of bloat than other breeds. Deep-chested, large breed dogs and giant breed dogs are more likely to suffer from bloat than small dogs. Great Danes, in particular, are more likely to experience bloat, though other at-risk breeds include deep-chested dogs such as German shepherds, Weimaraners, Doberman pinschers, rottweilers, and Saint Bernards. However, some medium-sized and small dogs also may be susceptible to bloat, including boxers, basset hounds, Akitas, standard poodles, and retrievers.

Bloat is a serious condition, but pet owners can take steps to reduce the risk.

1. 1. Avoid exercise and play at mealtime. Stress, excitement, and over-exertion put a dog at greater risk for bloat. Avoid vigorous play or training immediately after a meal.
2. 2. Consider preventative surgery. Some vets perform preventative gastropexy, a procedure that affixes the dog’s stomach to its abdominal wall, on at-risk breeds. Vets recommend scheduling this surgery when you plan to spay or neuter your dog. Gastropexy will not prevent bloat, but it reduces the chance of a twisted stomach.
3. 3. Feed your dog at least twice a day. Give your dog two or more small meals a day instead of one large portion. Offer a combination of wet food and dry kibble, and use a slow feeder food bowl to regulate how fast your dog eats. In addition, ensure your dog drinks a healthy amount of water throughout the day.

Your dream of having a dog who understands words like “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and—crucially— “no” is just a MasterClass Annual Membership away. The only things you’ll need to train up a well-behaved pup are your laptop, a big bag of treats, and our exclusive instructional videos from superstar animal trainer Brandon McMillan.