Bloat in Dogs: A Life-Saving Guide to Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)

There is no scarier word in the veterinary world than Bloat. It strikes suddenly, often in healthy dogs. It progresses rapidly. And without immediate surgery, it is 100% fatal.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) is the medical term. It happens when the stomach fills with gas (dilatation) and then flips over on itself (volvulus), cutting off blood supply to the organs and trapping the gas. The stomach begins to die.

If you own a deep-chested breed (Great Dane, German Shepherd, Standard Poodle, Saint Bernard), you must memorize this guide. It could save your dog’s life.

The Symptoms: What to Look For

You might only have 60 minutes from the first symptom to a fatal collapse.

1. Distended Abdomen: The dog looks like they swallowed a basketball. Their belly is tight and hard as a drum.
2. Unproductive Retching: The dog tries to vomit but nothing comes out (or just white foam). This is the hallmark sign. The stomach is twisted; nothing can pass.
3. Restlessness: Pacing, whining, inability to lie down.
4. Hypersalivation: Drooling excessively due to nausea/pain.
5. Pale Gums: A sign of shock. Press on the gum; if the color doesn’t return instantly, rush to the vet.
6. Prayer Position: Front down, rear up (stretching the belly).

What to Do (The 60-Minute Rule)

DO NOT WAIT. Do not “wait and see.” Do not Google home remedies. If you suspect bloat, load the dog in the car and call the vet while you are driving. Tell them: “I suspect GDV. I am 10 minutes away.” This allows them to prep surgery before you arrive. Every minute of blood loss counts.

Who is at Risk?

• Deep-Chested Breeds: Great Danes are the #1 risk (some studies say nearly 40% will bloat in their lifetime).
• Age: Risk increases with age (dogs over 7).
• Anxious Dogs: Nervous dogs bloat more often than calm ones.
• Fast Eaters: Gulping air with food.

Prevention: Can You Stop It?

You cannot prevent it 100%, but you can lower the odds.

1. The “No Exercise” Rule

Wait 1 hour before and after meals before exercising your dog. No running, no rough play. Let the food settle.

2. Slow Down Eating

If your dog inhales food, get a Slow Feeder Bowl or a Snuffle Mat. Eating slower reduces swallowed air.

3. Gastropexy (The Stomach Tack)

This is the only sure prevention. It is a surgery where the stomach is stitched (tacked) to the abdominal wall so it cannot flip. Many owners of Great Danes and German Shepherds do this electively when the dog is spayed/neutered. It doesn’t prevent gas buildup (dilatation), but it prevents the fatal twist (volvulus).

Myths About Bloat

• “Raised bowls prevent bloat”: False. Recent studies suggest raised bowls might actually increase the risk for some dogs. Feed at floor level unless directed otherwise by a vet.
• “Only large dogs get it”: False. While rare, even Dachshunds and Chihuahuas can bloat.

Summary

Bloat is terrifying, but awareness is your weapon. Watch for the Retching. Watch for the Hard Belly. And always, always have the number of the nearest 24-hour emergency vet saved in your phone.