Stomach bloat in dogs is also known as Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV) which can lead to an emergency situation. Bloating happens when food or gas stretch your dog’s stomach. Bloat in dogs can be serious, and if you believe your dog may be suffering from bloat, you should take your dog to the veterinarian as soon as you can. GDV happens when the bloated stomach rotates and traps gas inside leading to a blockage of blood supply. It’s essential that you notice the symptoms of GDV in your dog and act quickly. GDV is distressing and painful for your dog to experience plus it can lead to death if not treated.
Symptoms of Bloating in Dogs
- Distended, hard or bloated abdomen
- Restlessness
- Pacing
- Unproductive retching
- Heavy, fast or difficulty breathing
- Excessive saliva
- Rapid pulse and heart rate
- Sudden collapse
- Mucous membranes that are pale
Why Is Your Dog’s Stomach Bloated?
As a pet parent, you do your best to provide a healthy diet for your dog so suddenly hearing the news your pet has GDV is shocking. The first thing that comes to mind is, how did this happen? There are numerous underlying ailments that cause stomach bloat in dogs. Common reasons include heart failure, pregnancy, uterine infection, liver dysfunction, and internal bleeding. Click here to get a more detailed look at the causes behind bloating in dogs. Also learn if a dog can still poop when bloated. Many pet parents worry that their dog is bloated but still pooping, and while regular bowel movements can suggest simple gas buildup, it does not automatically rule out a more serious condition like GDV. All of these are serious conditions that need to be brought to the attention of a veterinarian. Once the veterinarian has ruled out an underlying condition, you will be happy to learn the cause of most stomach bloat in dogs usually originates from their daily diet.
Types of Bloat in Dogs: General Bloating vs GDV
Not all bloating in dogs is the same, and understanding the difference is critical. General bloating is usually caused by gas buildup, food intolerance, or digestive upset. While uncomfortable, this type of bloating is often mild and may resolve with dietary adjustments, improved digestion, and veterinary guidance.
Gastric Dilatation Volvulus, commonly known as GDV, is a life threatening emergency. In GDV, the stomach fills with gas and twists, trapping air and cutting off blood supply to vital organs. Unlike simple gas bloating, GDV progresses rapidly and can become fatal without immediate veterinary intervention. Any suspicion of GDV should be treated as an emergency. This is also why many pet parents ask, why does my dog fart so much, since excessive gas often goes hand in hand with general bloating caused by digestion issues rather than a true emergency like GDV.
Risk Factors That Increase the Chance of Dog Bloat
Certain dogs are more prone to bloating and GDV than others. Large and deep chested breeds such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, Dobermans, and Weimaraners are considered at higher risk. However, bloat can occur in dogs of any size or breed.
Other contributing risk factors include eating large meals too quickly, consuming one large meal per day instead of smaller portions, exercising vigorously right before or after meals, high stress or anxiety, and diets that are difficult to digest. Dogs that gulp air while eating or drinking are also more susceptible to gas buildup.
What To Do If You Suspect Your Dog Is Bloated
If you believe your dog may be experiencing bloat or GDV, acting quickly can save their life. Follow these emergency steps:
- Do not attempt to relieve gas manually or massage your dog’s abdomen.
- Do not give food, water, supplements, or medications unless instructed by a veterinarian.
- Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
- Transport your dog as quickly and safely as possible.
- Monitor breathing, gum color, and level of responsiveness while seeking care.
When it comes to bloat, waiting to see if symptoms improve can be dangerous. If something feels wrong, it is always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional veterinary care right away.
How to Treat Dog Bloat
If your dog is experiencing GDV, the veterinarian will provide a treatment plan to follow. However, if your dog’s bloated stomach is due to a poor diet or something they ate, you can make improvements quickly and easily by providing nutritious kibble meals, healthy treats and a supplement like Bernie’s Perfect Poop to help improve digestion. Bernie’s Perfect Poop is specially formulated with fiber, probiotics, prebiotics, and enzymes to relieve digestive conditions, improve overall health, and optimize stool.
