Bloating in dogs

The etiology of the disorder remains unclear. It is also not known whether twisting of the stomach precedes dilatation or vice-versa, but current evidence points to the former.

• Larger breeds, such as Great Danes and Saint Bernards are more likely to get bloat.
• Overall, breeds with comparatively deeper chests and higher height-to-width ratios are more susceptible to the condition. This is not to say that smaller breeds are not affected; even chihuahuas can get bloat, it is just less likely. 
• Males are more likely to get bloat than females and older dogs are especially prone. 
• According to anecdotal evidence (although not conclusive), dogs with a more stressful disposition, fed only one meal a day comprising of solid food, who eat their food in quick gulps and proceed to playing immediately after, have a higher likelihood of getting sick. 
• There also appears to be a genetic angle - dogs that have a family history of bloat are more likely to experience it themselves.

The dog will be in significant distress if there is bloat. It is an extremely painful situation and the canine responds with clear physical indications:

• The dog will appear as if trying to throw up but will not be able to vomit
• The stomach will appear dilated (larger and expanded) and will be hard to the touch
• Heavy panting 
• Restlessness
• Drooling
• The dog may collapse if condition worsens

If you notice that your dog’s stomach has suddenly dilated and he looks distressed, you must take him to the vet right away. Prompt treatment is key in GDV and longer the delay, the worse the prognosis.

If your dog has shown signs of bloating, a visit to the vet will reveal more about what caused it and begin treatment at the earliest:

• The vet will conduct blood tests and perform imaging tests such as X-rays to confirm the diagnosis, and inquire about having any family history of bloating. Bloat shows up clearly on X-rays as a mass pushing on surrounding organs.
• The first goal of treatment is to relieve the pressure on the stomach. The vet will insert a probe down the throat and ‘pump’ the stomach. It may be complicated to get to the stomach if there is torsion (twisting). If this is the case the vet may decide to take a hollow tube and insert it right into the abdomen to relieve the pressure.
• If there is volvulus (caused by the twisting of the stomach or intestine), emergency surgery will need to be performed. Known as gastropexy, the stomach is stitched to the body wall so that it does not twist again. Damaged tissue (this may be caused by compromised circulation or pressure) may also be excised during this process as well. 
• The dog could go into shock if treatment is slightly delayed. It is therefore crucial to administer shock treatment which involves intravenously restoring fluids lost during the traumatic event. Stabilizing the dog is of utmost importance.

About 30% of dogs that undergo treatment do not survive. Those that survive surgery will take several weeks to recover from gastropexy. The vet will prescribe strong painkillers and antibiotics to see off the crucial period post surgery. 

Your dog will be asked to take long periods of rest and not exert itself. An appropriate diet will also be recommended to not stress the stomach.

Much of the preventative steps suggested are based on anecdotal evidence and have not been corroborated with rigorous research: 

• Small, frequent meals rather than one heavy meal is recommended 
• Ensuring your dog has adequate water throughout the day
• Make consuming meals a low-stress situation. This could be done by ensuring that your dog is not around other dogs when eating
• Avoid entirely dry food. Ideally, dog food should be homemade or have some gravy
• Avoid feeding your dog from a raised platform 
• Avoid physical activity right before and after eating

Large breed dogs that are predisposed to GDV - particularly those with a family history - may opt for prophylactic gastropexy, where the stomach is stapled to the body wall to prevent future torsion. But it does not nullify the possibility of dilatation. 

Vets may be reluctant to put a dog under anaesthesia unless it is an emergency situation. Some owners decide to get the procedure done when spaying their dog, but only after consulting with the vet.