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Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus / GDV) in Dogs
Bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), is one of the most serious and rapidly fatal emergencies in dogs. The stomach fills with gas and fluid (dilatation) and may twist on itself (volvulus), cutting off blood flow to the stomach and spleen. Without emergency surgery, GDV is almost always fatal. It most commonly affects large, deep-chested breeds.
Symptoms to Watch ForWarning Signs
- Distended (swollen) abdomen that may feel hard or tight like a drum
- Non-productive retching — trying to vomit but nothing comes up
- Restlessness, pacing, and obvious discomfort
- Excessive drooling
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Pale gums and rapid heart rate
- Weakness, collapse, or inability to stand
- Looking at or biting at the abdomen
Immediate First AidAct Now
- 1THIS IS A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY — rush to the nearest emergency vet immediately
- 2Do NOT attempt to relieve the gas yourself
- 3Do NOT give any food, water, or medications
- 4Call the emergency vet while en route so they can prepare
- 5Keep your dog as calm and still as possible during transport
- 6Time is critical — dogs can go into fatal shock within 1-2 hours of symptom onset
When to Call the Vet
- Immediately — bloat/GDV is always a surgical emergency
- If your dog is retching without producing vomit, do not wait
- If you notice abdominal distension in a large breed dog, act immediately
- Every minute of delay reduces the chance of survival
Additional Information
High-risk breeds include Great Dane, German Shepherd, Standard Poodle, Weimaraner, Saint Bernard, Irish Setter, and Doberman Pinscher. Risk factors: eating one large meal per day, eating rapidly, exercising vigorously after eating, stress, and older age. Prophylactic gastropexy (surgically tacking the stomach) during spay/neuter can prevent GDV in high-risk breeds.