While it seems that many health conditions are worse in small and toy dogs, bloat is a very real and very serious issue in the large and giant breeds. It is most commonly seen in dogs with a deep chest that is also narrow in relation to the size of the dog. The breeds most associated with bloat include the Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Weimaraner, Boxer, Standard Poodle and Basset Hound. Males of these and other prone breeds are more likely to develop bloat than females. It is also much more common in dogs over the age of 7. Mixed breed dogs have some of the lowest rates of bloat.
Bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus or GDV can cause death within a few hours if not treated by a vet. You cannot treat a dog with bloat at home and your only hope is to get immediate medical help. Bloat has different stages or parts of the condition. The first is bloat (dilatation) where the stomach stops emptying and pressure builds up. The dog cannot vomit or burp to relieve the pressure and the lower end of the stomach is also not emptying, literally trapping the stomach contents and allowing gas to build up. As the gas builds in the stomach it presses outwards on the diaphragm and the lungs leading to trouble breathing. Pressure on the blood vessels and the heart causes incomplete blood circulation. As the stomach continues to swell it can rotate on itself which known as volvulus. This cuts off the blood supply and causes cell death as well as any chance for relieving the swelling and pressure.
The signs of bloat occur rapidly, usually after eating quickly. They include a swollen stomach, pacing, dry vomiting, shallow breathing and anxiety as the pain increases. Some dogs may have excessive drooling at this time. If volvulus occurs the dog will quickly become weak and collapse. Since it is impossible to know how long this will take it is important to call your vet immediately and follow all instructions. It will be necessary to medically relieve the pressure off the dog’s stomach through one of several different treatment options. These include inserting a stomach tube or using a surgical procedure to relieve the pressure. A very large needle can also be used to allow the gas from the stomach to be released prior to any surgery.
Dogs that have had bloat will need to be carefully monitored in the future. Different diets, providing multiple feedings and restricting activity after eating will be major factors in prevention. It is also possible to reposition and suture the stomach in place to prevent volvulus from occurring again. In cases where the stomach or surrounding organs have been damaged because of lack of blood euthanasia may be the only possible option. Early treatment is essential in preventing this type of tragedy from happening.