Dog Breeds Susceptible to Bloat

Canine bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus, is a potentially fatal digestive disorder. It occurs as the stomach expands with the accumulation of air, food and fluids. When this happens, the stomach often shifts, closing off both the entrance and exit points. With nowhere to go, toxins build up in the stomach, eventually causing the stomach to rupture and leading to infection. A dog that develops bloat may die within a few hours of the onset of symptoms.

  1. Breeds

    • While any dog can develop bloat, it is more common in certain breeds. German shepherds, rottweilers, standard poodles, boxers, Labrador retrievers, Saint Bernards, Dobermans, Great Danes, Irish wolfhounds and Old English sheepdogs are all prone to bloat. Smaller breeds that more commonly suffer bloat include basset hounds, Airedale terriers and dachshunds.

    Other Factors

    • Other breeds, and also mixed breeds, can also develop bloat. Body type can determine whether your dog is prone to the condition. Large breeds are more likely to develop the condition than smaller breeds, and dogs with a deep-chested body style also have an elevated risk of developing the condition.

      Dogs between the ages of 4 and 10 years have an increased risk of developing bloat.

    Symptoms

    • The most important factor in surviving bloat is early intervention. If you suspect bloat, take your dog immediately to the veterinarian's office for treatment. The most common symptom of bloat is a loss of interest in food and water. Additional symptoms may include pacing, salivating, gagging, anxiety and changes to breathing. Thirty to 60 minutes after eating, the midsection may begin to noticeably swell.

    Minimizing Risks

    • While some cases of bloat may be related to heredity, other cases are caused by lifestyle issues. To minimize the risk of your dog developing bloat, feed him several small meals rather than one large meal each day. Feed in a quiet corner, and if you have several dogs, feed them in separate rooms so they don't feel like they have to compete over the food. Eating quickly increases the likelihood of developing bloat.

      Mix dry food with canned food or add water so that it expands before your dog eats it. If you decide to change the type of food your dog eats, make the change gradually, over a period of days.

    Treatment

    • Take your dog to the veterinarian if you suspect bloat. If it is after business hours, go to the closest emergency clinic; bloat cannot wait until the morning. The veterinarian will diagnose bloat by performing a physical exam, and he may also perform an electrocardiogram or X-ray. The pressure from bloat is relieved by running a tube down the esophagus or by inserting a large bore needle directly into the stomach. If these treatments aren't effective, surgery may be necessary. The vet may also administer antibiotics and fluids as part of the treatment program.