Bloating Remedies for Great Danes

Gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV) is one of the leading causes of death in Great Danes. It is caused by an accumulation of air, fluid or foam in the stomach, which leads to bloating. Bloating can cause the stomach to twist, preventing the dog from being able to vomit or belch to release pressure. This restricts blood flow back into the heart, which can cause cardiac problems, stomach rupture or damage to surrounding organs. The key to avoiding this situation is prevention. Remedies should focus on eliminating bloating triggers such as rapid eating and drinking.

  1. Food

    • Feed your dog two to three small meals a day and use high quality food or a raw diet. Small meals prevent rapid eating because they keep the dog satisfied throughout the day. Dry and concentrated foods absorb more water, which can lead to increased bloating. Consider wet or a mixture of wet and dry food. Add probiotics or enzymes to food to aid in healthy digestion.

    Water and Exercise

    • Ration the amount of water before and after a meal because rapid gulping leads to bloating. Avoid exercise around mealtime to reduce the chances of increased water intake. Do not avoid exercise completely -- maintaining a healthy weight for your dog decreases the risk of bloating.

    Avoid Bloating Foods

    • Avoid gas-producing foods such as soybean, brewers yeast, beans, salt and cheese. Read dog food labels and avoid fillers, preservatives and byproducts, which all cause increased bloating. Feed a Great Dane food such as chicken, carrots, brown rice and oatmeal to limit incidences of stomach distention.

    Temperament

    • Dogs that are scared, stressed or anxious have a higher incidence of bloating. Create a stress free environment for your dog by doing such things as providing a quiet time to eat, exercise and bonding. Set up a safe place in the home for the dog to go to that includes such things as a bed and toys.

    Simethicone

    • Simethicone is an antacid that is used to break up large gas bubbles in the stomach, enabling gas to be passed more easily. It comes in a variety of forms and is found at drug stores. It is important to talk to a veterinarian about the type, dosage and best time to give to a Great Dane.

    Tubing

    • Tubing is done by a veterinarian and involves passing a flexible tube into the mouth down to the stomach in order to decompress gas. Veterinarians will train dog owners with dogs predisposed to bloating on how to do this procedure at home in emergencies. Bloating is life threatening in Great Danes. Whenever possible, bring the dog to the veterinarian.