What You Need to Know About Bloat in Dogs

If your dog is showing signs of bloat or discomfort, don’t hesitate and take them to the vet right away.

Key takeaways:

• Bloat, or Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV), is a serious and potentially fatal condition where a dog’s stomach twists and cuts off blood flow.
• Quick action is critical since bloat can become deadly within hours, so recognizing early signs like a swollen belly or dry heaving can save your dog’s life.
• You can help prevent bloat by feeding smaller meals, using slow-feed bowls, and keeping your dog calm and rested after eating.

Each year, thousands of dogs face a life-threatening condition known as bloat. Medically called Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV), it happens when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow to essential organs. Without fast treatment, it can become fatal in just a few hours.

Acting quickly makes all the difference. If your dog shows signs like a swollen belly, restlessness, or repeated attempts to vomit without bringing anything up, get them to a veterinarian right away.

To help you stay informed and prepared, PetHealthMD offers easy-to-understand resources on how to spot, prevent, and respond to bloat, so you can give your dog the best chance at a safe recovery.

What is bloat in dogs?

Bloat, or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), is a serious and often life-threatening condition that happens when a dog’s stomach fills with gas and then twists. This twist traps the gas and food inside while cutting off circulation to the stomach and other nearby organs. It’s more common than you might think—affecting about 60,000 dogs each year in the U.S., or roughly 1 in every 1,000.

When bloat occurs, things can escalate quickly. The gas buildup puts pressure on the diaphragm, making it hard for the dog to breathe, while the lack of blood flow can cause shock, tissue damage, and even organ failure. Large, deep-chested breeds are at greater risk, but bloat can happen to any dog, sometimes just a few hours after eating, or seemingly out of nowhere.

Veterinarians typically diagnose bloat using a physical exam and X-rays to check for stomach rotation and gas buildup. The good news is that early treatment can be life-saving. That’s why knowing what bloat is and how to spot it early is so important for every dog owner. Let’s take a closer look at the symptoms to watch for and what to do if you think your dog may be in danger.

Signs and symptoms of bloat in dogs

Being able to recognize the signs of bloat could save your dog’s life. While symptoms often show up two to three hours after eating a large meal, bloat can strike at any time, so it’s important to stay alert.

Here’s what to watch for:

• Unproductive gagging or retching – your dog may act like they need to vomit but nothing comes out
  
• Excessive drooling or foam around the mouth
  
• A visibly swollen or firm belly, though this may be less obvious in deep-chested breeds
  
• Pacing and restlessness, often because your dog can’t seem to get comfortable
  
• Labored breathing caused by pressure on the lungs from the expanding stomach
  
• Neck stretched out while standing, a posture that signals difficulty breathing
  
• Rapid heartbeat, which often accompanies pain, stress, or early signs of shock
  

If your dog shows any of these symptoms, get them to a vet immediately. Don’t wait to see if it passes—bloat is a true emergency and can become fatal within an hour. If your regular vet is closed, go straight to the nearest emergency animal hospital.

What causes bloat in dogs?

Bloat in dogs is surrounded by plenty of myths, but researchers have uncovered several habits and conditions that can increase the risk. While the exact cause isn’t always clear, certain patterns have been shown to raise the likelihood of an episode.

• Using elevated feeders may actually do more harm than good. Studies have linked them to a 110% increase in the risk of bloat.
• Stressful situations, such as boarding, car rides, or changes in routine, can be triggering, especially in dogs that are anxious or easily agitated.
• Diet plays a role. Dogs fed only dry kibble have a higher risk, while those whose meals include canned or fresh food appear to be less vulnerable.
• Moistened kibble with citric acid as a preservative can be especially risky. One study showed a 320% increase in bloat risk when this type of food was soaked before serving.
• Feeding one large meal per day may stretch the ligament that helps keep the stomach anchored, making it more likely to twist.
• Fast eating can lead to excessive air swallowing. Using a slow-feeder bowl can help reduce this risk.

While any dog can develop bloat, it’s far more common in large or deep-chested breeds like Great Danes, Standard Poodles, German Shepherds, and Boxers. If your dog is one of these breeds—or a mix—or has a close relative who’s had bloat, your vet might suggest a preventive surgery called gastropexy. This procedure tacks the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent it from twisting and is often done at the time of spay or neuter, but it can also be scheduled separately.

After a dog has had bloat once, studies show that the chance of it happening again is about 76%. With gastropexy, that risk drops to just 6%. If you think your dog may be at risk, talk to your vet about whether gastropexy is a good option.

How to prevent bloat in dogs

Making a few thoughtful changes to your dog’s routine can go a long way in reducing the risk of bloat. From how and when you feed your pup to how you structure their daily activity, these small adjustments can make a big difference.

Feeding tips:

• Split your dog’s meals into two or three smaller portions instead of serving one large meal a day. This helps reduce stomach stretching and lowers the risk of gas buildup.
• Use a slow feeder bowl with built-in ridges or bumps to naturally slow down fast eaters. It encourages your dog to chew and take breaks, reducing air intake.
• Keep mealtimes calm. Set up your dog’s food bowl in a quiet, low-traffic spot where they won’t feel rushed or anxious.

Activity and hydration guidelines:

• Let your dog rest for at least 90 minutes after eating before jumping into playtime or going for a walk. This gives their stomach time to settle.
• Offer small sips of water during meals, but make sure they have access to fresh water the rest of the day to stay hydrated without overloading their stomach during eating.

Health and vet support:

• Stay on top of regular wellness checkups. Your vet can help you manage your dog’s weight and discuss whether they’re at higher risk for bloat—especially if they’re a large or deep-chested breed.
• If your dog is at high risk or has a family history of bloat, talk to your vet about preventive surgery like gastropexy.

By being proactive with these everyday habits, you can help protect your dog from this dangerous condition and support their long-term health.

Frequently asked questions about bloat in dogs

Learning how to spot the signs of bloat and understanding what to do next can make all the difference in protecting your dog. Here are some of the most common questions pet parents have—and what you need to know to stay prepared.

How quickly should I take my dog to the vet if I suspect bloat?

Act immediately. Bloat can become fatal within just one to two hours. If your dog shows signs like a swollen belly, unproductive retching, or sudden distress, don’t wait—get to an emergency vet as quickly as possible.

What are my dog’s chances of recovery with treatment?

If treated early, many dogs recover well. With emergency care and possibly surgery, survival rates can be as high as 80%. Timing is critical, so rapid response gives your dog the best shot at a full recovery.

Is my dog at higher risk if their family members had bloat?

Yes, genetics can play a role. If your dog has a close relative—like a parent or sibling—who’s experienced bloat, their risk increases two to three times. This is especially important for owners of large or deep-chested breeds to keep in mind.

Protecting your dog from bloat

Caring for your dog means staying alert to serious health risks like bloat. This life-threatening condition can come on quickly, but knowing the signs and acting fast could save your dog’s life. If you notice symptoms like a swollen belly, dry heaving, or restlessness, contact your veterinarian immediately. Early intervention is critical and gives your dog the best chance at a full recovery.

Every dog is different, and some breeds are more prone to bloat than others. That’s why it’s important to have a conversation with your vet about your dog’s specific risk factors and how to prevent issues before they start. Your vet may recommend changes to your dog’s diet, feeding schedule, or even a preventive surgery like gastropexy for high-risk breeds.

By learning what to watch for and working with your vet, you’re doing everything you can to keep your pup safe. For trusted, vet-approved medications, supplements, and emergency care supplies, visit 1800PetMeds—a reliable source for everything you need to support your dog’s health and well-being.