Deep-chested dogs that look narrow from above but have plenty of space between their spine and sternum are more prone to bloat, says Dr. Kizzy English, medical director of VCA Urgent Care in Colorado.
The main dog breeds prone to bloat include:
What is dog bloat and why does it happen?
Bloating occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas or food and stretches to the point of causing severe pain. When this happens, the stomach swells but also twists, which can cut off the blood supply and prevent any gas or food from coming out, says Dr. English. A twisted stomach is an emergency situation requiring surgery.
“We know that certain things increase the risk, but there’s no definitive answer as to why some dogs bloat and others don’t,” says Dr. English. “Some factors that can increase the risk of bloating are: getting older, eating too fast, exercising immediately after eating, or having a family history of bloating.”
Dogs Prone to Bloating: Signs and Symptoms
Know what warning signs to look for, as bloating requires immediate medical attention.
Signs of bloat in dogs include:
- your dog’s belly suddenly appears big or hard
- your dog tries to vomit but nothing comes out
- Your dog is showing signs of pain, indicating that it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
A veterinarian will order an X-ray or ultrasound to determine the severity of the condition and next steps. Treatment usually includes medication or fluids to reduce the pressure. For a twisted stomach, surgery is required.
Top Dog Breeds Prone to Bloating: Prevention
If you have a large or deep-chested breed prone to bloat, a surgical procedure called gastropexy, which taps the stomach to the body wall to prevent twisting, is often recommended along with spaying, neutering, or another surgery.
To learn more about bloat in dogs, read our article What is bloat and is it a real emergency?
