There’s a lot of advice out there about preventing bloat in dogs ... but not all of it's accurate. You’ve probably heard that feeding from raised bowls or adding water to kibble can help reduce the risk of bloat—but studies show these practices may actually increase it.

The truth is, bloat is a complex condition, and understanding the real causes is essential to keeping your dog safe.

When it comes to bloat, separating myth from fact is critical because this condition can escalate quickly and become life-threatening. By learning the truth about bloat, you can take steps to lower your dog’s risk and know exactly what to do in an emergency.

Below, you’ll learn about risk factors, symptoms, and proven prevention strategies, as well as what to do if your dog develops bloat.

What Is Bloat In Dogs?

Bloat, or gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening emergency where your dog’s stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. The twisting, which can range from 180 to 360 degrees, seals off both ends of the stomach, trapping food, fluid, and gas inside.

This blockage causes the stomach to expand, putting pressure on nearby organs like the lungs and diaphragm, making it difficult for your dog to breathe. Blood flow to the heart is also disrupted, which can lead to shock and rapid deterioration.

GDV progresses fast—sometimes within just 20 minutes—which is why it’s critical to act immediately if you suspect your dog is bloating. Left untreated, the pressure in the stomach can cause tissue damage, organ failure, and even death.

Quick action is often the difference between survival and tragedy, making it vital for dog owners to recognize the symptoms and seek help right away.

Dog Breeds Prone to Bloat

Certain breeds are at higher risk for bloat, especially large, deep-chested dogs. Breeds like Great Danes, German Shepherds, Dobermans, and Boxers are particularly prone to GDV because of their body structure, which allows more room for the stomach to twist. If you own one of these breeds, it’s important to monitor their diet and behavior closely.

Dogs with a family history of GDV are also at an increased risk, so it’s worth asking your breeder about any cases in your dog’s lineage. Knowing your dog’s genetic predisposition can help you take extra precautions to reduce their chances of developing bloat.

Why Bloat Can Happen To Any Dog

While some breeds are more vulnerable, bloat isn’t limited to large or deep-chested dogs—it can happen to any dog. Even small or medium-sized breeds can develop GDV under the right conditions, so it’s important to stay vigilant.

Regardless of your dog’s size or breed, knowing the warning signs and risk factors is essential for keeping them safe.

Recognizing Symptoms Of Bloat In Dogs

Bloat can come on fast, so recognizing the early signs is critical. If your dog seems unusually agitated—pacing, whining, drooling excessively, or trying to vomit without success—these could all be early indicators. You might also notice your dog standing stiffly, hanging their head low, or showing signs of abdominal discomfort.

As bloat progresses, symptoms become much more serious. A visibly bloated abdomen, labored breathing, signs of shock (like pale gums), or even collapse are all red flags. At this stage, your dog’s life is in immediate danger, and you need to act fast to get them help.

Bloat often strikes shortly after eating, especially if your dog ate a large meal or exercised right after. Symptoms can escalate within minutes, making it essential to respond quickly. If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait—your dog needs emergency care.

What to Do If Your Dog Bloats

If you suspect your dog is experiencing bloat, treat it as a life-threatening emergency. Get your dog to the vet as quickly as possible, and call ahead to explain the situation so the clinic can prepare for immediate treatment. Even if you’re not certain it’s bloat, it’s better to err on the side of caution—early intervention can save your dog’s life.

While you’re on the way, try to keep your dog calm and avoid any additional stress. It’s a good idea to have a friend or family member ride with you to assist, as this allows you to focus on driving.

Some dog owners find homeopathic remedies helpful for managing symptoms on the way to the vet. Carbo vegetabilis can be used for gas-related bloating with cold symptoms like a chilled muzzle, while Nux vomica helps with cramping and unsuccessful vomiting. To dose, place a few pellets in your dog’s cheek or mix them with water to create a liquid solution.

Give a dose every 15 minutes if possible, but don’t delay getting to the vet—these remedies are not a replacement for professional care. If symptoms change, be ready to adjust the remedy to fit your dog’s needs.

Best Treatment For Bloat In Dogs

At the vet, the first step is to stabilize your dog by restoring blood circulation, often through IV fluids delivered via a catheter. Next, the vet will decompress the stomach using a gastric tube to release trapped gas or fluid. X-rays will confirm whether it’s a case of simple dilation or full GDV, which determines the next steps.

If your dog’s stomach is twisted, surgery will be necessary to untwist it and assess any damage to the stomach, spleen, or other organs. Unfortunately, complications like low blood pressure, aspiration pneumonia, or lung injury can arise, so ongoing monitoring is critical.

For most dogs with GDV, emergency surgery is the only way to resolve the twisting and relieve pressure. During the procedure, the vet will untwist the stomach, remove any damaged tissue, and flush the abdominal cavity if necessary. Many vets also recommend a preventive gastropexy during this surgery, which involves attaching the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent future twists.

While gastropexy can lower the risk of recurrence, it doesn’t stop bloat entirely. Additionally, this preventive measure carries its own risks, including wound complications or the need for follow-up care. It’s an option worth discussing with your vet based on your dog’s individual risk factors.

What Causes Bloat In Dogs?

Bloat often develops when multiple factors combine, such as overeating, gulping food or water too quickly, or swallowing excessive air while eating. Dogs that eat rapidly or have irregular feeding schedules are more likely to experience these issues. Stressful situations, like sudden changes in routine, can also trigger bloat by increasing your dog’s tendency to gulp air or overeat.

Diet plays a major role in bloat risk, with high-starch or high-fat kibble being a common culprit. These ingredients can slow digestion, creating the perfect environment for gas buildup in the stomach. Some studies have shown that kibble with fat listed among the first four ingredients significantly raises the likelihood of bloat, while kibble containing citric acid can increase risk even more if moistened before feeding.

How To Prevent Bloat In Dogs

Now that you understand what bloat is and what causes it, you're ready to learn how to prevent it.

Here are a few simple things you can do to prevent bloat in dogs naturally:

Feed A Fresh Diet

Switching to a fresh, minimally processed diet can make a world of difference in reducing your dog’s risk of bloat. Raw diets and home-cooked meals provide the nutrients your dog needs without the excessive starch and fillers found in kibble. If raw feeding isn’t an option, look for freeze-dried, air-dried, or canned food as alternatives to processed kibble.

Chewing Raw Bones

Raw bones aren’t just great for keeping your dog’s teeth clean—they also help strengthen stomach muscles and improve digestion. The act of chewing encourages natural gastric activity, reducing the likelihood of gas buildup. Incorporating raw meaty bones or recreational bones into your dog’s routine can be an effective way to lower bloat risk.

Adjust Feeding Practices

Raised food bowls were once thought to help prevent bloat, but research shows the opposite—they actually increase the risk, especially for large and giant breeds. Feeding meals at ground level is more natural for your dog and reduces the chance of swallowing too much air while eating.

Exercise Timing

Timing is key when it comes to exercise and meals. Avoid vigorous activity, like running or playing tug-of-war, right after your dog eats. Waiting an hour or two before exercising allows their stomach to settle and reduces the risk of it flipping or twisting.

Stress Management

Stress is a major factor in bloat, so creating a calm environment for your dog is crucial. Identify situations that may cause anxiety, like changes in routine or the presence of strangers, and take steps to minimize them. Regular walks, playtime, and positive interactions can help your dog stay relaxed, which in turn lowers their risk of bloat.

Bloat Risk Factors And Genetic Considerations

Certain characteristics and conditions can make a dog more prone to bloat. Lean or underweight dogs, males, and those with chronic medical problems are at higher risk. Age is another factor, with the first episodes of bloat often occurring in dogs between 10 and 12 years old.

If you’re a breeder, it’s critical to avoid breeding dogs with a family history of GDV, particularly first-degree relatives of affected dogs. Research suggests that removing these dogs from the breeding pool could lower GDV incidence by as much as 60%. Responsible breeding practices can significantly reduce the hereditary risk of bloat and improve the overall health of future generations.

FAQ

Can bloat in dogs be prevented? While bloat, or gastric dilatation volvulus, can’t always be completely prevented, pet owners can reduce risk by feeding a fresh diet, avoiding raised bowls, and managing stress in large breed dogs. Preventive measures like maintaining a healthy weight and scheduling regular rest after meals can also help.

How can I reduce my dog's bloat naturally? To naturally reduce the risk of a bloated stomach, feed a balanced, minimally processed diet like raw or home-cooked meals instead of kibble with meat meal as a primary ingredient. Using slow feeder bowls and ensuring your dog rests before and after meals can also lower the likelihood of bloat.

What foods prevent bloat in dogs? Fresh, whole foods like raw or air-dried meals are ideal for preventing bloat, especially in older dogs and breeds prone to a distended stomach. Avoid kibble with high-fat content or ingredients like citric acid, as these can increase gas buildup in the stomach wall.

How long should a dog rest after eating to prevent bloat? To help avoid this life threatening condition, let your dog rest for at least an hour after eating before engaging in any physical activity. This is especially important for fearful dogs or those prone to stress, as rest aids digestion and minimizes the risk of a dog experiencing bloat.