BLOAT

This is an extremely painful condition that is life-threatening to dogs with deep chests. Many people think this is a condition only found in Great Danes or Irish Wolfhounds, but it also happens to Samoyeds, Boxers, Labradors, and others. Some researchers believe bloat is genetic, while others think it is breed-specific.

Bloat involves a swelling of the stomach from either gas or fluid, or both. Once distended, the stomach may twist abruptly on its long axis, closing off entry into and out of the stomach. If this twist is 180 degrees or less, it is called torsion. A twist greater than 180 degrees is called volvulus. If your dog is able to burp or vomit, the bloat is likely not caused by a twist, but your dog still needs to be closely monitored. If you notice a swelling of the abdomen and the dog is trying to vomit but is unable to, it could be very serious. Torsion and volvulus require emergency treatment immediately by an experienced veterinarian.

Prevention: 

• Never strenuously exercise your dog within 2 hours of feeding (before or after).

• Do not allow your dog to drink large amounts of water within 20 minutes of feeding or exercising.

• Avoid feeding the exact same food at the exact same time each and every day. Some researchers think there is a link to the diet itself, and the time of feeding. Add something different every other day and try to stagger the feeding times.

• Give 2 smaller feedings daily, instead of one big one.

• Never allow your dog to go more than 12 hours without something to eat.

• Do not over-feed. If you must put weight on your dog, add higher calorie food to the regular meals, or feed a third meal in the middle of the day.