What it is
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV, "bloat") is when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. It cuts off blood supply to the stomach and major vessels. Without surgical intervention, most dogs with GDV die within hours.
Who's at risk
- Large and giant breeds with deep chests
- Highest risk: Great Dane, Weimaraner, Standard Poodle, Saint Bernard, Irish Setter, German Shepherd, Gordon Setter
- Also common in: Boxer, Doberman, Labrador, Golden Retriever, Rottweiler
- Age: typically 7+ years, but can occur in any adult
- Risk increases with: raised feeding bowls, one large meal per day, eating quickly, exercise right after eating, stress
Signs — recognise them fast
Classic presentation:
- Visibly swollen or distended abdomen (looks bloated)
- Unproductive retching — dog tries to vomit but nothing comes up, or only small amounts of foam
- Excessive drooling
- Restlessness, pacing, unable to get comfortable
- Looking at their abdomen
Later signs (dog is in shock):
- Pale or white gums
- Weakness or collapse
- Rapid, weak pulse
What to do — immediately
- Go to the nearest open vet or emergency clinic NOW. Do not wait. Do not try home remedies.
- Call ahead if possible so they prepare.
- Do not give food, water, or anything by mouth.
- Keep the dog calm and still during transport.
What happens at the vet
Immediate stabilisation (IV fluids, pain relief, decompression), X-rays to confirm, and emergency surgery to untwist the stomach and tack it permanently to the abdominal wall (gastropexy).
Survival rates with prompt treatment: 70-90%. Without surgery: near 100% mortality.
Prevention
- Feed 2-3 smaller meals per day instead of one large meal
- Avoid strenuous exercise 1 hour before and after meals
- Use a regular bowl at ground level (elevated feeders may increase risk)
- Consider prophylactic gastropexy — a preventive surgical stitching of the stomach, often done at desexing in at-risk breeds. Discuss with your vet.
This is not a wait-and-see situation
If you see unproductive retching + a swollen belly in a large-breed dog, go. Every minute matters.