Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), more commonly known as bloat, is a sudden and life-threatening emergency in dogs that requires immediate veterinary attention. At Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency, our emergency and specialty teams regularly treat dogs affected by GDV and know how critical fast diagnosis and intervention are to survival.

GDV occurs when a dog’s stomach becomes abnormally distended with gas, food, or fluid and then rotates on itself. This twisting traps stomach contents, compromises blood flow to the stomach and surrounding organs, and interferes with normal circulation throughout the body. Without rapid treatment, GDV can become fatal in a matter of hours.

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk for GDV?

While GDV can affect dogs of any size or breed, it is most commonly seen in large, deep-chested dogs. Breeds with an increased risk include:

• Great Danes

• German Shepherds

• Standard Poodles

• Weimaraners

• Saint Bernards

• Doberman Pinschers

• Irish Setters

• Other dogs with similar body conformation

Older dogs are diagnosed more frequently, but bloat can occur at any age, even in younger, otherwise healthy dogs.

Signs and Symptoms of Bloat in Dogs

GDV often develops rapidly and progresses quickly. Contact an emergency veterinarian immediately if your dog shows any of the following signs:

• Repeated, unproductive attempts to vomit or retch

• Restlessness or pacing, inability to get comfortable

• A painful, firm, or distended abdomen (not always obvious)

• Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth

• Rapid or labored breathing

• Elevated heart rate

• Weakness, collapse, or difficulty standing in severe cases

Because bloat worsens quickly, any suspicion of GDV should be treated as a medical emergency.

What Causes Bloat in Dogs?

The exact cause of GDV is not fully understood and is likely multifactorial. While body conformation plays a significant role, some dogs develop bloat without an identifiable trigger. Factors that may contribute include eating or drinking too quickly, swallowing excessive air, or exercising close to mealtime.

Factors Associated With an Increased Risk of GDV

• Large, deep-chested body type

• Eating one large meal per day

• Rapid food consumption

• Diets consisting primarily of dry kibble

• Vigorous activity immediately before or after meals

• Increasing age (commonly 7–12 years)

• Male sex

Factors That May Help Reduce the Risk of GDV

• Feeding two or more smaller meals daily

• Preventing strenuous activity before and after meals

• Feeding from floor-level bowls rather than elevated feeders

• Including canned or moistened food as part of the diet

Why Is GDV So Dangerous?

As the stomach expands, it places pressure on major blood vessels, reducing blood flow back to the heart and leading to shock. The enlarged stomach also presses against the diaphragm, making breathing more difficult. When the stomach twists, blood supply to the stomach tissue is compromised, which can lead to tissue death. The spleen may also be affected, increasing the risk of internal bleeding.

Without immediate treatment, dogs with GDV may develop life-threatening complications such as severe shock, abnormal heart rhythms, infection, and organ failure. Early recognition and rapid emergency care are critical to survival.

How Is GDV Diagnosed and Treated?

GDV is most commonly diagnosed using abdominal X-rays, which allow veterinarians to assess the size and position of the stomach. Treatment begins right away with stabilization, including intravenous fluids, pain management, and close monitoring.

Definitive treatment requires emergency surgery. During surgery, the stomach is returned to its normal position, and a gastropexy is typically performed to secure the stomach to the body wall and reduce the risk of recurrence. If other organs, such as the spleen, have been damaged, additional procedures may be necessary.

Most dogs recovering from GDV require several days of hospitalization and intensive monitoring. Even with prompt care, complications can occur, which is why early intervention is so important.

Emergency Care for Bloat in Nashville, TN

If your dog is showing signs of bloat, do not wait. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Contact your vet or Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency at (615) 386-0107, to let our team know you are on the way so we can prepare for your arrival.

When it comes to GDV, every minute matters, fast action can save your dog’s life.