Should I feed my dog before or after a walk to prevent bloat?

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! A light walk probably won't hurt but yes you are right about Bloat. It's very serious and any exercise after eating can be a problem. But it's usually vigorous activity like running, playing, fetching. Light walks should not be a problem and I don't see that as a big risk factor. Lots of owners do the same thing that you did. Also don't let her drink a big bowl of water around the time of vigorous activity. Small sips are ok but not huge gulps of water. So it's good to be careful and vigilant. The signs of Bloat include dry heaves (trying to vomit but nothing comes up), restlessness, not able to get comfortable, crying or moaning in discomfort, pacing, not wanting to lay down. I think you did the right thing walking her and I like the fact that you are aware of Bloat. Good job educating yourself on this important topic.

Yes with large breed dogs that eat a large meal and run around afterwards they think that does contributes to bloat which can quickly become life threatening. I would confine your dog while eating in the house for a half hour or so, or take him for a leash walk after eating so he gets rid of some energy in a controlled fashion. Feeding twice daily is better than one large meal also. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Cooper.

Potentially it can be, yes. To help prevent this, I would put Max in his own room about an hour before feeding time so he can calm down, feed him in that room, and then keep him in that room for an hour after he is done. That way, he will be calm before and after feeding. I hope this helps!

Even if it's the first time, there is always the chance she could get bloated. I would monitor her for the signs of bloat, such as a swollen abdomen, looking at the abdomen, labored breathing, excessive drooling, vomiting, and paleness of the nose and mouth. If you see any of those signs, you need to take Hope into your vet immediately.

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Buster. I would avoid a long walk with him tonight. He’s eaten more food than he should and you don’t want him to bloat. I would take him out just long enough to potty, then bring him back in. He can resume his normal walks tomorrow. Other than that, just keep an eye on him. I hope this helps!

This amount of water does not seem abnormal. The best thing that you can do to prevent bloat aside from feeding two smaller meals a day, which you are already doing, is to avoid heavy exercise for two hours after meal time. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

The action of eating will actually send signals to the bowels to start moving things out, so they will often feel like going right after a meal. If you are just letting him into a yard, then it's good to let him out for a few minutes right after a meal. If you're taking him for a walk, then better to wait about 30 minutes to let the stomach settle.