My German Shepherd is prone to bloat. How can I prevent it?

Yes, GSDs are prone to GDV (gastric dilatation volvus). This is because they are large breed, deep chested dogs, which research has shown have an increased risk for GDV. It has been reported in puppies, but risk increases with age. It is life threatening, and it requires immediate medical attention as the dog will die if not treated. That being said, because a GDV is so serious, there is still a risk of death even with being treated. The treatment is to decompress the stomach, and surgery to fix the stomach to the thoracic wall using the ribs to prevent it from happening again. As a preventative measure, you have have surgery done on Bruno to fix his stomach to his thoracic wall now, which would prevent GDV from happening. Yes, I have seen this in GSDs, and when it does occur, it is an emergency.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Sryker. It is good that he only steps a small amount of food this time. I would monitor him very closely today. If he starts to show signs similar to his first incident, then he will need to see his veterinarian. If he does well, then do not feed him tonight. Offer plenty of fresh water if he wants it. I hope this information helps!

I certainly understand being worried about bloat! It can be a common problem in deep chested dogs like a GSD, but it's a good sign that he is acting normal. EPI can cause farting, so that may be the reason behind his gas. I would monitor him closely tonight. If you see unproductive vomiting (trying to vomit but nothing coming out), pacing, anxiety, excessive drooling, weak pulse, labored breathing, or abdominal pain, then definitely take Thor into an ER vet tonight. Otherwise it's fine to wait until the morning. I hope this helps!

I strongly recommend you get him checked by your vet tomorrow, fluid build up from heart orr liver disease can give the appearance of bloating. A full physical or and possibly ultrasound may be required

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.

I would just watch him really closely for bloating and at retching. If either of these are noticed, it is an emergency and you need to take him to a vet ASAP. I would make him rest for the rest of the day and not let him getting too active. If you are unsure, it is always best to have them checked out to ensure everything is okay. I hope this helps!

Excessive flatulence can have several causes. If Cujo eats fast, he may be swallowing a lot of air which has to come out eventually from either end. Divide his meals into smaller, more frequent portions or use a "slow feed" bowl to regulate his eating. You can also raise the bowls to prevent or limit air swallowing. Parasites can also be the cause. You can submit a stool sample to your vet to diagnose intestinal parasites. Diet plays a large role as well. Feed a premium diet, preferably grain free. These diets are more easily digested and the lack of grains decreases possible fermentation in the gut. You can also consider a probiotic such as ProViable or ProStora to promote gut health.