Bloat, also known as gastric torsion or GDV, is one of the most serious emergencies a dog can face. It comes on fast and can be fatal if not treated immediately. But the good news is, it can often be prevented with the right care and diet.
Contents
What is bloat?
What are the symptoms?
How is bloat diagnosed?
What causes bloat?
Treatment and surgery
How to reduce the risk
Holistic prevention tips
What about flatulence?
The role of probiotics and prebiotics
How raw feeding can help
Top 5 Takeouts
1. What is bloat?
Bloat is when the dog’s stomach fills with gas and becomes dangerously swollen. In some cases, the stomach also twists. This cuts off circulation, traps gas inside and leads to shock, organ failure and, without treatment, death. It mainly affects large, deep-chested dogs and tends to appear later in life. It is extremely serious and requires immediate vet care.
2. What are the symptoms?
Bloat can appear suddenly. Look out for:
Swollen or tight belly
Restlessness or pacing
Trying to vomit with little or no result
Drooling or panting
Weakness or collapse
Pale gums
Laboured breathing
If your dog shows any of these signs, call your vet straight away.
3. How is bloat diagnosed?
A vet will assess symptoms and confirm the diagnosis with:
X-rays of the abdomen
Blood tests, especially for lactate levels
Urine analysis
Speed is essential, as every minute matters once torsion has occurred.
4. What causes bloat?
Bloat happens when gas builds up in the stomach and cannot escape. This can lead to dilation or, in severe cases, torsion. The exact trigger is not always clear, but several risk factors have been identified. Dogs are more at risk if they:
Are anxious or highly stressed
Have a deep, narrow chest
Eat one large meal a day or gulp their food
Are fed dry kibble or processed diets high in fat
Have close relatives who have suffered from bloat
Are older, especially over the age of 7
Interestingly, limiting exercise or water around mealtimes has not been shown to reduce the risk.
5. Treatment and surgery
If bloat is confirmed, emergency treatment will begin immediately. This may include:
Relieving gas pressure through a tube or needle
Intravenous fluids and medication to stabilise the heart
Surgery to untwist the stomach and check internal damage
Securing the stomach to prevent it from rotating again (gastropexy)
Prognosis is improving as awareness and emergency care improve. Still, quick action is vital.
6. How to reduce the risk
There are many simple ways to reduce your dog’s chance of developing bloat:
Feed two or more smaller meals each day
Use a slow-feeder bowl if your dog gulps food
Avoid kibble or high-fat processed foods
Maintain a calm mealtime routine, free from stress
Talk to your vet about preventative surgery (gastropexy)
Choose a raw, natural diet that supports healthy digestion
7. Holistic prevention tips
Some holistic vets recommend additional support, especially for dogs with a family history of bloat. Options may include:
Chinese herbal formulas
Homeopathic remedies
Digestive enzymes
Calming therapies such as massage or flower essences
Probiotics to improve gut balance
As always, work with a qualified vet or holistic practitioner.
8. What about flatulence?
Most dogs produce a bit of gas, but excessive flatulence may be a sign of poor digestion. The most common culprits include:
Carbohydrates in processed foods
Antibiotics that disrupt gut bacteria
Certain vegetables
To reduce gas:
Cut out dry or starchy food
Try probiotics after antibiotics
Reduce the amount or type of veg in raw meals
Add a small amount of bone meal or raw chicken wings
9. The role of probiotics and prebiotics
Good gut health starts with a balance of friendly bacteria. That means:
Probiotics: live bacteria that support digestion
Prebiotics: natural fibres that feed these good bacteria
Both are widely available in human-grade form and are safe for dogs. Choose a probiotic with Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium, and use aloe vera or chicory root as a natural prebiotic. These are especially helpful after illness, antibiotics or stress.
10. How raw feeding can help
Raw feeding is one of the best ways to support digestive health and prevent bloat. Here’s why:
No fermenting carbs or filler
Lean meats are easier to digest
You can control fat content more precisely
Meals are naturally moist and not dehydrating
Dogs tend to eat more calmly and feel satisfied
💡 Poppy’s Tip: If your dog has had bloat or is at high risk, try smaller, frequent raw meals with lean proteins, green tripe and minimal veg.
Top 5 Takeouts
Bloat is a life-threatening emergency, especially if the stomach twists. Call your vet straight away if you suspect it.
Certain breeds and behaviours increase the risk, such as fast eating, high-stress levels and dry, fatty diets.
Prevention is possible, especially by feeding smaller meals, avoiding kibble and supporting gut health.
Holistic tools like probiotics, calming therapies and raw feeding can all reduce bloat risk naturally.
A raw diet supports digestion, reduces gas and helps maintain a healthy weight, all of which protect against bloat.
If your dog is prone to bloat or you want to reduce the risk, we can help you switch to a gentle raw diet that supports every part of their digestive system, naturally and simply.