Veterinarian Sheds Light on Danger of Bloat in Dogs and How to Prevent It

Natalie Hoage
CC sonsart/Shutterstock

If you're a pet parent to a dog, you won't want to miss this video that veterinarian Amir Anwary shared on TikTok on Wednesday, August 21st because it could save your dog from a lot of pain, and potentially death. I was unaware of a condition that some dogs get called bloat, caused by eating or drinking too fast. It's scary, and something we should all understand and try to prevent.

Dr. Anwary explains that what bloat is, how it happens, and how to prevent it in this short video. While it normally happens to large dogs with deep chests, he says that he's seen it happen before to smaller dogs as well. Listen in as he describes what happens to a dog with bloat, and how you can help your dog avoid getting it.

I've had dogs since I was a child, and I've never heard of this! It's terrifying to think your fur baby could eat too fast and die. Dr. Anwary's video brought up a lot of questions and people shared their own experiences with dog bloat. @Roseemily Mathews shared, "Bloat absolutely terrifies me with my GSD." Another commenter shared, "I have a 9-week-old Great Dane and this and Wobbler Syndrome are my worst fears."

@Leoni Esterhuysen asked, "We use a slow feeder bowl but how can we help with water drinking?" and commenter @Kirstie replied, "They do a slow water bowl that they can only get so much water out of at a time, they’re fantastic for slowing them down. It’s called a “non-spill water bowl”. Other option is just limiting the amount of water in their normal bowl so they can't drink so much all in one go." Good tip!

Related: Mom Issues Warning About the Danger of Taking Dogs to the Beach After Pup Falls Sick

Symptoms of Bloating in Dogs

Commenter @Corina asked, "Vet tech here. Can you follow with some things for owners to look for? That way pet parents can be aware of symptoms?" As scary as bloat is, it's very important to understand the symptoms of bloat so that you can act fast if it happens.

Another PetHelpful article shared the main symptoms of bloat:

  • A painful, distended abdomen full of gas

  • Retching: frequent, unproductive attempts to vomit

  • Attempts to pass stool

  • Lack of gurgling sounds in the stomach

  • Drooling from nausea

  • Pacing, restlessness, anxiety

  • Dark red gums at first, then pale, cold gums signaling lack of oxygen

If you suspect that your dog has bloat, consult with your vet immediately. "Bloat and gastric torsion are medical emergencies which may cause death in as little as an hour or two after symptoms begin."

The same article recommends keeping Gas-X on hand and using that to relieve some discomfort before taking your dog to the vet, "It is important to note that Gas-X will not cure the bloat, though it may buy some time as you take the dog to the vet." Walker Valley Vet recommends the following dosage depending on your dog's size: Small: ¼ adult dose, Medium: ½ adult dose, and Large: 1 adult dose.

Remember that prevention is key, so if you have a dog that's a fast eater or drinker, slow feeders and non-spill water bowls are worth the investment. Dr. Anwary also followed up and posted another video about how to identify bloat symptoms. Check it out because it could save a life.

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