Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) in Dogs: What Every Pet Parent Should Know
What is GDV or “Twisted Stomach”?
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), often called bloat, is a life-threatening condition. It occurs when the dog’s stomach fills with gas or food and twists on itself, cutting off blood supply and putting pressure on vital organs. Without immediate veterinary intervention, GDV can be fatal within hours
Which Dogs Are at Highest Risk?
- Large and giant breeds with deep chests, such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, and Irish Wolfhounds
- Older dogs
- Male dogs, with neutered males having slightly higher risk
- Dogs with a family history of GDV
Behavioral and Environmental Risk Factors
- Eating too quickly and swallowing air
- Eating only one large meal per day
- Drinking large amounts of water or exercising right before or after meals
- High-stress or anxious temperament
- Raised feeding bowls may increase risk
Diet and Nutrition Risk Factors
- Dry kibble with fat or seed oils among the first four ingredients increases GDV risk
- Small kibble size (<30mm) increases risk, while larger chunks lower it
- Dogs fed two or three smaller meals daily face significantly lower risk than those fed once a day
Emergency Signs of GDV
- Abnormally swollen or distended abdomen
- Excessive drooling, restlessness
- Unproductive retching or attempts to vomit
- Rapid breathing or weakness
- Collapse or inability to stand
If you notice these signs, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. With rapid surgical intervention, survival rates can reach 80%
How to Prevent GDV in Dogs
- Split meals into two to three smaller portions daily
- Use a slow feeder bowl to reduce gulping and air swallowing
- Avoid exercise and heavy water intake before or after meals
- Consider prophylactic gastropexy surgery for high-risk breeds
PETClub Slow Feeder Housebrand
At PETClub, we care about every pet’s health. Our Slow Feeder Bowl (Outward Hound and PetDreamHouse) is designed to help your dog eat at a safer pace, reducing the risk of bloat and promoting healthy digestion.
- Special design to slow down eating
- Safe, easy-to-clean materials
- Ideal for large and deep-chested breeds at higher GDV risk
