Bloat is the number one killer of large and deep-chested dogs such as Great Danes, German Shepherds and Dobermans. It is an emergency situation that could kill your pet in less than an hour. Bloat, formally called "Gastric Dilatation- Volvulus" (GDV) is a condition in which the stomach becomes overstretched. Bloat of the stomach is often related to excessive gas content but food and fluid can also be present. Stress and anxiety may also cause bloat to occur. Bloat is also referred to as torsion or gastric torsion and gastric dilation-volvulus when the stomach is also twisted.

There are many symptoms related to bloat. You dog may attempt to vomit every five to 30 minutes, but is usually unsuccessful (nothing comes up or just foam and/or mucous comes up). This symptom seems to be the most common symptom. He may seem to be restless all the time, frequently changing positions and he doesn't act like his usual self. Upon notice of these early signs, try to put your ears to your dog's tummy. If there is lack of normal gurgling and digestive sounds in the stomach, and the abdomen may feel tight, then you have all the reasons to call your vet, your dog is in danger of bloat. Other symptoms such as coughing, drooling, whining, shallow breathing and rapid panting may also be present.

Bloat cannot be treated at home. It is an emergency medical condition that requires the expertise of a veterinarian. Remember that bloat is a fatal condition that could kill your dog in a matter of minutes.

To reduce the chance of bloat to occur, make sure that your dog doesn't gulp a lot of food, water or air. Prohibit rapid eating and divide the food into two or three times daily, instead of just one. Allow access to fresh water at all times, except before or after meals and right after heavy exercise. Exercise and other vigorous activities should be avoided before and right after eating. Diet [lays an important role in the prevention of this disease and in ensuring good health in general. Feed a high-quality diet with high-protein and enough amount of fiber. If feeding dry food, avoid foods that contain fat as one of the first four ingredient and foods that contain citric acid.

Gastropexy is a recommended practice for Great Danes. It is a surgery in which the stomach is tacked to the right abdominal wall to prevent it from twisting in the future. It maybe done during surgery such as spaying and neutering but some veterinary surgeons will not do the operation if the actual sickness has not occurred.

It is important for every owners to know their Great Danes well so that they will know when there is something wrong with their gentle giant.