Canine Bloat Return to Library Index Canine Bloat Canine bloat is a distressing condition also known as gastric dilatation-torsion.
Gas accumulates rapidly in the dog's stomach causing it to swell and sometimes twist.
It can involve the spleen. Emergency action is vital since the dog may die within hours. Understanding the possible causes is the first step in preventing bloat. The problem most often developes in large-breed, deep chested dogs like Dobermans, Saint Bernards and Golden Retrievers. Scientists do not know the exact cause of dilatation-torsion but believe it may be related to the angle of the stomach in relation to the backbone, making it difficult for gas to escape.