What Is Dog Bloat?

As the stomach swells, twisting may occur between the aesophagus and the upper intestine, resulting in the blood vessels to the stomach becoming restricted.

This twisting causes air, food and water to become trapped in the stomach and the dog will be unable to pass gas, (upwards) and will be unable to vomit.

Blood pressure is affected and the stomach and other organs are unable to function properly because of the loss of oxygen. Gas continues to build up and, without immediate treatment from the vet, it could prove fatal to your dog.

Dog bloat can occur in puppies but it's mostly seen in adult dogs of any size of dog breed; however, it's more commonly seen in the larger breeds or large chested dogs such as German Shepherds or Great Danes.

Bloat is not a common ailment of cocker spaniels; however, it's not unheard of.

What Causes Canine Bloat?

There are several reasons for dog bloat and we've listed some of them here for you:

• Bloat in dogs is often caused by excess swallowed air (usually as a result of rapid eating or drinking), overfeeding, and excess liquids.
• It has been suggested that elevated dog food bowls could cause bloat, however, there is insufficient evidence to prove or dispute this theory.
• Feeding your dog either immediately before or immediately after vigorous exercise.
• If your dog has a large deep chest he may be prone to canine bloat.
• It's thought that stress may cause canine bloat (for example, moving home or introducing another dog into the family).
• It may simply be hereditary.

What Are The Symptoms Of Canine Bloat?

The main sypmptoms of dog bloat include a tight, bloated stomach, an inability to vomit, excess drooling, and general discomfort in the abdominal area.

Additional symptoms may be present as follows:

• Your dog may make several unsuccessful attempts to be sick.
• He may become anxious and restless - he may be unable to settle comfortably.
• Your dog may have trouble breathing, which may cause panting.
• He may stand with his legs further apart than normal.

How To Prevent Dog Bloat

There are several things you can do to reduce the chances of your dog suffering from this potentially fatal condition.

• Because rapid feeding can cause bloat, it's recommended that you feed your dog multiple small meals throughout the day (2 or 3) rather than one large meal - he's also less likely to drink as much water after each small meal.
• Don't exercise your dog immediately after feeding - allow him to rest for at least 45 minutes before taking him for his walk.
• Don't feed your dog immediately before vigorous exercise.
• Don't allow your dog to drink too much water before exercising him or following a meal.

Allowing your dog to rest after a meal will help with digestion and allow any gases to be released - preferably through the upper body! - and will help to reduce the risk of canine bloat.

This article offers only a basic outline of canine bloat. We are not vets - simply dog owners with a passion for Cocker Spaniels.

If you have any questions, or you believe your Cocker Spaniel may be suffering from dog bloat, don't delay, as every second counts - get your dog to your veterinary surgery immediately!

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