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and often have an arched back or look at their abdomen. As shock sets in (1) and pulses weaken. Eventually (1) gums turn pale (1) may pace or have difficulty getting comfortable (1) Signs come on suddenly. The dog’s abdomen becomes distended (bloated) and firm to the touch – often most noticeable behind the ribcage on the left side. The dog may retch unproductively (trying to vomit but nothing comes up except maybe foamy saliva). Drooling and panting are common due to pain and nausea. Affected dogs appear extremely restless or anxious (1) the dog may collapse (1) the heart rate rises (1)
Symptom matches are best-effort. If a symptom is severe or sudden, contact a veterinarian promptly.

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Image for Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
Dog - Large, Deep-Chested Breeds (Great Dane, St. Bernard, Weimaraner, German Shepherd, etc.)
Signs come on suddenly. The dog’s abdomen becomes distended (bloated) and firm to the touch – often most noticeable behind the ribcage on the left side. The dog may retch unproductively (trying to vomit but nothing comes up except maybe foamy saliva). Drooling and panting are common due to pain and nausea. Affected dogs appear extremely restless or anxious may pace or have difficulty getting comfortable and often have an arched back or look at their abdomen. As shock sets in gums turn pale the heart rate rises and pulses weaken. Eventually +1 more

Bloat (GDV) is a life-threatening emergency in which the stomach fills with gas and fluid (dilatation) and th…

For pet owners
Use this page to learn what a symptom can mean, what to track at home, and when to get help. Bring notes to your appointment (timeline, appetite, water intake, urination, stool, vomiting episodes, medications and supplements).
For veterinary perspective
Each condition page summarizes common presentations, typical evaluation steps, and treatment approaches. It is not a substitute for diagnosis. Your veterinarian will consider breed, age, exam findings, and tests.