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My dog has bloat symptoms. What is bloat, is it dangerous, what now?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | neutered | 9 years and 8 months old | 2 lbs

Showing symptoms of Bloat along with my other dog that is 9 months old & is Shar~Pei/American Pitbull Terrier mix. What is Bloat & what are the symptoms? Is Bloat dangerous. & What will happen to my babies if I can't afford to take them to the vet to get​checked to see whats wrong with them?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 13th, 2017

Hello. "Bloat" is the name typically given to "GDV" or "Gastric Dilated Volvulus" where the stomach fills with gas and flips. This causes the stomach to become distended and hard, dogs will usually collapse, have a hard and tight and big stomach, and often look like they are trying to throw up but can't. This is most common in large breed deep chested dogs. Uncommon in JRTs. Food bloat can occur as well, as can a gas bloat where the stomach doesn't flip. GDVs will die very painful deaths and quickly without surgery, and you should NEVER wait if you think your dog has a GDV. Food bloat can be very painful as well, and can look very similar, however they recover nicely. When in doubt, bring your dog to the vet, but if you are worried about a bloat do not wait. Good luck with your little one!

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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