What is Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus or GDV in dogs?
Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV), also known as bloat, is a life-threatening emergency in dogs. It occurs when the stomach fills with gas (dilatation) and then twists on itself (volvulus), cutting off the blood supply and trapping gas and contents inside.
When the stomach twists:
- Gas and fluids can't escape (vomiting is ineffective)
- Blood supply to the stomach (and sometimes spleen) is cut off
- Toxins build up, and blood flow to the heart is reduced
- Shock and death can occur in hours without intervention
Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published November 2025 | Review date November 2028 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Causes of GDV in dogs
GDV can happen in any dog, but it's most common in large, deep-chested breeds, such as: Great Danes (highest risk), German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, Dobermans, Weimaraners, Irish Setters, Boxers
Other risk factors:
Eating too fast
Eating one large meal per day
Drinking large amounts of water after eating
Exercising vigorously after meals
Stress or anxiety
Age (more common in middle-aged to older dogs)
Family history (genetic predisposition)
Symptoms of Bloat in dogs
Abdominal distension (bloating), the belly may look swollen.
Non-productive retching: if your dog tries to vomit but produces little or nothing.
Signs of discomfort, anxiety, and depression.
Drooling.
Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing.
Sudden weakness or collapse.
When to contact your vet
If you see any of the above symptoms or suspect Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV), even slightly, you must contact a vet immediately. This condition is a true emergency and can be fatal within hours if not treated.
Diagnosis
History and clinical examination by your vet
X-ray is the tool for a definitive diagnosis
Blood test, ECG and blood pressure
Treatment for GDV in dogs
Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV) is a true veterinary emergency that requires immediate treatment to save your dog’s life. Without urgent intervention, the condition can quickly lead to shock, organ failure, and death - often within hours.
Emergency stabilisation involves reverse shock and supports vital functions before surgery.
Your vet will:
Oxygen supplementation (if needed)
IV fluids
Pain relief
If possible, your vet may attempt to decompress the stomach using a stomach tube or large-bore needle through the abdominal wall to release gas
But this is only temporary relief, surgery is still required.
Emergency surgery for GDV in dogs
Emergency Surgery (Gastropexy + Correction):
Untwist the stomach
Check for damage to the stomach wall and other organs (especially the spleen)
Remove any dead or dying tissue
Perform a gastropexy a procedure that attaches the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent it from twisting again in the future.
After surgery, your dog will need:
Intensive monitoring (usually in the ICU for 24–72 hours)
IV fluids, antibiotics, and pain medication
A gradual reintroduction to food and water
Monitoring for complications like arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), infection, organ dysfunction, wound healing issues
Prevention of Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus in dogs
To prevent GDV, feed smaller, more frequent meals, avoid feeding from raised bowls, slow down fast eaters with puzzle feeders, restrict activity for an hour before and after meals, and minimise stress.
Outlook
The outlook for dogs with Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV) make a full recovery if:
they're treated within 1–2 hours of symptom onset
the stomach tissue is healthy
no severe complications develop
Dogs that have gastropexy (stomach tacking during surgery) have a very low chance of recurrence.