Getting a new dog is always exciting, but before deciding which breed you want, you should do a bit of research to make sure you know what you’re getting into. That means learning about the kind of care that the breed needs and their typical temperament, but it also means finding out the potential health problems that you might run into. One serious health issue in dogs is bloat.
But what exactly is this health condition, and which breeds are the most likely to experience it? We compiled this list of the dog breeds that are most prone to bloat, so keep reading to see if the one that you’re considering is on here.
What Is Bloat?
Bloat is an early stage of gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV),1 a life-threatening condition that most often affects large and giant breeds (though any breed can be affected). When it occurs, the affected dog’s stomach fills up with gas, resulting in gastric dilatation, or bloat.
For some dogs, bloat is where it stops, and the GDV doesn’t progress. But in other dogs, the gas-filled stomach gets twisted up, blocking the opening and exit. This is a possibly fatal situation, and surgery is required immediately to remedy the problem.
The 12 Dog Breeds Prone to Bloat
Here are the breeds that are most likely to deal with bloat.
1. Great Dane
These gentle giants are the number-one breed to experience bloat,2 and bloat is one of the top killers of the breed. In fact, compared to other dogs, Great Danes are 43.2 times more prone to bloat, and approximately 39% of all Great Danes will deal with it in their lifetime. So, if you’ve been eyeing getting this breed, you need to be aware of this issue, and you need to know the signs of bloat so you can keep an eye out for it.
2. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are one of the largest dogs around, and as a deep-chested breed, they are prone to bloat. In general, dogs weighing more than 99 pounds are 20% more likely to experience bloat,3making the breed even more likely to experience it. Saint Bernard owners should always watch their pups carefully!
3. Weimaraner
This dog breed is a bit smaller than the Great Dane and Saint Bernard, so you might not automatically think of them as being likely to deal with bloat. However, due to their deep chest, they are prone to experiencing it. This is another dog that owners need to keep a close eye on.
4. Akita
The Akita breed is large and powerful and hails from Japan. You’ll often find them working as a guard or police dog. Unfortunately, they are also likely to experience bloat in their lifetime due to their size and deep chest. So, if you’re an Akita parent, know the signs of bloat so you can recognize them if they appear.
5. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are adorable with their floppy ears and can be super friendly. Whether you have a Basset Hound as a family pet or a hunting dog, as long as you keep them active and mentally stimulated, you’ll have a loyal friend for life. However, you will need to watch for any signs of bloat, as the breed is prone to it.
6. Boxer
Boxers have been around for ages and are among the most recognizable breeds. Their playful natures make them wonderful family pets, but you might find training them to be a challenge due to their inability to pay attention for long. The breed is also the 16thmost at risk for getting bloat, as they are 3.7 times more likely to experience it than other breeds.
7. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers sometimes get a bad rep for being aggressive, but they’re incredibly sweet dogs that with proper training, can make terrific pets (plus, they’re great at being guard dogs!). These highly intelligent pups are excellent working dogs and can often be found with the military and police. Unfortunately, they are also prone to bloat due to their size, which means keeping a close eye out for any signs.
8. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are incredibly popular in America, which isn’t surprising considering they are fabulous working animals and pets. These dogs are loyal and protective but can also be extremely friendly and affectionate. While the propensity toward bloat in this breed is due to their size, there may also be a genetic factor at work (at least according to one 2020 study).
9. Irish Setter
These absolutely gorgeous pups love to run and play, so you’ll need to keep them busy! The breed is also affectionate and friendly, making them a wonderful playmate for kids. But Irish Setters are also prone to developing bloat, so owners will need to learn what signs to watch for.
10. Newfoundland
These water-loving dogs can be fairly massive and have deep chests, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that they are likely to experience bloat. So, if you have a Newfoundland, enjoy your giant, gentle, lazy pup, but be aware that bloat can occur. Watch for any signs, and take steps to prevent the disorder in the first place.
11. Old English Sheepdog
This large breed is known for their curly, shaggy coat and is super adorable. The Old English Sheepdog is also laidback, easygoing, and affectionate, making them wonderful family dogs. However, due to their size, they are prone to developing bloat, so watch for signs throughout their lifetime.
12. Standard Poodle
The Standard Poodle looks elegant and a bit aloof, which is why they make excellent show dogs. But these pups are intelligent, friendly, and quite sweet, which is why they aake fabulous pets. The breed also has a higher risk of experiencing bloat.
Signs of Bloat
Now that you know the breeds most prone to bloat, it’s time to learn the signs of the conditoin. Knowing these can mean the difference between saving your dog’s life or having a tragic incident. If your dog is experiencing bloat, you’ll see some or all of the following signs:
- Swollen abdomen
- Pacing and restlessness
- Vomiting (or attempting to vomit)
- Lots of drool
- Panting
- General air of distress
- Inability to stand up
If you see any of these in your dog, get them to the vet immediately! Waiting could lead to tragedy.
Summary
Unfortunately, Bloat is common in large dogs and those with deep chests (though it can occur in any size breed). The breeds listed here are the ones most prone to bloat, so if you own one, be aware. Know the signs of bloat, and if you see them, get your dog to a vet as soon as possible to avoid the condition becoming life-threatening!
Featured Image Credit: Taisya Korchak, Shutterstock
