Gastric torsion in dogs

As hunters and pack animals, dogs have a highly adaptable stomach: Wolves, which are closely related to dogs, often have to fast for a considerable length of time after a successful hunt. Their stomachs are therefore able to digest a very large amount of food when it becomes available. Similarly, dogs have retained the ability to consume excessive amounts of food. After eating, it is important that they are able to rest and have the opportunity to digest the food without being disturbed.

If this is not the case and the dog plays instead of resting after a large meal, there will be a severe build-up of gas in its stomach. Normally, the air is expelled through the oesophagus and bowels. However, unfavourable movements or a rapid build-up of gas can cause the outlets of the bloated stomach to close, resulting in dangerous gastric torsion. Here, important blood vessels inside the stomach are cut off and a fatal circulatory shock occurs within a few hours.

As a preventative measure, you should always allow your dog to rest after it has eaten. Also, avoid giving your dog large amounts of food all at once and instead spread them out over several meals.