Deep-chested dogs have narrow, tall rib cages that fall lower on their body – usually below the elbows of the dog's front legs. Their chest is typically egg- or oval-shaped, and taller than it is wide.
A deep-chested dog usually has a chest that extends to or below their elbows, making them proportionately deeper and narrower than normal or barrel-chested dogs. Deep-chestedness is proportionate, and although many large breeds are represented, small and medium dog breeds can be deep-chested also.
Australian shepherds are medium-sized, deep-chested, and slightly longer than they are tall, with relatively straight front legs, a combination which helps them maintain both agility and endurance.
Large-breed and deep-chested dogs are at the highest risk of developing bloat.
Bloat, also known as GDV or Gastric Dilatation Volvulus, is a serious condition primarily seen in large, deep-chested dogs and is considered a serious emergency in veterinary medicine.
Some dogs with bloat will still want to eat because they are food-orientated. They will do virtually anything for treats. However, bloat in dogs is quite painful. Once the dog associates the pain with food, it is likely that they'll stop eating.
Commonly affected breeds include Great Danes, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, Basset Hounds, Weimaraners, and Irish Setters. "Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is a life-threatening condition that is most commonly observed in deep-chested, large breed dogs."
In addition to Great Danes, large- or giant-breed dogs at greatest risk include St. Bernards, Weimaraners, Irish Setters and Gordon Setters, Standard Poodles, and Doberman Pinschers. Males are twice as likely to bloat as females. Neutering or spaying has no effect on risk.
Pet owners can expect to pay between $1,500 to $7,500 for gastric dilatation-volvulus surgery in dogs, as well as for post-operative care. If the owner has pet insurance, it's possible that most or even all the cost of bloat surgery for dogs will be covered.
Breed History and Origin
Descendants of Australian Shepherds were likely European herding dogs from the Basque region of the Pyrenees Mountains. These ancestors are thought to have been bred with the Border Collie and other herding dog breeds to create the Australian Shepherd we all know and love.
The exact cause of GDV is still unknown. The condition is seen more commonly in large, deep-chested male dogs. Exercise after ingestion of large meals or large amounts of water may increase risk. "Stress may be a contributing factor to GDV..."
Pit bull-type dogs typically have muscular, stocky builds with deep chests and large, square heads.
Shih Tzus are small, but they are well-built and muscular. They have broad, deep chests and compact bodies slightly longer than tall.
The classic sign of bloat is unproductive retching (it looks like your dog has to throw up but nothing comes out). The abdomen appears to be swollen and firm to the touch. Breathing may also appear to be labored and they may have a hard time getting up or even collapse.
10) Bloat prevention
A dog fed a moist diet – raw, canned, or moistened dry food – is much less likely to develop bloat, also known as gastric dilatation and volvulus, which is a potentially life-threatening condition in dogs.
Water Intake Is Also Important When Trying to Prevent Bloat
Drinking water not only stretches the stomach but your dog likely intakes a lot of air if they are drinking water too quickly. If you notice them gorging themselves on water, take the bowl away for a little while to let them calm down.
Feed Canned Food
Canned/wet dog food has extra moisture which dogs need and it's easier for a dog to digest than dry kibble. Mix some canned food with your dog's regular kibble or switch to canned food exclusively if you want to prevent your dog from developing bloat.
After proper diagnosis, dogs with simple bloat tend to bounce back into their normal lives and routines 1 to 2 days after receiving fluids and taking frequent walks.
It occurs primarily in large, deep-chested breeds. Bloat occurs without warning and is very difficult to treat. It does not seem to affect one sex more than the other, but is more likely to occur as a dog ages. Bloat commonly occurs in dogs between the ages of 7 and 12 years.
Commonly referred to as "bloat," GDV occurs when a dog's stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid and subsequently twists. GDV develops without warning and can progress quickly. It is always an emergency. Stomach distension alone is referred to as a “simple bloat”, or dilatation.