Bloat Prevention

New Thoughts about Bloat Prevention

For those who don't know, bloat occurs when a dog's stomach flips, cutting off the blood supply to the spleen and other tissues. This is important information because standard poodles, due to their deep chest, are one of the breeds more susceptible to bloat. 

For many years, the standard thought has been that avoiding physical activity following a meal would help prevent bloat. I rarely hear of a Doodle having this problem; however, since most doodles inherit the build of their poodle parent, it's always better to be aware of a situation and plan accordingly.

Recent research has brought to light some potentially beneficial findings for bloat prevention. Moderate exercise following a meal can stimulate the digestive tract, potentially reducing the risk of bloat. Although not definitive, another interesting finding from the study suggested that dogs fed moistened kibble developed bloat less frequently than those eating dry kibble. The theory is that the wet kibble had already expanded, leading to less stomach expansion after consumption. While this part of the study didn't show a significant difference in the overall result, these findings can provide some reassurance and confidence in your dog's care.

In the final analysis, the researchers concluded that a leisurely walk can aid your doodle's digestion. However, it's crucial to remember that you should still wait an hour after a meal before engaging in vigorous activities like a game of fetch or a long run. This responsible approach to your dog's care can significantly affect their health and well-being.