Large dogs often suffer from the same problems, regardless of the breed. Bloat is one such problem common to large dogs like the Komondor. While the causes of bloat are not yet known, the effects can be deadly. You need to be able to recognize the symptoms of bloat in your dog and know how to handle it if it arises.
Bloat is evident in a Komondor when its stomach appears extended and enlarged. This is due to the stomach filling up with gas. This alone is not what kills the dog. It is the further extension of the stomach that presses up against the heart cavity and stomach torsioning that ends up being fatal. As the stomach twists and turns, the blood flows back into other organs and makes them swell. If you suspect bloat, you need to take the dog to the veterinarian right away. They will tap on the dog's stomach to see if it sounds like a drum and also do other tests to evaluate your dog.
One way to determine if it is just a minor discomfort or bloat is to give the dog some water to drink. If the water comes back out, forcefully, then you probably have a dog that is experiencing torsion. Sometimes the dog may not appear to be bloated but the stomach is torsioning regardless. Some owners try to relieve the gas themselves by puncturing the wall of the stomach with a large needle. This can weaken the dog's stomach wall and lead to it rupturing as the bloating continues possibly causing death. It is best to leave any type of intrusive intervention to the skilled hands of your veterinarian.
Although the causes of bloat are not known, it does appear that stress can be a contributor to the condition. Some dogs have a more delicate temperament than others and can be easily stressed. If you think your dog is stressing, try to relieve the anxiety and get it calm to avoid contributing to bloat.
Your veterinarian may decide to drop a tube to relieve the pent up pressure of the gas. Since the stomach is twisting and untwisting, the bloating can return or be missed on an x-ray. The veterinarian will have to operate if they find that the dog is bloating.
There are many dogs that experience bloating. The larger breeds in particular are prone to this condition. It can be fatal, but your veterinarian can also successfully treat it. Learn to recognize the symptoms of bloating so that you can save your dog's life, should it ever occur. Until further understanding of the causes of this condition are revealed, you won't be able to really predict when or if a dog will experience bloating in their lifetime. While stress is a factor, it is not the cause. So, do help to keep your dog comfortable and keep an eye out for this potentially fatal condition.
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