Dog Bloated and Not Eating: Is It Serious?

Dog Bloated and Not Eating: Common Causes 

1. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)

This is the most life-threatening cause of bloating in dogs and requires immediate emergency treatment. GDV, or “bloat with torsion,” occurs when the dog’s stomach fills with gas, then twists on itself.

Blood flow is cut off, and the stomach rapidly expands, causing severe pain and shock.

Key signs include:

• Bloated, tight belly

• Retching without producing vomit

• Excessive drooling

• Rapid heartbeat or collapse

• Distress, pacing, or whining

Large and deep-chested breeds (like Great Danes, German Shepherds, Boxers) are most at risk, but any dog can develop GDV.

If your dog is bloated and not eating and also restless or gagging, get to an emergency vet immediately—every minute counts.

2. Intestinal Obstruction

A blockage from a swallowed object (like a toy, bone, sock, or corn cob) can trap gas and food in the intestines, leading to visible bloating.

Dogs with partial or full obstructions may show:

• Vomiting (sometimes projectile or persistent)

• Loss of appetite

• Lethargy

• Abdominal tenderness

• Straining to poop or no bowel movement

This condition is painful and dangerous, as trapped material can damage or rupture the intestines.

Surgery is often needed to remove the obstruction and save the dog’s life.

If your dog is bloated and not eating and may have swallowed something, see your vet urgently.

Related: Dog vomiting and not eating (Causes and when to worry)

3. Gas or Indigestion

Sometimes bloating is caused by something more benign—like a buildup of gas after eating too fast or ingesting fermentable foods.

This is especially common in small or brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs that swallow air when eating quickly.

Dogs with mild gas buildup may appear bloated, but not painful. Other signs:

• Burping

• Flatulence

• Mild lethargy

• Temporary food refusal

Feeding smaller meals, using slow-feeder bowls, or switching to low-gas diets can help prevent this form of bloating.

However, even “harmless” gas should be watched closely—if it doesn’t improve in a few hours or worsens, it could progress to something more serious.

4. Liver or Spleen Enlargement

A bloated appearance can sometimes be due to organ enlargement, especially the liver or spleen. These vital organs may swell due to:

• Infections (like leptospirosis or hepatitis)

• Cancer or tumors

• Blood disorders

• Torsion or rupture (in the case of the spleen)

Dogs may show a firm belly, appetite loss, fatigue, or weight loss.

Appetite loss occurs because the organs crowd the stomach or cause pain.

Liver issues often lead to nausea and poor digestion, while spleen problems can cause internal bleeding or collapse.

Your vet may feel the enlarged organ during a physical exam and confirm with imaging.

5. Internal Bleeding

If your dog’s abdomen suddenly swells and they become pale, weak, or unresponsive, internal bleeding could be occurring.

This can result from trauma (like being hit by a car), a ruptured tumor, or clotting disorders.

Symptoms may include:

• Distended belly

• Pale gums

• Rapid breathing

• Weakness or collapse

• Refusing food and water

This is another emergency scenario. Dogs with internal bleeding need immediate stabilization, fluids, and potentially surgery.

6. Peritonitis (Abdominal Infection)

Peritonitis is an infection of the abdominal cavity, usually due to a ruptured organ, infection, or trauma. It leads to inflammation, fluid buildup, and bloating. Dogs with peritonitis feel extremely unwell.

Signs include:

• Hard, bloated abdomen

• Refusal to eat

• Fever or cold extremities

• Severe pain and lethargy

Peritonitis is extremely dangerous and always needs intensive veterinary care. Dogs may need antibiotics, IV fluids, and sometimes surgery to resolve the underlying infection.

What to Do If Your Dog Is Bloated and Not Eating

If you notice your dog has a swollen belly and isn’t eating, start by evaluating severity:

• Is your dog in obvious pain or trying to vomit?

• Is their belly hard or drum-like to the touch?

• Are they lethargic, panting, or showing signs of distress?

If the answer is yes to any of these, go to the vet immediately.

For mild bloating with no other symptoms:

• Keep your dog calm and resting

• Withhold food for 6–8 hours to reduce further gas buildup

• Encourage water drinking in small amounts

• Do not massage or press on their abdomen

• Monitor stool output and note any vomiting or behavioral changes

If the bloating doesn’t improve within a few hours—or worsens—seek veterinary help without delay.

When to Call or Visit Your Vet

Go to the vet or ER right away if:

• Your dog’s belly is hard, swollen, or painful

• They’re gagging, trying to vomit, or drooling heavily

• Your dog is weak, has pale gums, or collapses

• They haven’t eaten in 24 hours and seem uncomfortable

• You suspect they swallowed something dangerous

• Bloating appeared suddenly and won’t go down

Diagnostics may include abdominal X-rays, blood work, ultrasound, or emergency surgery depending on the suspected cause.

• Read more: Dog Belly Gurgling and Not Eating (When to worry)

• Related: Dog Acting Weird and Not Eating (Here’s why)

Key Takeaway

A dog bloated and not eating is always a sign that something’s wrong—and in some cases, it’s an emergency.

Whether it’s gas or a life-threatening condition like GDV, quick observation and action can make all the difference.

Monitor your dog closely, don’t wait too long to intervene, and always trust your instincts.

When in doubt, it’s safer to check in with your vet than to hope things resolve on their own.

Your dog’s health and comfort are worth every precaution.