Ask Dr Claire

Is there a way to tell if a dog has a distended stomach when you are unfamiliar with how the dog’s stomach feels normally?

When a dog has a distended stomach their abdomen (from the ribs back to the pelvis) becomes very firm to the touch and can be painful. Dogs may also gag (or dry wretch) and be reluctant move around like usual.

A normal abdomen should be soft and not painful to touch.

If you’re unsure and the dog seems depressed or not himself, getting to the local veterinarian as soon as possible for a hands-on examination is the best approach to take.

If you’d like to chat in person, you can book a live video call or start a chat to discuss in more detail, as soon as possible.

We’re here to help!

Chat soon,
Dr Claire