My mums old GSD is off her food today and she is worried. Earlier this week she was sick, just once.  She says that she also has what feels like a very full stomach, which is quite firm, but she is not anxious or restless or anything like that (cos I though maybe bloat at first). She just rang me and said she did eventually eat what should have been her breakfast this evening. She is 11.  She says that otherwise she is OK, went for her little walk etc. and is quite happy.  My other thought was hemangiosarcoma, with the stomach being distended. I didn't say this to Mum and thought I would ask here whether loss of appetite like described could be a symptom.  I thought of it because a frind had a GSD which died from this and he had a swollen stomach.  I have said she should get her to a vet tomorrow, unless she seems distressed or anxious in which case she should go straight away.

Another possible cause of distended stomach could be an enlarged spleen. Splenectomy can be very successful if done early enough, so I would get her to he vet as soon as possible.

Sorry to hear your Mum's GSD appears poorly.

I think I would be getting her to the Vet straightaway.  Let's hope it is nothing sinister, but I think you are right to be concerned.  If her abdomen feels as you describe, it could be caused by a number of different things and I would want it checked out as soon as possible.  The earlier she is seen the more chance you have of preventing any discomfort, pain or distress if there is something brewing ...

Good luck.  Let us know how she gets on.   XXX

They took her to the vet this morning and she is to go in for an xray tomorrow. The vet isn't sure what it is, but agrees that her tum doesn't feel right.  Couldn't feel any lumps or anything. Doesn't think it is a blockage and she is going to the loo, but small poos. She really doesn't seem in any discomfort and is bright in herself except for the fussing over food.  She ate her dinner with just a little encouragement last night apparently.  Bit worried about an anaesthetic at her age, but they will do all pre tests, and the vet doesn't want to take a chance on doing nothing.  Fingers crossed for Bunny everyone please.

hope she gets sorted out soon,fingers and paws crossed for her.
sheila

if it's just an xray can't they just sedate her? I've definitely had a dog xrayed under sedation for a suspected blockage.

They think it is gas, caused by a bacterial infection. Bloods to confirm, but she should be OK.

That's a relief!  Very worrying for everyone.  Hope she continues to go on OK and has a full recovery.