Gastric dilation is a serious form of indigestion that can lead to twisting of the stomach (volvulus) and must be treated by a veterinarian immediately. Large breed dogs (e.g. Great Danes & German shepherds) may be more predisposed, but gastric dilation can occur in any large deep chested breed. Risk factors for developing gastric dilation (bloat) are excess activity after eating large amounts of food or water, any intense activity, or stress.