There are several health issues that are more common with this breed than others.... One is
cancer, another is
Cardiomyopathy... and the one that we will discuss here: Bloat.
Of the over 200 dog breeds that exist, the Boxer is the 16th most at risk. And the Boxer’s risk ration is 3.7; meaning that this breed is 3.7 times more likely to develop bloat than a typical mixed breed. Therefore, owners must know about bloat, signs and treatment.
This is also known as Killer Bloat and the official name is Gastric Dilatation Volvulus. This is a very serious canine health problem. When this strikes to a serious degree, it is fatal in up to 50% of cases.
There are actually 2 different ailments that are both referred to as bloat and each is serious in their own right.
1) The dog's stomach distends with gas and fluid. There may be a slight rotation of the stomach (less than 180 degrees).
2)
The distended stomach twists anywhere from 180 to 360 degrees. The spleen, which is connected to the stomach wall, rotates out as well. This severe twisting is called volvulus.
It is this 2nd instance that is life threatening.