The big bad B word: Bloat!

If you are interested in Great Danes, like I am, I'm sure you have come across this scary word. It is a major health concern for Great Danes of any age.
If you aren't familiar with this condition you can read more on Pet WebMD. 

There are several ways in which Dane owners can reduce their dog's risk of bloat. Habitual breaks before and after meals and some feeding tools can ease your worry and your dog's stomach!

Some of the best suggestions I have found in the many months that I have been researching and planning for my dog have been a mixture of both strict scheduling and commercial products.  

1. Before Meal Break: (~15min.) let the dog calm down/relax. Meal time anxiety can be problematic for any size dog. You can take this time to practice his new tricks (low energy) or just calm TV/cuddles time!
2. Elevated Feeding Stand: There are several on the market for 'normal' sized dogs but when it comes to Danes you are going to want something adjustable and tall :). This helps the feeding process to occur at a more natural digestive angle. This link is a DIY and I think an IKEA trip is called for! XD                
3. Slow Feed Bowl:  These types of food bowls usually have some sort of raised design (circular/x-shaped/dots) in the well of the bowl so that the dog cannot gulp up the food (and air with it!) and he is forced to pace himself by working around the obstruction.
    
4. After Meal break: (~15min.) down time like that before meals but this is more focused on no exercise right after feeding as to reduce the chance of stomach contortion.

I plan to crate my dog for the Before and After meal breaks just to set him up on a ridged schedule from the beginning! (This is mostly because I am a student and will be in grad school for the first years of his life and want him to be used a regimen) Don't worry there will be plenty of play time and walk and fetching but not around meals! (Safety First)

PRO TIP: They make slow feed inserts if you already own food bowls and don't have to buy new!