That webpage is pretty good. Bloat is usually caused by dogs that gulp their food...basically eating it really fast, and they inhale a lot of air while doing this. You can wet the food down, which expands it and slows them down, or you can put a big rock in the middle of their food bowl, also slowing them down by having to eat around the rock.

GSDs...hmm.. Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Displasia, vWD, BLoat, Cataracts, Pancreatic Enzyme Deficiency, allergies, heart problems...you name it, they can get it. A trip to the vet would do you good, and make sure you're watching the eating/drinking habits, as well as urination/bowel movements, as any owner should. I've known a lot of GSDs that get bladder infections/UTIs.

I know you asked for temperment issues in another post, as well. They are usually extreme one person/family dogs, and very protective. A lot are dog aggressive, as well as people aggressive. They can either be really dominant, or incredibly shy, resulting in fear biting issues. Working in a kennel, a lot of them are cage aggressive/fence aggressive. This dosen't mean, though, that they can't be around strangers, it just takes socialization. They are extremely intelligent and high drive, they love to be out and about. You might want to make sure he is temperment tested. I do like the breed a lot, but its not for everyone. I have one now, yes, but I'm not sure if I would have another. I don't think I would get one from a breeder, I rescued mine. She's one of my best dogs though.