Dog vomiting is treatable and can resolve itself in some cases. Your vet can diagnose the cause of dog vomiting and recommend appropriate care, which might include medication, pain relief, fluids, dietary changes, parasite treatment or hospital treatment.
Our VetPartners practices can support you in all aspects of your dog’s care – even the parts that aren’t so pleasant!
When a dog vomits, they bring up the contents of their stomach. They might also feel unwell, have less energy than usual and have a reduced appetite.
Dog vomiting can sometimes be confused with regurgitation, so it can be helpful to film a vomiting episode to show your vet.
Most dogs will vomit at some point, and it could just be a one- off. If your dog is vomiting repeatedly or shows other signs of illness, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Contact your local practice for advice if your dog is vomiting frequently or their condition is getting worse.
My dog is vomiting. What should I do?
- Call your veterinary practice for advice.
- Never give your dog human medicines or leftover pet medication.
- Try to keep your dog calm.
- Temporarily remove access to food (if advised by your vet).
- Offer small amounts of fresh water little and often, if they can keep it down.
- Make a note of how often the vomiting happens, what it looks like, and whether your dog has any other symptoms.
- If you think they have eaten something toxic, keep the packaging to show your vet.
- Record a video of a vomiting episode to show your vet.
If your dog is unwell, vomiting repeatedly, vomiting blood or they can’t keep water down, please call your vet straight away.
What are the signs of vomiting in dogs?
Signs of vomiting in dogs and puppies can include:
- Repeated retching.
- Bringing up food or fluid.
- Drooling.
- Lip licking.
- Gagging.
- Nausea.
Many cases of vomiting are mild and treatable, and your practice team can support you and help to get your dog feeling well again.
Vomiting in dogs and puppies can sometimes be confused with regurgitation, as they can appear quite similar.
It can be helpful to film a vomiting episode so that your vet can assess it and determine whether your dog is vomiting or regurgitating.
Vomiting and regurgitation have different causes and require different treatments. Your vet will be able to advise on a suitable treatment following assessment of your dog or puppy.
Why is my dog vomiting?
Occasional vomiting is common and not always serious, but it’s always a good idea to reach out to your vet if you’re worried about your dog.
Scavenging
Dietary indiscretions can cause dog vomiting. For example, your dog might have tucked into some food they shouldn’t have at home or when out on walks.
Dietary changes or reactions
Sudden food changes or reactions to certain foods can lead to dog vomiting. You should always transition your dog onto a new diet gradually.
Gastroenteritis or pancreatitis
Gastroenteritis (an upset stomach in dogs) is inflammation of the stomach and guts, while pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. Both of these conditions can lead to dog vomiting.
Parasites
Parasites such as roundworms and hookworms can lead to vomiting in dogs. Your vet can recommend a suitable parasite treatment and provide advice on year-round parasite prevention tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
Toxins
Your dog might vomit if they have ingested something harmful or toxic, for example, a food such as chocolate, onions or grapes, a cleaning product, antifreeze, medicines or a poisonous plant. Depending on what they have eaten, symptoms such as vomiting may take hours to a few days to develop.
If you are concerned your dog has ingested a toxin, contact your vet immediately for advice.
Foreign objects or blockages
Your dog might have swallowed a foreign object, such as clothing items or toys, which may have irritated their throat or cause a blockage within their stomach or intestines.
Symptoms of different causes of dog vomiting can overlap, so it’s always best to book an appointment with your vet to determine the cause.
If your dog has ingested something toxic or harmful, please contact your vet right away so that they can provide the right care.
When should I be concerned about dog vomiting?
Occasional dog vomiting is common and can resolve itself within a day or two, but your veterinary practice is ready to support you if your dog requires further care.
Contact your vet if your dog’s symptoms are getting worse, or you have a puppy, elderly dog, or dog with other health conditions.
You should also always contact your vet for advice in the following circumstances:
- Repeated vomiting.
- Not keeping water down.
- Vomiting blood.
- Black or bloody poo.
- Severe lethargy.
- Collapse.
- Reduced appetite and/or water intake.
- Tummy swelling or pain.
- Suspected poisoning.
While it might not be serious, it’s always best to check in with your veterinary team to put your mind at ease and help your dog get back to feeling their best.
How can my vet diagnose and treat dog vomiting?
When you arrive, your vet will review your dog’s history and ask a few quick questions, such as anything unusual your dog may have eaten, how often they have vomited, whether they have diarrhoea and any other symptoms.
Depending on their findings, they might recommend further tests such as blood tests, urine tests, faecal (poo) tests and diagnostic imaging such as an x-ray or ultrasound to rule out a blockage or other internal issue.
Treatment options might include fluids for dehydration, anti-sickness medication, pain -relief, diet advice, parasite treatment or hospital care, if needed.
The right approach will depend on your vet’s diagnosis and your dog’s individual presentation, and many dogs improve with the right treatment plan.
