Dogs can vomit for all sorts of reasons, from scarfing down something they shouldn’t to serious underlying health issues. Unlike in humans, a dog vomiting can be a sign of something urgent. So, when is it okay to monitor at home, and when should you get your vet involved?
When Vomiting Is an Emergency
Contact a veterinarian if your dog:
- Vomits more than 2–3 times in 24 hours
- Has blood in the vomit
- Shows signs like lethargy, fever, severe diarrhea, dehydration, loss of appetite, or depression
The more frequently a dog vomits, the more serious the situation could be.
What Causes Vomiting?
The cause often depends on your dog’s age:
- Puppies tend to vomit after eating things they shouldn’t—like socks or sticks—or due to infections such as Parvo virus (especially if unvaccinated) or intestinal parasites.
- Senior dogs are more prone to vomiting from metabolic conditions like kidney or liver disease, diabetes, pancreatitis, or even cancer.
- All dogs, regardless of age, can vomit due to:
- Toxins or spoiled food
- Eating poisonous or unusual foods (e.g., chocolate, grease)
- Infections (viral or bacterial)
- Intestinal blockage
- Trauma or stress
Why a Veterinary Exam Matters
Only a vet can positively determine what’s causing the vomiting. During a visit, they may:
- Check hydration and perform a physical exam
- Run blood tests, X-rays, fecal tests, Parvo screenings, or ultrasounds
- Recommend treatment based on the diagnosis
What You Can Do at Home (For Mild Vomiting)
If your dog is otherwise acting normal and vomits fewer than 3 times in 24 hours:
- Withhold food for 12–24 hours, but keep water available
- Reintroduce food slowly using a bland diet: plain white rice, boiled chicken, or low-fat cottage cheese
- Veterinary prescription diets are also a great option for sensitive stomachs
If your dog improves and keeps food down, you may not need further care. In the event symptoms return or worsen, call your vet.
Treatment for More Serious Cases
For ongoing or severe vomiting, treatment could include:
- IV fluids to address dehydration
- Anti-nausea medications
- Surgery for intestinal obstructions
- Medications or therapies to treat infections, parasites, or chronic illness
How to Prevent Vomiting
- For puppies: Keep vaccinations and deworming up to date. Puppy-proof your home to avoid chewed-up toys or swallowed socks.
- For all dogs:
- Stick to high-quality, consistent diets
- Avoid feeding table scraps or rich foods
- Schedule regular checkups with your vet to catch health issues early
Final Thoughts
Vomiting in dogs isn’t always an emergency, but it should never be ignored. Whether it’s a simple dietary mishap or a sign of something more serious, early attention can make all the difference. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always safer to consult your veterinarian, especially with the convenience of telehealth.
Your dog can’t tell you what’s wrong, but with a vet’s insight, you can get the answers you need and peace of mind, fast.
