As a breeder, one of the most common questions I get asked is, “Why is my dog throwing up?” There are many potential reasons for this, and vomiting can be a sign of both small or serious health issues.
First, it’s important to understand that vomiting is a common and normal process for dogs. It’s a way for their body to get rid of things that are causing them digestive distress or that they shouldn’t have eaten in the first place. But, persistent or excessive vomiting can be a sign of a more serious problem, and it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian if you’re concerned about your dog’s vomiting.
Vomiting or Regurgitation?
It’s important to distinguish between the two, vomiting is an involuntary response, it involves the forceful expulsion of the contents of the stomach, regurgitation usually occurs right after eating or drinking and comes from an inability to swallow properly, it will appear fairly effortless and your dog will show no other signs of distress.
Cause for Concern?
One of the most common causes of vomiting in dogs is dietary indiscretion. This means that your dog has eaten something they shouldn’t have, such as moldy food, garbage, or inedible items like socks or toys. If the vomiting is accompanied by other symptoms like diarrhea, loss of appetite, or lethargy you may want to consult with your vet.
Color of Vomit?
The color of your dog’s vomit can also provide clues about the underlying cause. Clear or yellow vomit is usually not a cause for concern and may be caused by gastric reflux or ingestion of small amounts of grass or other indigestible material. Green or brown vomit may indicate the presence of bile and could be a sign of an underlying digestive issue. Blood in vomit can be a serious concern and should be addressed by a vet as soon as possible.
Worms
Worms in vomit can also be a cause for concern. If you see worms in your dog’s vomit, it’s important to consult a vet as soon as possible, as worms can be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Grass in Vomit
Grass in vomit is another common concern for dog owners. It’s normal for dogs to eat grass on occasion, and it’s usually not a cause for concern as long as they are not eating large amounts of it regularly. If your dog is vomiting grass or seems to be eating an excessive amount of grass, it’s a good idea to consult a vet to rule out any underlying health issues.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Another common cause of vomiting in dogs is gastrointestinal issues. This can include things like inflammatory bowel disease, parasites, or infections. These types of problems can cause chronic vomiting and may require more in-depth treatment from your veterinarian.
Underlying Health Issues
Vomiting can also be a sign of other underlying health issues, such as kidney disease, liver disease, or pancreatitis. These types of problems may require more specialized treatment and monitoring, and it’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action.
Blockages
One important thing to keep in mind is that vomiting can also be a sign of a more serious problem, such as an intestinal blockage or foreign body. If your dog is vomiting repeatedly and unable to keep anything down, or if you notice other concerning symptoms like abdominal pain or difficulty breathing, it’s important to seek emergency veterinary care.
Emergency Situations
Emergencies that may require immediate medical attention include:
- Vomiting blood
- Vomiting accompanied by severe abdominal pain
- Vomiting accompanied by difficulty breathing
- Vomiting accompanied by lethargy or weakness
- Vomiting in puppies or older dogs
Prevention
To prevent some cases of dog vomiting, it’s important to feed your dog a high-quality diet, avoid giving them inappropriate foods, and keep them from eating garbage or other potentially harmful substances. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on your dog’s water intake, as dehydration can contribute to vomiting.
What are common causes of my dog throwing up?
Common causes include eating too quickly, consuming indigestible objects, dietary changes, food allergies, and gastrointestinal issues. Occasional vomiting may not be a cause for concern, but frequent or chronic vomiting requires veterinary attention.
Could my dog be throwing up due to a serious health issue?
Yes, serious health issues like pancreatitis, kidney or liver disease, or gastrointestinal blockages can cause vomiting. If your dog is frequently vomiting or displaying other concerning symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Can stress or anxiety cause my dog to throw up?
Stress and anxiety can indeed cause gastrointestinal disturbances in dogs, including vomiting. If your dog has been exposed to a recent stressor, consider providing a calm environment and monitoring their behavior.
How can I help prevent my dog from throwing up?
Preventative measures include feeding smaller, more frequent meals, providing a consistent diet, slowing down fast eaters with a puzzle feeder, and avoiding giving your dog table scraps or new foods without proper introduction.
When should I take my dog to the vet for vomiting?
Seek veterinary attention if your dog is vomiting frequently, appears lethargic, experiences diarrhea, has bloody vomit or feces, is in pain, or if their condition worsens. These symptoms could indicate a serious health issue requiring prompt medical care.
