Seeing your dog vomit or have diarrhea can be very worrying. These symptoms can happen for many reasons, from eating something they shouldn’t have to more serious health problems. In this article, we will help you understand what to do if your dog is vomiting and has diarrhea, when it’s and emergency, and how to care for your dog at home.
We will also share advice from expert sources like Dr. Stanley Marks in his work on canine diarrhea. By understanding these symptoms and taking the right steps, you can help your dog feel better and stay healthy.
So, My Dog is Vomiting and Having Diarrhea: What Should I Do?
If your dog is vomiting and having diarrhea with severe symptoms like blood in the stool, being very tired, or if it starts suddenly, you need to get them to a vet right away. This is especially true for puppies because they can get worse very quickly and they’re vulnerable to deadly diseases like parvo.
Mild Cases: What You Can Do at Home
If your dog’s symptoms are mild and they seem normal otherwise (no fever or extreme tiredness), you can try some simple steps at home:
- Don’t give your dog any food for a few hours. This helps their stomach and intestines rest. Make sure they still have access to water.
- After a few hours, you can start feeding them a bland diet like boiled chicken and white rice. This can help calm their stomach. It’s always best to check with your vet first to make sure this is the right approach for your dog.
What Medicine Can I Give My Dog for Vomiting and Diarrhea?
When your dog is vomiting or has diarrhea, it’s important to consult a veterinarian before giving any medication. A vet can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the right treatment.
Always talk to your vet before giving your dog any medication. They can provide a proper diagnosis and prescribe the right medication based on the cause of the symptoms. Self-medicating your dog without veterinary guidance can sometimes make the problem worse.
Possible Medications from a Vet
Depending on the diagnosis, your vet might prescribe:
- Anti-Parasite Medication: If parasites are the cause, your vet will prescribe medicine to eliminate them.
- Antibiotics: For bacterial infections, your vet may recommend antibiotics to clear the infection.
- Anti-Emetics: These medications help control nausea and vomiting.
- Anti-Diarrheals: These can help firm up your dog’s stool and reduce diarrhea.
Avoid Most Over-the-Counter Medications Without A Vet
Do not give your dog over-the-counter medications without consulting your vet. Human medications can be harmful or even toxic to dogs. Always get advice from your veterinarian to ensure your dog receives safe and effective treatment.
Home Remedy For A Dog That Has Vomiting and Diarrhea
If you can’t get to the vet right away or your dog’s symptoms are not too bad, here’s what you can do:
- Sometimes, your vet might give you medicine to stop vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases you can speak to your vet about using over-the-counter options like flavorless Pepto Bismol and Imodium AD. Here’s the typical dosage:
- Pepto Bismol: The typical dosage is 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight, given every 6-8 hours.
- Imodium AD: The typical dosage is 1 mg per 20 pounds of body weight, given every 8 hours.
- Keep your dog hydrated. Offer them water or mix some canine electrolyte powder with water. If they won’t drink, you can use a syringe to give them fluids gently.
- Keep an eye on your dog. If they don’t get better or if they get worse, go to the vet as soon as possible.
Managing Serious Cases
For serious issues, like parvovirus, it’s important to act quickly and stay dedicated. Your vet might give you special medications and fluids to help your dog recover. The key is to catch it early and provide consistent care.
Remember, while you can help your dog at home for mild cases, severe symptoms need immediate vet care to keep your dog safe and healthy.
When Should I Be Concerned About My Dog’s Vomiting and Diarrhea?
There are certain signs that indicate your dog needs immediate veterinary attention. If you notice any of the following, contact your vet right away:
Blood in Vomit or Stool
This can be a sign of a serious issue like gastrointestinal bleeding. If your dog has bloody vomit or stool, seek veterinary care immediately. (Include long-tail keyword: “dog vomiting and diarrhea bloody stool”)
Black, Tarry Stool
This type of stool, also known as melena, can indicate internal bleeding in the stomach or small intestines.
Severe Abdominal Pain
If your dog is whining or yelping when their stomach is touched, they could be in severe pain, which needs urgent veterinary evaluation.
Lethargy or Weakness
If your dog is unusually tired or weak, it could be a sign that they are not feeling well and need to see a vet.
Fever
A high temperature can indicate an infection or other serious health problem.
Loss of Appetite for More Than 24 Hours
If your dog refuses to eat for more than a day, it’s a sign that something might be wrong.
Excessive Vomiting or Diarrhea
If your dog is vomiting or having diarrhea excessively, they are at risk of dehydration. This is especially dangerous and requires immediate attention. Pay attention to when dogs vomit has any blood in it, or if it is yellow. Yellow means they are vomiting up bile and white foam means their stomach is empty. These are both signs of something more serious than simply overeating.
If your dog shows any of these concerning signs, it is crucial to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Early intervention can help prevent more serious complications and ensure your dog gets the care they need.
My Dog is Vomiting and Having Diarrhea, But Acting Normal?
If your dog is vomiting and having diarrhea but seems to be acting normal, it can still be a cause for concern. Just because your dog seems okay, it doesn’t mean there aren’t underlying issues.
Acting Normal Can Be Misleading
Sometimes, dogs might appear to be fine but still have health problems. They might still play, eat, and act happy, but there could be something serious going on inside their bodies.
See a Vet to Be Sure
It’s always a good idea to consult a veterinarian to get a proper diagnosis. A vet can help rule out any serious causes and give you peace of mind.
Possible Causes
There are a few reasons why a seemingly healthy dog might vomit or have diarrhea:
- Dietary Indiscretion: Your dog might have eaten something they shouldn’t have, like trash or table scraps. Changing their diet too quickly to a new food can also cause vomiting and diarrhea.
- Parasites: Intestinal worms or other parasites can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
- Food Allergies or Sensitivities: Some dogs might react to certain foods in their diet.
Even if your dog seems fine, it’s important to get them checked out to ensure there are no hidden issues. Your vet can help identify the cause and recommend the best treatment.
Causes of Dog Vomiting and Diarrhea
There are many reasons why your dog might be vomiting or have diarrhea. Here are some common causes:
| Cause | Explanation | Other Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Dietary Indiscretion | Eating something they shouldn’t, like trash or spoiled food. | Stomach pain, lack of appetite, gas. |
| Viral or Bacterial Infections | Serious infections like parvovirus or distemper. | Fever, lethargy, loss of appetite. |
| Parasites | Intestinal worms or protozoa like giardia. | Weight loss, scooting, bloated stomach. |
| Food Allergies or Sensitivities | Reaction to certain foods. | Itching, ear infections, skin problems. |
| Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) | Chronic inflammation of the intestines. | Weight loss, frequent diarrhea, tiredness. |
| Pancreatitis | Inflammation of the pancreas. | Stomach pain, fever, lack of energy. |
| Foreign Object Ingestion | Swallowing something they shouldn’t, causing a blockage. | Abdominal pain, constipation, restlessness. |
| Certain Medications | Some drugs can upset the stomach. | Loss of appetite, lethargy. |
| Motion Sickness | Getting sick during car rides. | Drooling, whining, reluctance to travel. |
Other Causes
| Cause | Explanation | Other Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Extraintestinal Disorders | Issues like liver or kidney disease. | Weight loss, increased thirst, jaundice. |
| Functional Ileus/Mechanical Obstruction | Blockages or issues with how the intestines move. | Severe pain, inability to pass stool, bloating. |
| Neoplastic Causes | Cancerous growths. | Weight loss, lumps or masses, weakness. |
| Drugs and Toxins | Certain medications like ibuprofen and toxic substances. | Vomiting, seizures, drooling. |
Puppy Vomiting and Diarrhea
Puppies are more vulnerable to infections like parvovirus and distemper, which can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea. These conditions are serious and require immediate veterinary attention. Puppies also have weaker immune systems, making them more susceptible to other infections and parasites.
Senior Dog Vomiting and Diarrhea
Senior dogs can experience vomiting and diarrhea due to age-related health issues such as kidney disease, liver disease, and cancer. These conditions can weaken their overall health and make them more prone to digestive problems.
Regular vet check-ups are important for early detection and management of these issues.
Regular Deworming
Regular deworming is essential to prevent parasite-related issues in dogs of all ages. Parasites like intestinal worms can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other health problems. Keeping your dog on a regular deworming schedule can help maintain their digestive health and overall well-being.
Conclusion
If your dog is experiencing persistent vomiting and diarrhea, always consult a veterinarian. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are key to ensuring your dog’s health and recovery. Your vet can provide the best guidance and care for any health concerns, helping your dog get back to their happy, healthy self.
- Ellis, A.E., Brown, C.A. and Miller, D.L., 2010. Diagnostic exercise: chronic vomiting in a dog. Veterinary Pathology, 47(5), pp.991-993.
- Volkmann, M., Steiner, J.M., Fosgate, G.T., Zentek, J., Hartmann, S. and Kohn, B., 2017. Chronic diarrhea in dogs–retrospective study in 136 cases. Journal of veterinary internal medicine, 31(4), pp.1043-1055.
- Marks, S.L., 2013. Diarrhea. Canine and feline gastroenterology, p.99.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.