Vomiting and Diarrhoea in Dogs: A Guide for Pet Owners
Vomiting and diarrhoea are prevalent concerns for dog owners, often stemming from our pets' curious eating habits. Whether these symptoms resolve on their own or require veterinary attention depends on your dog's overall condition and the nature of the symptoms.
Signs of Vomiting and Diarrhoea
Nausea Warning Signs: Watch for drooling, lip licking, and excessive swallowing before an episode.
Vomit Analysis: Take note of color, volume, frequency, and timing concerning the last meal.
Diarrhea Evaluation: Observe color, consistency, and signs of blood. Utilize our quick and free symptom checker for a more detailed assessment.
Causes of Vomiting and Diarrhea in Dogs
These symptoms occur when the stomach and/or intestines become irritated or inflamed. Causes include viruses, ingesting inappropriate substances, intestinal obstruction, sudden dietary changes, parasites, poisoning, parvovirus infection, pancreatitis, medication side effects, and various inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases.
What You Can Do at Home
Preventive Measures:
Avoid very salty, spicy, or fatty foods.
Introduce dietary changes gradually over approximately seven days.
Feed probiotic supplements before stressful events or after antibiotic courses.
Home Care Tips:
Do Not Starve Your Dog: Contrary to past practices, the gastrointestinal tract requires food to initiate healing.
Hydration: Ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water at all times.
Digestible Diet: Offer small, frequent portions of a highly digestible diet.
Supplements: Consider electrolytes and probiotics per manufacturer’s instructions.
Stool Sample Analysis: If your dog eats a raw diet or is a scavenger, regular stool sample analysis is recommended.
Vaccinations: We recommend vaccinating your puppies to reduce the risk of the deadly disease – Parvovirus. A booster vaccination is required annually or annually, following an initial course of 3 vaccinations.
Feeding Schedule:
Day 1: Divide the daily amount into 6-8 portions.
Day 2 and 3: Divide into 4-6 portions.
Day 4 and 5: Divide into 3-4 portions.
Gradually reintroduce the usual food once your dog has been normal for a couple of days.
Additional Care:
Keep up water intake.
Gradual reintroduction of normal activities after a few quieter days.
Treatment of Vomiting and Diarrhoea
Treatment focuses on fluid replacement in cases of severe dehydration, which can lead to shock and organ damage. Blood tests, x-rays, and ultrasounds may be necessary to identify the cause. Symptomatic treatment includes a bland diet, anti-nausea medication, antacids, pain relief, and probiotics. Antibiotics are rarely used unless signs of serious bacterial infection are present.
When to Consult Your Physical Veterinarian
Seek professional advice if:
There's blood in vomit or stools.
Your dog is increasingly lethargic, anorexic, or unwilling to drink.
Vomiting persists for 3-4 days despite home treatment.
Your dog cannot retain water or is dehydrated.
A foreign body may have been swallowed, causing a potential obstruction.
Abdominal pain or a swollen abdomen is observed.
Recurrent episodes of vomiting and/or diarrhea occur.
Still concerned?
If you find yourself worried about your pet, our veterinary telemedicine services at Vetli are here for you. Covered by some pet insurance policies, our experienced veterinarians offer professional and compassionate advice, treatment, and if needed, a referral to your local vet. Accessible 365 days a year, we prioritise your pet's health and well-being.
Book an appointment here.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kirra Balmanno