Every dog vomits – probably a lot more often than we do. It is a natural method of removing any foreign bodies or debris that they may have ingested, something we know our dogs are all too eager to do on a regular basis. So, for the most part, you can ignore vomiting, but every now and then it can be a symptom of something much worse.

Warning Signs

Most often, if vomiting is a serious health issue, it is accompanied by other symptoms including diarrhea, lethargy, behavioural problems and more. Additionally, if your dog vomits multiple times, it can be a sign of something worse. There are two forms of vomiting you need to be wary of.

If your dog vomits multiple times suddenly – acute vomiting – it could be a medical emergency and should be treated immediately. On the other hand, if your dog vomits every week or so like clockwork, it could be a chronic issue related to an allergy or illness.

Who Has Vomiting Problems

Vomiting does not relate to any one dog breed. Instead it relates to the specific health problems a dog may have. Acute vomiting can be caused by a sudden change in diet or the ingestion of something your dog’s body doesn’t know how to digest. It can also result from quick ingestion of dry food. To avoid these issues, feed your dog in smaller meals more frequently and don’t give them any table scraps.

Parasites and worms can also cause vomiting in your dog. Roundworms are particularly common causes of vomiting, along with Giardia, and Coccidia, which will sometimes show in the feces or vomit.
If your dog vomits repeatedly suddenly, it could mean their digestive tract is blocked by a foreign object or they ingested a poison. See a vet immediately if this is the case. Obstructions will often be accompanied by bloating and a complete lack of movement as well.

Avoiding Vomiting

There is no direct way to avoid vomiting. Don’t give your dog table scraps, don’t feed them large meals if they eat too fast, and don’t let them play with anything that they could easily ingest if they get too carried away. And, as always, see a vet immediately if your dog exhibits any signs of additional illness or vomits more than once successively.