Vomiting once might just mean your pup ate grass or dug through trash. But when dogs throw up, it’s scary for sure. If it happens again, could point to a bigger health problem lurking. A single bout? Probably nothing wild - maybe they gobbled something weird. Still, don’t brush off repeated sickness without checking.

Figuring out if you can handle things at home or need emergency vet help really matters. Check out Pawssum’s tips to get through this tricky moment without panic.

Is It Vomiting or Regurgitation?

Knowing what sets vomiting apart from regurgitation can guide your next move.

Vomiting isn't passive - it involves effort. Dogs often act uneasy before it happens - drooling more, smacking lips, pacing around. Then comes heaving, along with strong belly movements pushing out stomach contents. What comes up might be partly broken-down meals or liquid stuff. Bile can show up too, giving it a greenish-yellow tint.

Spitting up food? It’s often automatic - happens right after meals without straining. No force involved, just comes back up. What shows up looks like whole chunks, still in a line. Not vomit, more like food sliding out.

Vomiting usually points to gut issues, so watch it carefully - though nausea matters too.

1. When To Call the Vet IMMEDIATELY (Red Flags)

Vomiting can sometimes be deadly. When your dog shows signs like these, get in touch with your vet right away - or call a Pawssum mobile emergency vet without delay

Vomiting now and then over half an hour, sometimes nonstop past a day.

Blood when throwing up - could be fresh red stuff, or something darker that looks like coffee grains.

Heaving nonstop but barely bringing anything up - maybe even nothing at all - especially when the belly seems swollen. Could point to GDV, also called bloat, a condition that’s deadly serious and needs fast help.

Vomiting along with serious symptoms:

Feeling extremely tired or passing out without warning.

Bad stomach ache - might scream, stretch out, or avoid contact.

Cant stay upright or move around properly.

Eating something harmful - say, chocolate, mouse poison, grapes, or xylitol. Check out our piece about the top 3 dog food toxins for further details.

2. Management for a Single Episode (Wait and Watch)

If your adult dog’s in good health but tosses their dinner just once, acts perky otherwise, yet doesn’t show extra warning signs, you might handle it at home - just stay sharp and watch closely.

The 6-12 Hour Fast

Stop feeding: Remove every bit of food for half a day so your pup’s belly can calm down.

Keep giving water - going totally dry raises big risks. Still, avoid letting your pup chug a full bowl fast; it might bring back vomit. Try tiny amounts of clean water instead, spaced out every now and then. Wait between each round so things stay steady.

Re-introducing a Bland Diet

If your dog hasn't thrown up in half a day or so, start easing meals back in - just a little at first.

Begin with mild food: Cook basic skinless, boneless chicken chunks without spices or oil - boil them till soft. Mix in cooked white rice using one part chicken to three parts rice; keep it plain. Use no herbs, salt, butter, or extras during prep. This combo helps settle digestion gently after fasting.

Tiny bits: Give just a little at first - like 1 tsp for a small pup or 1 tbsp if it’s big. Use that much to begin.

Pause and watch - give it 15 to 30 minutes. When they hold it in, try giving the same portion once more. But if throwing up happens anytime, skip further meals then reach out to your vet.

If your pup handles tiny servings without trouble after a few hours, try giving a bit more plain food - just feed little amounts every four to six hours during the next day or two.

If your pup’s keeping the simple meals down without tossing up for two to three days, start blending in their usual grub bit by bit - over several days - till they’re fully back on what they normally eat.

3. When to Book a Non-Emergency Vet Visit

Still, once throwing up ends, get a vet’s opinion when spotting:

Vomiting sticks around past one or two days - happens now and then, still won't quit.

Loose stools start up - lasting beyond a couple of days or so.

Not feeling hungry past a day.

Lethargy means you feel drained. Or maybe you’ve got no get-up-and-go.

Sticky gums or sunken eyes might mean dehydration.

If you are concerned but your dog's situation is not a critical emergency, you can book an at-home consultation with a Pawssum mobile vet for a stress-free examination in the comfort of your own home.

Final Takeaway

If your dog tosses once, it’s usually no big deal - but keep an eye out. Watch how they act, skip food for a bit then ease in light meals when things seem calm. Or better yet, call someone who knows what they’re doing if you spot anything weird. We care about your pup like our own.

Worried about your pet feeling unwell? Get a vet who comes to you.

Author

Dr Sarah B BVSc
Mobile Veterinarian (Australia)

Written from real-world experience supporting Australian families.

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Disclaimer: Medical content scope and intent
This article provides general education only.
Content explains possible contributors to lethargy and observation guidance.
Diagnosis and treatment require veterinary assessment.