Why Is My Dog Vomiting?

Why is my dog vomiting?

As a Kiwi vet, this is one of the most common questions I hear. Vomiting can be caused by anything from a simple tummy upset to something more serious. The key is knowing what is normal, what is not, and when your dog needs a checkup.

Common reasons dogs vomit

A quick vomit now and then is fairly normal, especially if your dog has hoovered up something odd. Here are the usual culprits:
Food scavenging. Old sausages at the park, mystery scraps, or raid-the-bin missions often end in trouble.
Sudden diet changes. Switching foods too quickly can upset a sensitive stomach.
Eating too fast. Some dogs inhale meals and bring them straight back up.
Car sickness. Younger dogs in particular can spew on windy roads.
Mild infections. Bugs and minor tummy upsets can cause short-term vomiting.

When vomiting is a red flag

Some situations need prompt vet attention:
Repeated vomiting over a few hours.
Vomiting paired with diarrhoea, lethargy, or shaking.
Blood in the vomit.
Your dog cannot keep water down.
A swollen or painful belly.
Puppies, elderly dogs, or dogs with health issues vomiting even once.
These signs can point to more serious issues like pancreatitis, blockages, poisoning, or parvovirus. Early treatment makes a big difference.

What you can do at home

If your dog is bright and only vomits once or twice:
Hold off food for 8 to 12 hours.
Offer small sips of water often.
After the break, start a bland diet like boiled chicken and rice in tiny portions.
If things improve, slowly transition back to normal food over a couple of days.
If vomiting continues, or your dog seems off, they need a vet check.

Can parasites cause vomiting?

Yes, they can. Some intestinal worms and even heavy flea loads can upset the gut enough to trigger vomiting. Keeping your dog on a regular flea, tick, and worm treatment helps prevent these issues and keeps their digestive system steady.

When to see your vet

Trust your gut. If your dog looks unwell, is vomiting repeatedly, or you are simply not sure, give your vet a ring. Prompt advice can save a lot of worry and help catch serious problems early.

Final thoughts

Most vomiting in dogs is mild, but some cases are not. Knowing the difference is the hardest part, and you are never overreacting by asking for help. Keeping up with parasite prevention, feeding good quality food, and avoiding sudden diet changes can all reduce the risk of tummy trouble.