Dog Not Eating But Throwing Up [9 Reasons & Tips]

We know how worrisome it can be when our furry friends aren’t feeling well.

One common issue that many dogs experience is refusing to eat and vomiting.

As a responsible pet owner, it’s essential to be able to recognize the signs and take appropriate action.

In this short blog post, we’ll discuss some possible reasons why your dog might not be eating and throwing up and some practical steps you can take to help your pet feel better.

Why Is My Dog Not Eating But Throwing Up

It’s common for dogs to lose their appetite due to a variety of reasons, such as illness or stress.

Throwing up is often a symptom of an underlying issue, which may include poisoning, infection, blockage, or other medical conditions.

If you notice your dog not eating and throwing up, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

It could also be a sign of a more serious illness, such as an infection, kidney disease, or lung disease.

If your dog is not eating and is vomiting, having diarrhea, or both, it is recommended to contact your veterinarian within 8–12 hours.

Reasons For Your Dog Not Eating But Throwing Up

The following are some potential reasons why your dog is not eating but throwing up:

1. Obstruction in their digestive system

An obstruction in your dog’s digestive system may result from them ingesting a toy or bone that they shouldn’t have and may result in not eating but throwing up.

This can result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite in addition to more severe ones like stomach pain, sluggishness, or breathing problems.

Consult a veterinarian right away if you think your dog may have consumed something that could block his breathing.

2. Ingesting poisonous substances

Poisonous items, such as plants, home cleansers, or drugs, can be inadvertently consumed by dogs.

Poisoning signs may include throwing up, nausea, diarrhea, weakness, convulsions, or trouble breathing.

Consult a veterinarian right away if you think your dog may have consumed something poisonous.

3. Change in diet

Your dog might not want to eat it if you recently changed its diet and may leading throwing up regularly.

Since dogs are creatures of habit, abrupt dietary changes may cause stomach issues.

To avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach, it’s crucial to introduce the new food gradually over a period of days while gradually increasing the serving size.

4. Food allergies

Certain food kinds can cause allergies in dogs which can lead to your dog throwing up.

Your dog may refuse to eat it and/or may vomit if they are allergic to a certain food because you kept forcing the food on them.

Beef, poultry, wheat, and dairy products are typical examples of food that can cause food allergies in dogs.

Ask your veterinarian about an elimination diet to identify the allergen if you think your dog may have a food allergy.

5. Stress and anxiety

Dogs are susceptible to stress and anxiety, which can make them refuse food and make them throw up.

Your dog may experience stress and anxiety if you notice changes in its habit or behavior, such as a transfer to a new house, the arrival of a new family member, or separation anxiety.

In these situations, it’s crucial to give your dog a secure and cozy environment and, if required, seek the advice of a veterinarian.

6. Illness or infection

Dogs may experience nausea and vomiting due to a variety of ailments or infections.

Intestinal infections, pancreatitis, liver, kidney, and cancer are a few prevalent instances.

You should take your dog to the vet right away if they are also displaying additional symptoms like lethargy, diarrhea, or fever.

7. Dental problems

Dogs who have dental problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or damaged teeth, may have trouble eating and may even vomit.

Take your dog to the vet for an examination and potential teeth cleaning or extraction if you find that they drool excessively, have foul breath, or have trouble chewing.

8. Parasites

Dogs who have internal parasites like roundworms, tapeworms, or hookworms may vomit, have diarrhea, and eventually lose their appetite.

These parasites can be spread by tainted food, drink, or soil, dogs get worms from different places.

Good hygiene habits and routine deworming can help prevent these diseases.

Learn more about symptoms of worms in dogs and how long after deworming a dog the worm will be gone.

9. Side effects of Medications

As a side effect, some drugs may produce nausea and vomiting in dogs.

It’s vital to ask your veterinarian about any possible side effects if your dog is currently receiving medication.

What to do when your dog refuses food and vomits

Here are some common things you can do to help your dog feel better:

1. Check your dog’s teeth: If your dog is refusing to eat, it may be because they are experiencing pain or discomfort in their mouth. Check your dog’s teeth and gums for signs of infection or damage.
2. Change their diet: Sometimes, dogs may not like the food you are feeding them, or they may have developed an aversion to it. Consider changing to a different brand or type of food.
3. Avoid giving human food: Dogs may vomit if you give them human food, particularly if it is fatty or spicy. Stick to their regular dog food.
4. Keep your dog hydrated: Make sure your dog has access to plenty of water, particularly if they are vomiting.
5. Monitor their symptoms: Keep an eye on your dog’s symptoms, including their appetite, water intake, and frequency of vomiting. This information can be useful to your veterinarian.
6. Try home remedies: You can try feeding your dog homemade chicken soup and boiled rice or giving them a small, bland meal.
7. Contact your veterinarian: If your dog refuses food and vomits for more than 24 hours or if they show signs of lethargy, dehydration, or weakness, it is essential to call your veterinarian immediately.
8. Follow the vet’s instructions: If you take your dog to the vet, follow their instructions and recommendations, including medication and a special diet.
9. Observe appropriate hygiene: Always ensure to clean any vomit and disinfect the area to prevent the spread of infections.

Learn more about why your dog might be guarding food but not eating.

Prevention tips for dogs that refuse food and vomit

Here are some prevention tips for dogs that refuse food and vomit:

1. Provide adequate and balanced nutrition: Provide a well-balanced and nutritious diet that meets your dog’s specific size, breed, and age requirements. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best food and feeding schedule for your dog.
2. Provide fresh water: Make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water at all times.
3. Regular exercise: Exercise your dog regularly to help maintain a healthy weight, promote healthy digestion, and reduce stress.
4. Regular veterinary check-ups: Regular check-ups can help detect health issues early and prevent them from worsening.
5. Maintain proper hygiene: Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, can help maintain your dog’s skin and coat health.
6. Dental care: Regular teeth brushing and/or veterinary dental cleanings can help prevent periodontal disease and dental problems.
7. Preventative care: Follow recommended vaccination and deworming schedules to prevent the incidence of communicable diseases.
8. Avoid Overfeeding: Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which is a common cause of health problems.
9. Avoid giving table scraps or human food: Feeding dogs table scraps or human food can lead to obesity, digestive issues, and other health problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my dog is throwing up and not eating?

If your dog is throwing up and not eating, it is important to take them to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.

It could be a sign of a serious medical condition or just a temporary issue like an upset stomach.

Can I give my dog human medicine for vomiting and loss of appetite?

No, you should never give your dog human medicine without consulting a veterinarian first.

Some human medications can be toxic to dogs, and the dosage and effects can be different in dogs than in humans.

What should I feed my dog if they are not eating but not vomiting?

If your dog is not vomiting but still not eating, you can try offering them a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken and white rice.

This can be easier on their stomach and may help stimulate their appetite.

How long can a dog go without eating before it becomes a problem?

Generally, dogs can go without food for a day or two without any major problems.

However, if your dog is refusing food for more than a day or if they are showing other symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, it is important to consult a veterinarian.

Can stress cause a dog to not eat and throw up?

Yes, stress can be a cause of not eating and vomiting in dogs.

If you have recently moved, changed your dog’s routine, or if there are other sources of stress in your dog’s life, it may be contributing to these symptoms.

Are there any home remedies I can try to help my dog’s nausea and loss of appetite?

Some possible home remedies for nausea and loss of appetite in dogs include fasting for a short period, offering canned pumpkin or white rice, or adding ginger to their diet.

However, it is important to consult a veterinarian before trying any home remedies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your dog.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if your dog is not eating but throwing up, it could be due to a variety of reasons such as illness, stress, or a change in diet.

It is important to monitor your dog’s behavior and seek veterinary care if necessary.

Remember to always provide your furry friend with a balanced and nutritious diet, plenty of water, and lots of love and attention.

By following these tips, you can help ensure your dog’s health and happiness for years to come.