Causes of vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs

A dog usually suffers at least once in its life from vomiting and/or diarrhoea. There are a number of different causes, some of which are harmless and others that need to be addressed. However, it is important to point out that vomiting and/or diarrhoea is never good if it goes on for a long time, and therefore your dog needs to be seen by a vet in many cases.

Common causes of vomiting and diarrhoea

• The dog has eaten something inappropriate, which the body then expels

• The dog has contracted a virus similar to a human stomach bug

• The dog may have contracted an intestinal parasite

• The dog may have been poisoned

• The dog has had side effects from medication

• The dog's stomach is reacting to a sudden change in food

• The dog is stressed, read about stress in dogs here.

Treatment for vomiting and diarrhoea

If an adult dog suffers from vomiting and diarrhoea, the most important thing is to allow the gastrointestinal tract to recover, and to provide supportive treatment if necessary. If your dog seems to be doing well in general, apart from the occasional bout of vomiting and/or diarrhoea, you can treat your dog at home with a bland diet.

Puppies with vomiting and diarrhoea

However, if you have a puppy with vomiting and/or diarrhoea, you need to remember that puppies are much more sensitive to this than large dogs are. Puppies can quickly become very poorly if they become dehydrated or have low blood sugar. Do not hesitate to consult a vet for advice if your puppy has vomiting or diarrhoea. If it is obvious that the puppy is unwell, go to the vet!