An occasional episode of vomiting is common in dogs and often settles on its own, but repeated vomiting can signal something more serious.
⚕️ This page is general educational information, not veterinary advice or a diagnosis. If you are worried about your pet, contact a qualified veterinarian.
Common causes
Eating something unusual, spoiled food or garbage
Eating too fast or a sudden diet change
Stomach or intestinal infections, including parasites
Swallowed objects (toys, socks, corn cobs) causing a blockage
Toxins or poisonous foods such as grapes, chocolate or xylitol
Pancreatitis, kidney or liver disease
Motion sickness or stress
What you can do at home
Note how many times your dog vomited, what it looked like and when it began
Keep fresh water available in small amounts
Ask your vet before withholding food — puppies, small breeds, seniors and diabetic dogs should not fast without advice
Never give human medicines unless a vet tells you to
🚨 Contact an emergency vet now if…
Repeated vomiting or vomiting that does not stop
Blood in the vomit or something that looks like coffee grounds
Unproductive retching with a swollen, tight belly (possible bloat — an emergency)
Known or suspected ingestion of a toxin or foreign object
Extreme lethargy, weakness, pale gums or unable to keep water down
Vomiting in a young puppy or elderly dog
Book a vet visit soon if…
Vomiting lasting more than 24 hours
Repeated episodes over several days or weeks
Weight loss, loss of appetite or diarrhea at the same time
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my dog vomiting yellow foam?
Yellow or white foam is often stomach fluid or bile from an empty stomach, sometimes in the early morning. If it happens often or with other symptoms, see a vet.
Should I feed my dog after vomiting?
Ask your vet. Many vets suggest a short rest for the stomach followed by small bland meals for healthy adult dogs, but this isn't right for every dog.
⚕️ This page is general educational information, not veterinary advice or a diagnosis. If you are worried about your pet, contact a qualified veterinarian.