All puppies will encounter episodes of vomiting or diarrhea at some point, and usually, it's not a sign of a serious problem. However, it's important not to ignore these symptoms, especially if there's blood or mucus or if they occur frequently.
Discover more about the common causes of vomiting and diarrhea in puppies and understand when to consult your veterinarian to rule out severe conditions.
Causes Of Diarrhea And Vomiting In Puppies
There are numerous reasons why your puppy might vomit or have diarrhea, ranging from minor to serious health issues. Sometimes, these conditions can even cause blood in the vomit or diarrhea.
Often, it's challenging to determine the cause just by observing the vomit or diarrhea. The best way to diagnose the issue is by visiting a veterinarian to ensure it's not severe. Multiple underlying causes are often identified.
Here are some common causes of vomiting and diarrhea in puppies:
Viruses
Several viruses, such as canine parvovirus, coronavirus, canine distemper virus, and canine herpesvirus, can upset a puppy's stomach. Viral infections are usually more severe in young puppies. Vaccinations can protect against many common viruses, so consult your vet to establish an appropriate vaccination schedule for your puppy.
Bacteria
A puppy's digestive tract naturally contains many bacteria strains that are usually harmless. However, certain strains can cause gastrointestinal upset if they multiply too quickly or if the puppy contracts a bacterial infection. Common bacteria include E. coli and Clostridial bacteria. Factors like stress, dietary changes, viral infections, or intestinal parasites can trigger bacterial overgrowth. Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Yersinia enterocolitica infections can cause vomiting and diarrhea and are zoonotic, meaning they can spread to humans. Always wash your hands after handling a sick puppy.
Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites are another frequent cause of vomiting and diarrhea in puppies. Even if worms aren't visible, puppies can still have parasites. The Companion Animal Parasite Council recommends testing puppies for intestinal parasites at least four times in their first year. Worms such as hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and tapeworms, as well as microscopic parasites like giardia and coccidia, can lead to gastrointestinal issues.
Stress
Puppyhood is stressful, and stress can lead to vomiting and diarrhea. Stress can also weaken the immune system, making puppies more susceptible to infections. Common stressors include:
- Separation from their mother and siblings.
- Moving to a new home.
- Exposure to new environments.
- Learning new rules.
Swallowing Foreign Objects
Puppies are curious and often eat things they shouldn't, leading to vomiting or diarrhea. Small objects may pass through the digestive system, irritating. Larger objects can cause dangerous obstructions, requiring immediate veterinary attention. Common items puppies swallow include toys, socks, underwear, blankets, bones, and long objects like fabric or ribbons, which can cause severe infections if they get stuck.
Toxins
Ingesting toxins can lead to serious health emergencies. If you think that your puppy has consumed something toxic, seek veterinary care immediately. Common toxins include human medications, household cleaners, chocolate, xylitol, grapes, rat poisons, and certain household plants.
Sudden Dietary Changes
Abrupt changes in diet, introducing too many new treats, or feeding human food can inflame a puppy's gastrointestinal tract. To prevent upsetting the digestive system, it's best to transition to new foods gradually over a week.
Pancreatitis
High-fat treats and human foods can cause pancreatitis, leading to pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
Chronic Diseases
While less common, chronic diseases can also cause vomiting and diarrhea in puppies. If a puppy has recurrent issues or doesn't respond to treatment, a vet may investigate food intolerances, allergies, or underlying liver or kidney diseases. Based on the puppy's symptoms, special diets or further testing might be recommended.
Additional Causes Of Vomiting And Diarrhea In Puppies
Hernias in puppies can cause vomiting and diarrhea. This happens when a part of the gastrointestinal tract gets pinched off. Puppies may be born with hernias or develop them after an injury.
Intussusception, which is when a section of the intestines bunches up, can also block the gastrointestinal tract, leading to vomiting and diarrhea in puppies.
Steps To Take If Your Puppy Is Vomiting And Experiencing Diarrhea
Seek veterinary attention immediately if:
- Puppies under four months old are vomiting and/or have diarrhea.
- Puppies over four months old have both vomiting and diarrhea or show signs of illness, such as reduced appetite or lethargy.
- You suspect they have swallowed something harmful or toxic.
- There is blood in the vomit or diarrhea.
- They are vomiting so frequently that they cannot keep food or water down.
- They show signs of dehydration.
- They have been vomiting for over 24 hours.
- They have had diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours.
Puppies with vomiting, diarrhea, or other illness symptoms can quickly become dehydrated and need immediate veterinary care. However, there are situations where you might wait to see the vet:
- For puppies over four months old with vomiting, it may be safe to wait 24 hours before seeing a vet if they do not have diarrhea, can keep down small sips of water, show no signs of pain, rest comfortably, and maintain normal energy levels.
- For puppies over four months old with diarrhea, it may be safe to wait 24 hours if they are not vomiting, have no blood in their diarrhea, do not have frequent watery diarrhea, and are eating, drinking, and behaving normally.
How To Identify Dehydration
Dehydration can occur rapidly in puppies with vomiting and diarrhea. If you think your puppy might be dehydrated, you can try these simple tests at home:
- Skin Tent Test: Gently lift the skin on the back of your puppy's neck. If the skin doesn't quickly snap back into place and returns slowly, your puppy may be dehydrated.
- Mucous Membranes: If your puppy allows it, feel its gums. If they feel sticky or tacky, it may indicate dehydration. Note that some puppies drool when nauseated, making their gums feel moist even if dehydrated.
Other signs of dehydration in puppies include dry noses, sunken eyes, and lethargy.
How Veterinarians Diagnose Diarrhea And Vomiting In Puppies
Veterinarians usually begin with a general examination when treating a puppy with vomiting or diarrhea. They will likely test a stool sample for intestinal parasites and canine parvovirus. Depending on the results, they may also suggest blood tests, X-rays, and ultrasounds to get a clearer picture of your puppy's health.
Your veterinarian will ask several questions to help diagnose the cause of the vomiting and diarrhea, such as:
- A copy of your puppy's vaccination records (if not already on file)
- Whether your puppy is on monthly heartworm prevention (some preventatives also protect against intestinal parasites)
- The duration of the vomiting and diarrhea
- Your puppy's behavior at home
- If your puppy is drinking and eating normally
- The presence of blood in the diarrhea or vomit
- Any recent changes in food or treats
- If your puppy has ingested anything, they shouldn't have
This information helps the veterinarian understand the potential causes and provide the best care for your puppy.
Treatment Of Diarrhea And Vomiting In Puppies
Treatment based on the severity and cause of the condition. Key treatments often include medications to stop vomiting, address dehydration, and correct electrolyte imbalances. Typically, this involves administering an anti-nausea medication like Cerenia and providing fluid therapy.
Your vet may suggest using an oral electrolyte solution such as Oralade for very mild cases without significant dehydration. Subcutaneous fluids may help rehydrate the puppy for mild dehydration. In cases of moderate to severe hospitalization, dehydration, and IV fluids will be required. If a bacterial infection is found, antibiotics may be prescribed. They might also be prescribed for viral infections to prevent secondary bacterial infections, even though antibiotics don't treat viruses.
For gastrointestinal upset caused by intestinal parasites, prescription dewormers and/or antibiotics may be used. If there are concerns about an obstruction, intussusception, hernia, or immediate surgery might be required.
