Symptoms of Dog Stomach Problems & Digestive Issues

Dogs throw up all the time - if something disagrees with them, when they eat something putrid that they've discovered and consumed, or just when they have a bit of an upset tummy. However, persistent dog stomach problems should be checked by a vet. Any sort of continued vomiting should be checked, but it is even more important when it impacts your dog's quality of life. Your vet can determine whether the stomach problems are truly a digestive problem, or whether it's some other dog health problem.

Persistent vomiting isn't just an unpleasant mess. The loss of fluids can cause your dog to become severely dehydrated, to the point where it becomes a medical emergency. And it's not unreasonable to assume that continued vomiting is upsetting to your dog, too - it doesn't feel good, and could make his stomach and his throat sore as well. Bring your dog to the vet immediately if his vomiting persists, or if he shows other signs of a medical issue, such as staggering or disorientation.

If your dog is vomiting, keep a record of information like:

• When did the vomiting start?
• Is the vomiting chronic (regular), or did it suddenly start? Note the date/time of each episode, as well as anything out of the ordinary your dog ate prior to the episode.
• Is your dog in distress or is he listless? Or does he appear to be otherwise fine after throwing up?
• Has your dog eaten anything unusual?
• Has your dog's diet recently changed?
• Has your dog had access to any chemicals or unusual substances in or around the house or yard? Lawn fertilizers and pesticides are common culprits, as are poisonous plants in the garden.
• What is being vomited - food (digested / partially digested / undigested), bile, something else?
• Are your dog's stools normal or have they changed as well?

An accurate record can help your vet to make a preliminary diagnosis, or at least determine whether further testing will be required. Blood work may be recommended as well.

Dog stomach problems aren't uncommon. The occasional vomiting and diarrhea is not usually anything to worry about... but an acute or violent vomiting episode, or persistent vomiting, indicates that a consultation with the vet is in order.