Throwing up water in dogs, also known as water vomiting, is a condition where a dog expels water from their stomach without any solid or semi-solid matter. This can occur due to a variety of reasons.
Dog diarrhea and throwing up water are symptoms that sometimes occur together. While diarrhea and vomiting are common in dogs, it is important to understand what causes these two symptoms and when to seek veterinary care.
We outline the potential causes of dog diarrhea and throwing up water, what to do, and when to seek help.
Here’s why dog diarrhea and throwing up of water occurs
Dog diarrhea and throwing up water are symptoms that can occur together and often happen due to underlying conditions that cause these symptoms. This includes illness, intestinal parasites, poisoning, bacterial or viral infection, stress, allergies, medication, or dietary indiscretion.
Throwing up water is also caused when a dog drinks water too quickly or drinks too much water while nauseous, vomits on an empty stomach, or has a gastrointestinal obstruction.
What is vomited comes up as water or clear liquid which is a mixture of water, saliva, and sometimes form.
Is it normal for dogs to diarrhea and throw up water
No, it is not normal for dogs to have diarrhea and throw up water however, it is not uncommon for dogs to experience these symptoms at the same time.
While occasional diarrhea and vomiting can be a sign of minor digestive upset, chronic or frequent episodes can indicate an underlying health issue.
Related:
What to do if your dog has diarrhea and throwing up water
Generally, vomiting of water is not of medical concern unless a dog shows other symptoms of illness or there is an increase in the frequency of vomiting.
In some cases, a dog will have diarrhea and vomit water then continue going about their day as normal which means they should be ok.
When your dog has diarrhea and throws up water, first assess the situation by monitoring them and note if they present other symptoms, the frequency of diarrhea and vomiting, or if there is a deterioration of their health.
Also, look around for evidence of accidental ingestion of toxins such as spillage of any gardening chemicals, household products, or leftover human food that they might have eaten.
When to see a veterinarian for diarrhea and throwing up of water
It’s important to consult with a veterinarian if your dog is experiencing diarrhea and vomiting water, especially if the symptoms persist and if they are accompanied by other symptoms such as:
Dehydration: If your dog is showing signs of dehydration, such as sunken eyes, dry gums, or lethargy, it’s important to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
Blood in the stool or vomit: Blood in the stool or vomit can be a sign of a serious underlying condition and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Loss of appetite: That is if your dog is not eating or shows a decreased appetite.
Lethargy: If your dog is showing signs of lethargy or weakness.
Persistent or severe diarrhea and vomiting: If your dog’s diarrhea persists for more than 12 hours or if it is severe and also if the vomiting is continuous.
Other symptoms: Indication of any other symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, or difficulty breathing, shows that your dog is unwell and should receive medical attention.
Young, old, or immune-compromised dogs: If your dog is young, old, or immune-compromised, they are more susceptible to illnesses, therefore it is best to seek veterinary care as soon as possible to prevent further complications.
Diarrhea and throwing up of water can be caused by a variety of conditions, some of which may be serious and require prompt veterinary attention.
Consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause and to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Interested in learning more about dog diarrhea and how to take proactive steps to manage it? Our comprehensive guide on dog diarrhea offers a wealth of information, including causes, treatment options at home, preventive measures, and more. Don’t miss out— explore the complete guide.
How to prevent your dog diarrhea and throwing up of water
There are several measures you can put in place to prevent your dog from diarrhea and throwing up water. This includes:
Regular health check-ups
Regular health exams for your dog can help find problems before they start. In consultation with your veterinarian, schedule health checkup visits to ensure that your dog is in good health.
Health conditions that cause throwing up of water can be detected early, treated, and managed to prevent your dog from vomiting.
Provide slow-feeding bowls
Vomiting of water due to fast eating and /or drinking can be prevented by providing your dog with a slow feeding bowl that limits fast feeding.
Excessive water intake can cause a dog to throw up water, however never deny your dog access to drinking water.
Excess water intake beyond the normal amount is a sign of a disease which after medical examination can be treated or managed.
Lock up household toxins
Keep away household products that may be potential toxins to your dog. Preventing your dog from having access to them also prevents accidental ingestion of toxins and the resultant throwing up.
Switch to a healthy diet or prescription diet
Gastric inflammation can be controlled and minimized by feeding your dog a healthy diet suitable for their breed and size.
A dog that is allergic or intolerant to some food elements in their current diet can be switched to specially formulated dog food for a sensitive stomach or one lacking certain ingredients.
If required, your veterinarian will recommend a prescription diet.
Summary: Dog diarrhea and vomiting water
A dog throwing up water typically is not a medical concern unless the vomiting is frequent and your dog starts showing other signs of illness such as diarrhea.
Dog diarrhea and throwing up of water can be due to serious underlying health conditions therefore book an appointment with your veterinarian.
There are also methods you can implement to prevent your dog from having diarrhea and throwing up. By following these tips, you will minimize the occurrence of diarrhea and vomiting of water.