If your dog drinks a lot of water and then throws up, it’s not just messy—it could be a red flag. Whether it’s due to drinking too fast, underlying illness, or an upset stomach, repeated vomiting after water intake deserves attention.
We outline the common causes of dog drinking a lot of water and then throwing up, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Drinking a Lot of Water and Then Throwing Up — Why It Happens
Dogs may vomit after drinking a lot of water due to gulping, nausea, stomach upset, heat exhaustion, or serious medical conditions like kidney disease or diabetes. This cycle can lead to dehydration and further complications if not addressed quickly.
Common Causes of Dog Drinking a Lot of Water and Then Throwing Up
Drinking Too Quickly
When dogs drink water too fast—especially after exercise or excitement—it can stretch the stomach and cause vomiting.
This is particularly common in puppies and deep-chested breeds.
Slow down drinking with a no-gulp bowl or by offering small amounts more frequently.
Nausea or Gastrointestinal Upset
Dogs may instinctively drink water to ease stomach discomfort, but this can backfire.
If vomiting follows immediately or is repeated, it may be due to dietary indiscretion, viruses, or gastritis.
Look for other signs like drooling, lip licking, or lack of appetite.
Related: Dog drinking a lot of water and not eating (Here’s why)
Heat Exhaustion
Overheated dogs may gulp water rapidly and then vomit soon after.
Other symptoms include heavy panting, weakness, or collapse.
Move your dog to a cooler area and seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect heatstroke.
Kidney Disease
Dogs with kidney problems may drink a lot to compensate for fluid loss, but nausea and vomiting are also common symptoms.
You may also see weight loss, lethargy, and decreased appetite.
A vet can confirm kidney disease through blood and urine tests.
Diabetes Mellitus
In diabetic dogs, increased thirst is a hallmark sign—but vomiting can occur if blood sugar levels are uncontrolled.
Vomiting in a diabetic dog is always serious and may signal a crisis like diabetic ketoacidosis.
Prompt veterinary intervention is essential.
Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe vomiting and increased thirst.
Dogs may appear hunched, in pain, or uninterested in food.
This condition requires urgent veterinary treatment and supportive care.
What to Do If Your Dog Drinks Water and Throws Up
Limit water access temporarily and offer small amounts every 15–30 minutes to prevent overconsumption.
Avoid food for several hours if vomiting persists, then offer a bland diet in small portions.
Monitor your dog for signs of lethargy, discomfort, or repeated vomiting.
Do not administer medications without veterinary approval.
If vomiting happens more than once or is paired with other symptoms, call your vet promptly.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek veterinary help if your dog:
Vomits after every time it drinks
Shows signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes)
Is lethargic, weak, or disoriented
Refuses food or water
Has a history of diabetes, kidney disease, or recent toxin exposure
Your vet may perform blood tests, imaging, or urinalysis to determine the cause.
Read more: Dog Drinking a Lot of Water and Vomiting (Here’s what to watch for)
Key Takeaway
If your dog drinks a lot of water and then throws up, it could be due to rapid gulping, nausea, or an underlying health problem.
Moderate their water intake, monitor symptoms, and don’t delay calling your vet if the vomiting continues. Timely care makes all the difference.