It can be alarming to see a dog pooping blood and vomiting, especially if they otherwise seem to be acting normal.
Even though your dog may appear energetic and playful, these symptoms should never be ignored as they can point to potentially serious underlying health issues.
We outline the possible causes of a dog pooping blood and vomiting but acting normal, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Pooping Blood and Vomiting but Acting Normal — Why It Happens
Dogs may pass blood in their stool and vomit while still behaving normally due to a variety of issues, some mild and others more concerning. Digestive upset from dietary indiscretion, parasites, or infections can cause these symptoms without immediately affecting your dog’s energy levels. Stress, food allergies, or exposure to toxins may also be responsible.
Even though your dog may appear outwardly fine, these internal changes warrant attention, as conditions can worsen quickly if left unchecked.
Dog Pooping Blood and Vomiting but Acting Normal: Common Causes
Dietary Indiscretion
Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn’t. Consuming spoiled food, trash, or rich table scraps can irritate the gastrointestinal tract.
This irritation may lead to vomiting and blood in the stool, while your dog still runs around and plays as usual.
The blood often results from inflammation in the intestines.
While sometimes minor, it can develop into more serious illness if harmful bacteria or toxins are involved.
Read more: Dog Pooping Blood and Vomiting (Here’s what it could mean)
Parasites
Intestinal parasites such as hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms can cause bloody stools and occasional vomiting.
In some cases, a dog may not show outward signs of illness right away.
They may appear healthy and active even as the parasites damage the intestinal lining. Left untreated, parasite infestations can lead to anemia, malnutrition, and worsening digestive upset.
Gastrointestinal Infections
Bacterial or viral infections may cause vomiting and blood in the stool while your dog continues to act normal in the early stages.
Infections like parvovirus or bacterial gastroenteritis can progress quickly, turning a seemingly stable dog into a very sick one.
Early symptoms may appear deceptively mild, making it critical not to dismiss them.
Food Sensitivities or Allergies
Some dogs react poorly to certain proteins, grains, or food additives, resulting in gastrointestinal inflammation.
This inflammation can cause vomiting and blood in the stool. Dogs with food sensitivities may otherwise behave normally, making it difficult for owners to recognize the seriousness of the problem. If ongoing, dietary management is essential.
Stress or Anxiety
Stressful events like travel, boarding, or household changes can disrupt a dog’s digestion.
In these cases, a dog may vomit or have blood in the stool from stress-induced colitis. Despite these symptoms, they may still have bursts of normal energy or playfulness. However, persistent stress-related symptoms should be addressed with both environmental adjustments and veterinary care.
Ingesting Toxins
Certain toxins, such as household chemicals, medications, or plants, can cause internal irritation leading to vomiting and bloody stools.
Sometimes, a dog may initially act normal despite ingesting something harmful. As the toxin spreads in the body, more serious symptoms can appear quickly. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate veterinary evaluation.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Pooping Blood and Vomiting but Acting Normal
If your dog is otherwise bright and energetic but showing these symptoms, remain calm but take them seriously. Begin by withholding food for 12 hours (while still offering water) to allow the stomach to settle.
After this period, you can offer small amounts of a bland diet such as boiled chicken and rice.
Monitor your dog closely for any changes in behavior, appetite, or stool. If the blood persists beyond a day or two, or if the vomiting continues, veterinary care is necessary.
Deworming treatments may be appropriate if parasites are suspected, but always consult with your vet before administering medication.
Supportive care at home can include keeping your dog hydrated, reducing stress, and avoiding rich or fatty foods. However, remember that acting normal does not rule out serious illness. Be proactive rather than waiting for worsening symptoms.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek veterinary help immediately if your dog begins to act lethargic, refuses food, or continues to vomit frequently. Large amounts of blood in the stool, black tarry stools, or blood combined with diarrhea are warning signs of more serious disease.
If your dog has recently eaten something toxic or you suspect poisoning, go to the vet without delay, even if they appear normal.
Puppies, older dogs, and dogs with pre-existing health conditions should always be seen right away, as they are more vulnerable to complications.
Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, it’s better to have your dog checked early rather than risk waiting.
Read more: Why is my dog not eating and acting normal (Here’s why)
Key Takeaway
Seeing a dog pooping blood and vomiting but acting normal can be confusing and concerning.
While they may still seem playful and energetic, these symptoms are never something to overlook. Causes can range from mild dietary upset to parasites, infections, or even toxin ingestion.
Monitor closely, offer supportive care, and don’t hesitate to contact your vet if symptoms persist or worsen.
Acting normal is not a guarantee that your dog is safe. Early action is always the best way to protect your dog’s health and wellbeing.