When your dog is retching but not eating, it’s natural to feel worried. These symptoms can indicate anything from mild digestive discomfort to serious underlying conditions.
We outline the common causes of dog retching and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Retching and Not Eating — Why It Happens
Retching combined with loss of appetite is often a sign that something is irritating your dog’s gastrointestinal tract or throat. It could be caused by kennel cough, a foreign body stuck in the throat, gastritis, bloat, or even more serious systemic issues like liver disease.
Because dogs usually have strong appetites, skipping meals along with dry heaving often points to discomfort or distress that requires attention.
Common Causes of Dog Retching and Not Eating
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a highly contagious upper respiratory infection that can cause harsh coughing, gagging, and retching.
Dogs may seem like they’re trying to clear something from their throat.
Appetite may drop due to throat irritation, post-nasal drip, or general malaise.
It’s common in dogs exposed to crowded spaces like kennels, dog parks, or groomers.
Though it usually resolves on its own, in some cases it can lead to complications like pneumonia, especially in puppies or older dogs.
Read more: Dog Gagging and Not Eating (Here’s what could be happening)
Foreign Object in Throat
Dogs explore with their mouths and sometimes ingest objects that become lodged in the throat.
A stuck item can trigger repeated retching or gagging as the dog tries to expel it.
This may come with drooling, anxiety, pawing at the mouth, or sudden refusal to eat or drink.
If the object remains stuck, it could obstruct the airway or damage the esophagus.
This is a medical emergency and should be addressed promptly.
Gastritis or Stomach Upset
Irritation of the stomach lining—caused by eating spoiled food, sudden diet changes, or ingestion of toxins—can cause nausea and retching.
The dog may also vomit yellow bile, appear uncomfortable, and lose interest in food.
Mild gastritis may improve with rest and a bland diet, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated.
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
In large, deep-chested breeds, bloat is a life-threatening emergency. The stomach fills with gas and may twist on itself.
One of the earliest signs is unproductive retching or dry heaving—dogs appear to try vomiting but nothing comes up.
Other signs include a swollen abdomen, restlessness, drooling, and collapse. This condition requires immediate emergency care.
Tonsillitis or Throat Inflammation
Swelling or inflammation in the throat, tonsils, or back of the mouth can make swallowing painful and cause retching.
This may stem from bacterial infections, trauma, or secondary irritation from excessive barking or coughing.
Your dog may act like it’s gagging, eat less or avoid food altogether, and appear to have difficulty swallowing.
A vet can confirm this with an oral exam and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Liver or Kidney Disease
When internal organs like the liver or kidneys begin to fail, toxins build up in the bloodstream and affect the entire body.
Dogs may experience nausea, lethargy, bad breath, and in some cases, retching or vomiting.
A drop in appetite is common with chronic organ disease, and the combination of retching and anorexia should not be ignored.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Retching and Not Eating
Start by keeping your dog calm and comfortable. Remove access to food for a few hours to allow the stomach to settle.
You can offer small amounts of water or ice cubes if your dog will take them.
Observe closely—look for signs like bloating, labored breathing, or continued distress.
If the retching resolves and your dog acts normally, you may introduce a bland diet like boiled chicken and rice after 6–12 hours.
Avoid giving treats, table scraps, or any medication unless directed by a vet.
Monitor for any progression of symptoms, especially if your dog becomes lethargic or vomits.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek immediate veterinary attention if:
Your dog is retching repeatedly without producing anything.
You suspect something is stuck in their throat.
The abdomen looks swollen or feels tight.
There is visible distress, panting, or collapse.
Symptoms persist beyond 12–24 hours.
Your dog refuses food entirely or shows signs of dehydration.
A veterinarian can perform diagnostics like X-rays, blood work, or endoscopy to determine the underlying cause and begin treatment.
Read more: Dog Restless and Not Eating (What it means)
Key Takeaway
If your dog is retching and not eating, it may be experiencing anything from a mild throat irritation to a dangerous condition like bloat.
Stay observant, offer comfort, and don’t hesitate to call your vet if symptoms persist or escalate.
Early intervention can make a significant difference in your dog’s recovery and comfort.