When your dog is vomiting and not eating, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it’s a red flag.
Whether it’s sudden or gradual, this combination of symptoms can signal anything from mild digestive upset to serious underlying illness.
Dogs are notorious for hiding discomfort, so when they refuse food and start vomiting, it often means something is significantly wrong.
Understanding the common causes and knowing how to respond can make a major difference in your pet’s health and comfort.
Dog Vomiting and Not Eating: Why It Happens
Vomiting and not eating in dogs can result from gastrointestinal upset, infections, toxin exposure, organ dysfunction, stress, or even something as simple as a recent change in diet.
While some cases resolve on their own, others may indicate more serious conditions such as pancreatitis, intestinal blockages, or kidney disease.
Dog Vomiting and Not Eating: Common Causes
1. Gastrointestinal Upset or Inflammation
Digestive disturbances are a leading cause of a dog vomiting and not eating.
Just like humans, dogs can experience tummy troubles due to spoiled food, eating too quickly, or ingesting something unfamiliar.
Conditions like gastritis or enteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines) often present with vomiting, lethargy, and a lack of appetite.
If your dog threw up once but now seems fine, it could just be a passing issue.
But if your dog refuses food, vomits repeatedly, or acts listless, it could indicate ongoing digestive irritation that needs veterinary attention.
2. Intestinal Obstruction
Dogs are curious eaters and often swallow items they shouldn’t—from socks to bones to plastic toys.
When something gets lodged in the intestines, it can cause repeated vomiting and complete refusal to eat.
Dogs with an intestinal blockage may also show signs of abdominal pain, bloating, and dehydration.
This condition is an emergency. Left untreated, a blockage can lead to tissue death or rupture, which is life-threatening.
If your dog is vomiting and not eating and you suspect they may have swallowed a foreign object, don’t wait—call your vet immediately.
Related: Dog vomiting yellow bile and not eating (What to do)
3. Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, is another common reason for a dog vomiting and not eating.
This condition is often triggered by fatty foods, certain medications, or an underlying metabolic issue.
Dogs with pancreatitis may also have diarrhea, lethargy, and a painful abdomen.
This illness is more common in middle-aged and senior dogs, and breeds like Miniature Schnauzers are particularly prone.
Prompt treatment, usually involving hospitalization and IV fluids, is essential to manage pain and prevent complications.
4. Kidney or Liver Disease
Both the kidneys and liver play critical roles in detoxifying the body.
When either organ starts to fail, toxins accumulate in the bloodstream, often resulting in nausea, vomiting, and appetite loss.
Dogs with kidney or liver disease may also show increased thirst, changes in urination, weight loss, and yellowing of the eyes or gums.
Senior dogs vomiting and not eating should be carefully monitored for these systemic diseases, especially if symptoms persist for more than a day or two.
Early diagnosis can greatly improve treatment outcomes.
5. Infections or Parasites
Bacterial or viral infections—like parvovirus, leptospirosis, or even canine distemper—can lead to both vomiting and loss of appetite.
These are often accompanied by fever, lethargy, and diarrhea.
Puppies, unvaccinated dogs, and dogs in crowded environments (like shelters or boarding facilities) are at higher risk.
Parasitic infestations such as roundworms or giardia can also irritate the gut and cause vomiting and reduced appetite.
A stool test at the vet’s office can often reveal these culprits.
Related: Dog vomiting water and not eating (Here’s why)
6. Stress or Anxiety
Changes in routine, a new environment, travel, or loud noises can upset a dog’s emotional well-being.
Some dogs internalize stress physically, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and not eating.
This is especially true in sensitive breeds or rescue dogs with a history of trauma.
While stress-induced vomiting often resolves within 24–48 hours, chronic stress can contribute to long-term health issues, so addressing the emotional triggers is just as important as treating the physical ones.
7. Reaction to Medications or Vaccinations
Some dogs may react poorly to medications, especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or antibiotics.
Vomiting and appetite loss can be common side effects. Similarly, a dog might feel unwell after receiving vaccinations, which could lead to temporary nausea and refusal to eat.
If you notice these symptoms shortly after starting a new medication or following a vet visit, contact your vet to discuss whether an alternative treatment plan is needed.
Related: Dog vomiting and not eating but drinking water (Here’s why)
What to Do If Your Dog is Vomiting and Not Eating
When faced with this troubling combination of symptoms, start by observing your dog closely.
If the vomiting is mild and your dog seems otherwise normal, try these home care steps:
Withhold food for 12–24 hours to let the stomach settle, but ensure fresh water is available.
Offer bland food such as boiled chicken and white rice in small portions once vomiting stops.
Keep your dog calm and rested, limiting activity to avoid further irritation.
Monitor for additional symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, or lethargy.
Avoid giving over-the-counter human medications, as many are toxic to dogs.
If your dog starts to perk up after a bland meal, that’s a good sign. But don’t force food too soon—let your dog’s appetite return naturally.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Contact your veterinarian if your dog is vomiting and not eating and any of the following applies:
Vomiting persists for more than 24 hours
Your dog is also lethargic, shaking, or drooling excessively
You see blood in vomit, stool, or from the mouth
Your dog shows signs of abdominal pain or swelling
Your dog refuses water or is showing signs of dehydration
Vomiting follows ingestion of a toxin, medication, or foreign object
Your dog is a senior or has pre-existing health conditions
Prompt veterinary care is critical, especially when vomiting is combined with appetite loss.
Diagnostic tests like bloodwork, x-rays, or ultrasound may be needed to pinpoint the cause.
Key Takeaway
Seeing your dog vomiting and not eating can be alarming—but your attention and care can make a big difference.
Sometimes the issue is temporary and mild, but in many cases, it’s your dog’s way of telling you something more serious is going on.
Trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to consult your vet if things don’t improve quickly.
With timely intervention and a little TLC, most dogs recover well and return to their tail-wagging selves.