If your old dog is vomiting and panting at the same time, you’re right to be concerned.
Vomiting in senior dogs, especially when paired with panting, is rarely a coincidence.
These symptoms often go hand in hand due to several underlying causes—ranging from mild issues like indigestion to life-threatening emergencies such as organ failure or poisoning.
We outline the common causes of old dog vomiting and panting, what symptoms to watch for, and when it’s time to call your veterinarian.
Here’s Why Old Dog Vomiting and Panting Happens
Old dog vomiting and panting often occur together due to underlying health issues that become more common with age. These symptoms can signal anything from mild digestive upset to serious conditions like organ failure, heatstroke, poisoning, or heart disease.
Vomiting results from gastrointestinal distress or toxin exposure, while panting may indicate pain, fever, dehydration, or difficulty breathing.
In senior dogs, weakened bodily systems make it harder to cope with stress or illness, so vomiting and panting should always be taken seriously and evaluated by a veterinarian.
Common causes of old dog vomiting and panting
Heatstroke or overheating
Old dogs are more sensitive to heat. When exposed to high temperatures, they may begin panting heavily to regulate their body temperature.
If they get too hot, vomiting can follow as the body reacts to stress and dehydration.
Heatstroke is a medical emergency.
An old dog vomiting and panting, especially after being outside in warm weather, could be in danger.
Other signs to look for include drooling, lethargy, red gums, and collapse.
Pain or discomfort
Panting in older dogs is often a sign of pain.
Pain can come from joint problems like arthritis, dental disease, or internal organ issues.
Vomiting can accompany pain if the discomfort affects the gastrointestinal system.
If your senior dog has suddenly started vomiting and panting without an obvious trigger, pain should be considered.
Dogs hide pain well, but signs like restlessness, whining, or limping might also appear.
Nausea and gastrointestinal problems
One of the most common causes of old dog vomiting and panting is gastrointestinal upset.
This may be triggered by eating something spoiled, dietary indiscretion, pancreatitis, or even food allergies.
Nausea can cause vomiting, while the discomfort from abdominal pain leads to panting.
Chronic issues like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or gastric ulcers may also trigger these symptoms and need proper management.
Kidney or liver disease
As dogs age, their organs naturally decline in function.
Kidney disease and liver disease are especially common in senior dogs and can cause vomiting due to toxin buildup in the bloodstream.
Panting occurs as the body tries to compensate for discomfort or metabolic changes.
Old dog vomiting and panting due to organ dysfunction usually comes with other signs: weight loss, bad breath, increased thirst, loss of appetite, or jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or gums).
Related: Old dog diarrhea and vomiting (Causes and treatment)
Ingesting toxins
Poisoning is another serious cause. A dog that has consumed toxic substances like medications, chocolate, antifreeze, or household cleaners can exhibit both vomiting and panting.
Toxins affect internal organs and upset the digestive and nervous systems.
Immediate signs include drooling, restlessness, vomiting, and fast breathing.
If you suspect your old dog has eaten something toxic, act fast—it could be life-threatening.
Respiratory problems or heart disease
Panting is a classic sign of respiratory distress.
Heart disease, especially congestive heart failure, is common in old dogs and can result in fluid buildup in the lungs.
This causes panting and coughing.
In advanced stages, the disease may also cause nausea and vomiting due to reduced blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract.
Dogs with heart problems may also show signs such as a bluish tongue, difficulty lying down, or weakness after mild activity.
Anxiety and stress
Old dogs can develop anxiety, especially those with cognitive decline or who have recently experienced a change in routine or environment.
Anxiety causes excessive panting, and if the stress is severe enough, it may trigger vomiting.
Common stressors include loud noises, vet visits, separation from their owner, or unfamiliar settings.
Senior dogs may also suffer from canine cognitive dysfunction, which can affect sleep, appetite, and behavior.
Side effects of medication
Many older dogs are on long-term medications for conditions like arthritis or heart disease.
Unfortunately, side effects can include vomiting and panting.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) often irritate the stomach lining, while steroids may increase panting as a side effect.
If your dog starts vomiting and panting after a new medication is introduced, this may be the cause.
Related: Old dog vomiting and lethargic (Here’s why)
What to do if your old dog is vomiting and panting
When your old dog is vomiting and panting, you need to act quickly to assess the situation and respond appropriately.
1. Monitor for additional symptoms
Take note of any other signs such as:
Lethargy or collapse
Pale or bluish gums
Bloated abdomen
Weakness or disorientation
Seizures
Fever
These may indicate a more urgent medical issue requiring immediate attention.
2. Check their environment
If your dog may have overheated, move them to a cooler place and offer water.
If poisoning is suspected, look for empty packages, chewed-up bottles, or access to cleaning supplies, medications, or plants.
3. Do not give any medication without veterinary advice
Giving over-the-counter medications or home remedies can make the situation worse.
Many human medications are toxic to dogs and can compound the issue.
4. Avoid food until symptoms subside
If your old dog is vomiting, avoid giving them food for a few hours to allow the stomach to settle.
Once vomiting stops, offer a bland diet in small portions (like boiled chicken and rice) and monitor for recurrence.
5. Seek veterinary care immediately if symptoms persist
If your old dog vomiting and panting does not resolve within a few hours, or is accompanied by other serious symptoms like bloody vomit, tremors, or difficulty breathing, call your vet.
Seniors have lower tolerance for dehydration and complications.
Veterinarians may perform tests such as bloodwork, X-rays, ultrasound, or urinalysis to determine the cause.
Early treatment can significantly improve outcomes, especially in cases of kidney failure, pancreatitis, or toxic ingestion.
Key Takeaway
Old dog vomiting and panting are serious symptoms that should not be ignored.
They can arise from a range of issues—some relatively mild, others potentially life-threatening.
Whether it’s due to heatstroke, organ dysfunction, poisoning, stress, or side effects from medication, these signs demand attention, especially in aging pets with reduced resilience.
If your senior dog is showing these signs suddenly or repeatedly, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference in preserving your dog’s health and comfort.
By staying observant, acting swiftly, and partnering with your vet, you can help ensure that your aging companion gets the care they need—and deserves—during their golden years.