It’s especially worrying when a puppy starts throwing up water and refuses to eat. Puppies are more fragile than adult dogs, and what might seem like a minor digestive issue could escalate quickly without proper care.
Vomiting clear fluid—particularly water—combined with a loss of appetite in a young pup should never be brushed off.
We breaks down why your puppy might be throwing up water and not eating, what you can do about it, and when it’s time to get veterinary help.
Puppy Throwing Up Water and Not Eating: Why It Happens
A puppy throwing up water and not eating may be experiencing a range of issues, including infections like parvovirus, intestinal parasites, dietary indiscretions, toxin exposure, or gastrointestinal blockages.
Puppies may continue to drink water in an attempt to soothe their stomachs, but often vomit it up due to nausea, inflammation, or underlying disease.
Since puppies dehydrate faster than adult dogs, it’s essential to take these signs seriously.
Puppy Throwing Up Water and Not Eating: Common Causes
1. Parvovirus
One of the most serious and common causes of a puppy throwing up water and not eating is canine parvovirus.
Parvo spreads easily and can be deadly, especially in unvaccinated puppies.
Vomiting, diarrhea (often with a foul smell or blood), lethargy, and appetite loss are hallmark signs.
If your puppy is vomiting clear liquid and won’t eat—especially with diarrhea—it’s an emergency.
Puppies with parvo need immediate veterinary care and intensive treatment to survive.
2. Intestinal Parasites
Worms and other parasites are extremely common in puppies. Roundworms, hookworms, giardia, and coccidia can all irritate the digestive tract.
Affected puppies may vomit water, have soft or bloody stools, experience bloating, and show little interest in eating.
Since parasites steal nutrients and cause gastrointestinal distress, even a mild infestation can lead to vomiting and anorexia in young dogs.
Deworming and stool testing are typically needed.
Related: Dog vomiting and not eating (Causes and when to worry)
3. Eating Inappropriate Items
Puppies explore the world with their mouths—and that can lead to trouble. Swallowing socks, bits of toys, sticks, or bones can block the intestines.
If your puppy vomits water and isn’t eating, and especially if they’re straining or seem uncomfortable, a foreign body obstruction could be the cause.
These blockages often require surgery and can be life-threatening if ignored.
4. Sudden Diet Change or Food Intolerance
Puppies have sensitive digestive systems. If you’ve recently changed their food or introduced treats that don’t sit well, it can lead to vomiting water and loss of appetite.
While minor tummy upsets may resolve on their own, persistent vomiting or refusal to eat means the food may not be a good fit—or that an allergy or intolerance is involved.
Puppies also need feeding schedules that match their age and size to avoid dips in blood sugar.
Related: Dog vomiting water and not eating (Here’s why)
5. Bacterial or Viral Infection
Infections other than parvo—like distemper, adenovirus, or bacterial gastroenteritis—can also cause vomiting and anorexia.
Even mild respiratory infections can sometimes suppress appetite and trigger nausea.
If your puppy is showing other signs like fever, nasal discharge, coughing, or fatigue along with vomiting, get them checked immediately.
Young immune systems can’t always fight off illness without help.
6. Toxin Ingestion
From antifreeze to household cleaners to human medications, puppies are prone to poisoning simply due to curiosity.
Vomiting water and skipping meals may be early signs of toxic ingestion.
You may also notice drooling, wobbliness, or unusual behavior.
If your puppy was recently around cleaning products, garage areas, medications, or certain plants, get them to a vet without delay.
7. Overeating or Eating Too Quickly
Puppies that gulp down food too fast or overeat may vomit water shortly after drinking.
If this is the case, the vomiting should be isolated and your puppy will likely remain active and interested in food later.
However, repeated episodes, especially if accompanied by lethargy or food refusal, point to a deeper issue.
What to Do If Your Puppy Is Throwing Up Water and Not Eating
If your puppy has only just started showing symptoms and seems alert, you can begin with basic at-home care—but only for a few hours.
Young dogs can decline rapidly. Here’s what you can try:
Withhold food for 6–12 hours to let the stomach rest. Do not withhold water unless vomiting happens immediately after drinking.
Offer small amounts of water or ice chips to avoid dehydration.
Try a bland diet after the rest period: boiled chicken and white rice in small, soft portions.
Use a slow-feed bowl if your puppy tends to gulp food and water quickly.
Watch for diarrhea, bloating, or behavior changes. These may indicate more serious concerns.
Keep your puppy calm and quiet, avoiding active play during recovery.
If vomiting water and refusing food continues beyond 12 hours, or other symptoms develop, call your vet right away.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
You should contact your vet immediately if:
Your puppy is under 6 months old and vomits more than once.
Vomiting water is accompanied by lethargy, diarrhea, or shaking.
Your puppy refuses to eat for more than 12 hours.
There’s blood in the vomit or stool.
Your puppy appears bloated, weak, or in pain.
You suspect they swallowed something toxic or indigestible.
They are unvaccinated or behind on their vaccine schedule.
Puppies decline quickly and are more vulnerable to dehydration, low blood sugar, and complications. A fast response can be life-saving.
Related Blogs
Check out these related posts to learn more about similar issues in dogs of all ages:
Related: Old Dog Vomiting Water and Not Eating (Causes and what to do)
Key Takeaway
A puppy throwing up water and not eating is always a cause for concern. Whether it’s something mild like an upset stomach or something serious like parvovirus, quick action is key.
Puppies don’t have the same resilience as adult dogs, so symptoms that seem minor can become critical within hours.
Monitor your puppy closely, offer small amounts of water, and never hesitate to call your vet. Acting quickly could save your puppy’s life and give them the healthy start they deserve.