Young puppies are especially vulnerable when it comes to vomiting, appetite loss, and refusal to drink water.
Their small size, immature immune systems, and rapid metabolism mean that what might be a mild issue in an adult dog can quickly become life-threatening in a puppy.
If your puppy is vomiting, not eating or drinking, and showing signs of lethargy or weakness, it’s a red flag that needs immediate attention.
Puppy Vomiting, Not Eating or Drinking: Why It Happens
Vomiting, not eating or drinking are a combination of symptoms in puppies that is commonly caused by parvovirus, intestinal parasites, toxin ingestion, congenital issues, or sudden dietary changes.
Vomiting and appetite loss in a puppy can quickly lead to dehydration and low blood sugar, which compounds the danger. When a puppy refuses water as well, the urgency for veterinary care increases drastically.
Puppy Vomiting, Not Eating or Drinking: Common Causes
1. Parvovirus (Parvo)
Parvo is a highly contagious and deadly virus that affects puppies between 6 weeks and 6 months old.
It causes vomiting, bloody diarrhea, extreme lethargy, and complete refusal of food or water.
Puppies infected with parvo need immediate hospitalization.
With early and aggressive treatment—including IV fluids, anti-nausea meds, and antibiotics—many puppies survive.
Delayed treatment, however, can be fatal within a matter of days.
2. Intestinal Parasites
Puppies are frequently born with or acquire worms or protozoal infections such as roundworms, hookworms, coccidia, or giardia.
These parasites can cause vomiting, appetite loss, diarrhea, and dehydration—especially in underweight or neglected puppies.
Routine fecal exams help identify parasites early, and deworming protocols are critical for a healthy start in life.
Related: Dog vomiting and not eating (Causes and when to worry)
3. Toxin Exposure or Foreign Body Ingestion
Puppies explore their environment by chewing and swallowing just about anything—socks, houseplants, medications, or cleaning products.
Ingesting something toxic or indigestible can lead to vomiting, inappetence, water refusal, and weakness.
If your puppy suddenly vomits and stops eating or drinking, especially after being left unsupervised, seek veterinary help immediately.
X-rays or ultrasound may be needed to rule out obstruction or poisoning.
Related: Puppy Vomiting and Not Eating (Here’s why)
4. Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Toy and small breed puppies are particularly prone to hypoglycemia.
When they stop eating or vomit, their blood sugar can drop dangerously low, leading to trembling, lethargy, collapse, and seizures in severe cases.
Puppies that refuse food or water and begin to shake or seem disoriented may need a fast glucose boost and urgent veterinary care.
5. Sudden Dietary Change or Poor Nutrition
Changing a puppy’s food too quickly or feeding poor-quality meals can irritate the stomach and cause vomiting, lack of appetite, and loose stool.
While usually less severe, these signs should still be monitored closely—especially if water is refused.
Puppies require a carefully balanced, high-quality diet appropriate for their age and breed size.
What to Do If Your Puppy Is Vomiting, Not Eating or Drinking
Due to their vulnerability, puppies should not be treated at home for more than a few hours if symptoms persist.
Still, in very mild cases, here’s what you can do while arranging veterinary care:
Withhold food for 4–6 hours, but keep offering small sips of water or ice chips.
Do not give human medications—they can be toxic to puppies.
Keep your puppy warm—hypothermia can develop quickly when they’re sick.
Offer a bland meal (boiled chicken and rice) if vomiting stops and water is tolerated.
Monitor for dehydration signs, like dry gums, skin tenting, or sunken eyes.
If vomiting continues or your puppy is still refusing water, do not delay a vet visit.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek veterinary attention immediately if your puppy:
Vomits multiple times in a short period
Hasn’t eaten or drunk water in over 8–12 hours
Is under 12 weeks old and vomiting
Shows signs of lethargy, trembling, or collapse
Has diarrhea, especially if it’s bloody
Seems bloated, painful, or whines when touched
May have chewed or swallowed something unusual
Time is critical when puppies show these symptoms—even a few hours can make a big difference in outcomes.
Related: Dog Vomiting and Not Eating but Drinking Water (What it means)
Key Takeaway
A vomiting puppy that won’t eat or drink is never “just having an off day.” These symptoms in combination are a warning that your puppy may be in serious trouble.
Don’t wait for things to improve on their own—puppies can deteriorate rapidly.
Acting quickly by calling your vet, monitoring hydration, and avoiding risky at-home remedies can protect your puppy’s health and potentially save their life.
When in doubt, always choose to be cautious—it’s the best way to give your pup the strong, healthy start they deserve.