Dog Throwing Up Undigested Food

This question for our Pet Doc comes from Emily in San Diego.

My Dog Throws Up Food?

• My pet is a: dog
• My pet's name is: Toots
• Breed: Imperial Shih Tzu
• Age of pet: 15

What is the Problem?

My dog appeared to overload with too much dog food (not people food). And then tossed it all. All of it. And now she's looking to eat. This is the first time she's really ever thrown up.

When did Toots Start Throwing up?

First time today about 45 minutes after eating her dinner of Hills Brothers AD (very rich), approximately 1/4 to 1/3 can. She had eaten her Nature's Recipe 1/3 cup about 2 or 3 hours before.

How Has Her Situation Changed?

The throwing up just happened today. My concern is that she wants to eat, but I don't want her to throw up all over again. What do I feed her or do I? It has appeared to improve her "bellyache".

Answer From Our Pet Doc:

Hi Emily. Thanks for contacting us about Toots. The short answer on what I would recommend is to fully assess how Toots looks to you overall. Would you know she was sick if you didn't see her vomit? If the answer to this question is yes, then I recommend you see your local veterinarian for advice. If she is otherwise normal, then try withholding food for 12-24 hours. Slowly introduce her food after that time and reassess. If there is no change after 24 hours or any further decline at anytime, then seek the help of a local veterinarian. Hope this helps and let us know how everything goes. Good luck!

Jacob Mireles, DVM, aka The Pet Doc

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