Seeing your dog suffer from loose stool and vomiting can be distressing. As a pet parent in the U.S., you want clear answers and practical steps to help your furry friend feel better. At Coronado Animal Hospital, our experienced veterinarians are here to guide you through why this happens, what to do at home, and when to seek professional care.

This article provides expert-backed insights to address dog loose stool and vomiting and ensure your dog’s health.

Understanding Dog Loose Stool and Vomiting

Loose stool (diarrhea) is soft, watery, or frequent bowel movements, while vomiting involves the forceful expulsion of stomach contents. When these occur together, they often indicate an upset in your dog’s digestive system. While mild cases may resolve within a day, persistent or severe symptoms can lead to dehydration or signal serious health issues, especially in puppies or senior dogs. Recognizing the signs and causes is the first step to helping your dog recover.

Common Causes of Loose Stool and Vomiting in Dogs

Several factors can trigger dog loose stool and vomiting, ranging from minor to serious. Below are the most common causes, based on veterinary expertise:

1. Dietary Issues

Eating inappropriate foods—like table scraps, garbage, or grass—or sudden diet changes can irritate your dog’s stomach and intestines.

• Symptoms: Loose stool, vomiting, mild discomfort.

• Common in: Curious dogs or those fed human food.

• Action: Avoid sudden diet switches; transition to new food over 7–10 days.

2. Parasites

Intestinal parasites such as giardia, roundworms, or hookworms can inflame the gut, causing diarrhea and vomiting.

• Symptoms: Mucus or blood in stool, weight loss, poor appetite.

• Common in: Dogs exposed to contaminated water or other animals.

• Action: Schedule a fecal test with your vet for diagnosis and deworming.

3. Infections

Bacterial (e.g., salmonella), viral (e.g., parvovirus), or fungal infections can lead to gastrointestinal upset, especially in unvaccinated dogs.

• Symptoms: Fever, lethargy, blood in stool or vomit.

• Common in: Puppies or dogs in crowded environments like shelters.

• Action: Seek immediate veterinary care, as some infections are life-threatening.

4. Stress or Colitis

Stress-induced colitis (colon inflammation) from events like travel, boarding, or loud noises can cause loose stool and vomiting.

• Symptoms: Frequent, small stools with mucus, straining.

• Common in: Anxious dogs or sensitive breeds like Boxers.

• Action: Reduce stressors and consult a vet for anti-inflammatory treatments.

5. Toxins or Blockages

Ingesting toxic substances (e.g., chocolate, antifreeze) or foreign objects (e.g., toys, socks) can cause severe digestive issues or blockages.

• Symptoms: Sudden onset, abdominal pain, refusal to eat.

• Common in: Puppies or dogs with chewing habits.

• Action: Contact a vet immediately; time is critical.

6. Chronic Conditions

Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis, or liver disease may cause recurring loose stool and vomiting.

• Symptoms: Chronic diarrhea, weight loss, poor coat condition.

• Common in: Older dogs or breeds like German Shepherds.

• Action: Veterinary diagnostics like bloodwork or ultrasound are needed.

When to Worry: Red Flags to Watch For

Mild cases of dog loose stool and vomiting may resolve with rest and a bland diet, but certain symptoms require urgent veterinary attention to prevent dehydration or complications:

• Symptoms lasting more than 24 hours (12 hours for puppies or seniors).

• Blood in stool (bright red or black/tarry) or vomit.

• Lethargy, weakness, or refusal to eat/drink.

• Signs of pain (whining, hunched posture) or fever.

• Dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, skin that doesn’t snap back).

If you notice these signs, don’t wait—contact Coronado Animal Hospital or an emergency vet right away.

Home Care for Mild Cases

For mild, short-term cases without severe symptoms, try these vet-approved steps while monitoring your dog closely:

1. Fast Temporarily: Withhold food (not water) for 12–24 hours to rest the digestive system. Never fast puppies without vet guidance.

2. Offer a Bland Diet: After fasting, feed small portions of boiled chicken and rice or plain canned pumpkin (1–2 tsp per 10 lbs body weight).

3. Ensure Hydration: Provide fresh water or small amounts of diluted, unflavored electrolyte solution (e.g., Pedialyte).

4. Limit Activity: Keep your dog calm to reduce stress on their system.

5. Monitor Closely: If symptoms persist beyond 24–48 hours or worsen, call your vet.

Warning: Avoid human medications like Imodium or Pepto-Bismol unless prescribed by a veterinarian, as they can be toxic to dogs.

Veterinary Care at Coronado Animal Hospital

If your dog’s symptoms don’t improve or you notice red flags, Coronado Animal Hospital offers comprehensive care to diagnose and treat dog loose stool and vomiting. Our process includes:

• Physical Exam: Assessing your dog’s overall health and symptoms.

• Diagnostics: Fecal tests for parasites, bloodwork for organ function, or imaging (X-rays, ultrasound) for blockages or abnormalities.

• Treatments: Depending on the cause, we may provide IV fluids for dehydration, anti-nausea medications, antibiotics, or dietary management.

• Preventive Plans: Tailored advice on diet, vaccinations, and parasite control to prevent recurrence.

Costs vary based on diagnostics and treatment (e.g., $100–$600+), but early intervention can prevent costly complications. Our team ensures clear communication to help you make informed decisions.

Preventing Loose Stool and Vomiting in Dogs

While not all cases are preventable, you can reduce risks with these strategies:

• Feed a consistent, high-quality diet suited to your dog’s age and breed.

• Keep up with vaccinations and monthly parasite preventatives.

• Secure household hazards like trash, toxic foods (e.g., grapes, onions), and small objects.

• Maintain regular vet check-ups to catch health issues early.

• Minimize stress with a stable routine and calming aids if needed.

Our veterinarians at Coronado Animal Hospital can create a personalized wellness plan to keep your dog’s digestive system healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Loose Stool and Vomiting

How long should I wait before taking my dog to the vet?

If symptoms last over 24 hours, or if you see blood, lethargy, or dehydration, contact a vet immediately. Puppies and seniors need care within 12 hours.

Can I give my dog human anti-diarrhea medication?

No, human medications can be dangerous for dogs. Always consult your vet before administering any medication.

What foods help with dog loose stool and vomiting?

A bland diet of boiled chicken and rice or plain pumpkin can soothe the stomach. Transition back to regular food slowly under vet guidance.

The above article from Coronado Animal Hospital details the causes, symptoms, and treatments for dog loose stool and vomiting. Hope the article is useful to you!