Vomiting & diarrhoea in puppies

Upset tummies can be common in puppies. Vomiting and diarrhoea, however, are often concerning and can indicate anything from minor digestive issues to more serious health problems. Understanding what causes these symptoms and knowing how to help can make a big difference. This guide will cover common causes, home care, and when to seek veterinary help. It’s important to always monitor your puppy’s symptoms carefully, as their small bodies can quickly become dehydrated.

Causes of vomiting and diarrhoea in puppies

Vomiting and diarrhoea are common in young dogs, especially when they’re adjusting to new foods or environments. Puppies often experience digestive upset after changing diet due to the transition from their breeder or rescue centre to your home. Sensitive tummies can react to new foods, treats, or even stress from the new environment.

Other potential causes include:

• Eating foreign objects: Puppies are curious and may swallow toys, socks, or other objects, which can cause blockages and lead to vomiting.
• Parasites: Intestinal parasites such as worms are common in puppies and can lead to diarrhoea and weight loss. Ensure your puppy is on a vet-prescribed deworming schedule.
• Ingesting toxins: Common household substances like chocolate, certain plants, cleaning products, or human medications are toxic to puppies. Always supervise them and keep dangerous items out of reach.

If you suspect your puppy may have ingested something harmful or if they’re displaying unusual symptoms, contact your vet immediately.

Observing symptoms

Start by considering recent changes or events that might have affected your puppy’s health. Ask yourself:

• Have they eaten any new foods or treats?
• Is any toy or household item missing that they may have swallowed?
• Have they had contact with any plants, chocolate, or other toxins?

If your puppy has been exposed to anything toxic or is showing signs like loss of appetite, call your vet promptly.

Puppy diarrhoea with blood

If your puppy’s diarrhoea contains blood, this is a sign to take seriously. A small amount of bright red blood can sometimes occur from straining. However, if the blood is frequent, or dark and tar-like, it may indicate a serious issue such as a bacterial infection, parasite infestation, or gastrointestinal illness. Always consult your vet if you notice blood in your puppy’s stool.

Diarrhoea after vaccination

Some puppies may experience mild diarrhoea after receiving vaccinations. This is typically a short-term side effect as their immune system adjusts. However, if the diarrhoea continues for more than 24 hours or is accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, speak to your vet to rule out any complications.

What to give a puppy with diarrhoea or vomiting

If your puppy has mild diarrhoea or vomiting but is otherwise active and alert, you can try a few simple steps to help them recover. Start by withholding food for six hours if they’re vomiting, allowing their stomach to settle. During this time, offer small amounts of water frequently to keep them hydrated without overwhelming their system. After the fasting period, introduce a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice in small portions, feeding them little and often throughout the day. Continue this diet for two to three days, monitoring their progress. If their symptoms improve, gradually reintroduce their regular food. If vomiting returns, consult your vet. If diarrhoea is the only symptom, skip the fasting and start a bland diet immediately, offering small, frequent meals to be gentle on their stomach.

Signs to watch for

If your puppy shows any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention:

• Lethargy or weakness: Unusual tiredness can indicate something more severe.
• Signs of dehydration: Dry gums, sunken eyes, or skin that doesn’t quickly return to position after being pinched.
• Dark stool or vomit: Black, tar-like stools or vomit resembling coffee grounds may indicate internal bleeding.

Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea: Vomiting or diarrhoea lasting more than 24 hours in a young puppy requires a vet visit.

Home remedies for puppy diarrhoea

If your puppy has mild diarrhoea but remains active and seems well, there are a couple of safe home remedies you can try. A spoonful of plain, cooked pumpkin (without added sugar) can help firm up stools due to its high fibre content, making it a gentle option for soothing their digestive system. Additionally, a puppy-safe probiotic from your vet or a pet shop can restore healthy gut bacteria and improve digestion. Be cautious to avoid any human probiotics or over-the-counter medications, as these can be harmful to puppies unless specifically approved by your vet.

Choosing the best puppy food for sensitive stomachs

Choosing the right food for a puppy prone to digestive issues can make a big difference. Look for foods that are:

• Easily digestible: Consider foods specifically designed for sensitive stomachs, which often contain gentle ingredients like rice, chicken, or salmon.
• Free from fillers and additives: Artificial colours, preservatives, and grains like corn or wheat can irritate sensitive stomachs.
• Rich in fibre: Fibre can aid digestion, so foods with small amounts of pumpkin, sweet potato, or beet pulp are beneficial.

Speak to your vet about a recommended diet, as they may suggest a special puppy formula for digestive health.

When to seek veterinary treatment

If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s best to consult a vet. Prolonged diarrhoea or vomiting in puppies can quickly lead to dehydration, which is particularly dangerous for young dogs. Your vet may recommend specific treatments to manage your puppy’s symptoms and prevent complications. 

For persistent vomiting, they might prescribe anti-nausea medication to help settle the stomach. If dehydration is a concern, especially in puppies, fluid therapy can be administered to restore proper hydration levels. Additionally, if parasites are suspected as the cause of diarrhoea, your vet can provide the appropriate deworming medication. Early veterinary care can be essential in preventing these issues from escalating into more serious health risks.

Remember, it’s important to recognise if your pet is quiet, lethargic, or showing signs of dehydration. If they’re passing black tar-like faeces, vomiting blood, or dark coffee-coloured vomit then you should contact your vet as soon as possible.

Also, for any young puppies that have had vomiting or diarrhoea longer than 24 hours, you should seek veterinary advice.