What Causes Dog Diarrhea and Vomiting?

There are many things that can cause dog diarrhea and vomiting. Often, these symptoms develop because a dog simply has an upset stomach, but they can develop in relation to more serious illnesses as well. For example, a dog could also develop these symptoms because he has heat stroke or intestinal parasites, or if he has been poisoned by some type of harmful substance. A pet owner should not feel alarmed if his dog has occasional symptoms, as this is usually a sign of temporary stomach upset. If the symptoms are severe or chronic, however, the advice of a veterinarian is often recommended.

Most cases of dog diarrhea and vomiting are temporary and only occur occasionally. Usually, these symptoms are caused by something a dog ate that upset his stomach. In such a case, the dog may be intolerant to a food or other edible item he consumed. In some cases, his stomach may become upset because he has consumed a pathogen, such as through food that has been contaminated with viruses or bacteria. Fungi can be at the root of such a problem as well.

Parasites may also cause dog diarrhea and vomiting. Some of the most common intestinal parasites in dogs are tapeworms, giardia, and hookworms. Roundworms can cause this issue as well. While infection with parasites is unpleasant for the pet owner and the dog, especially if the parasites are visible in the stool, they are usually relatively easy to treat using dewormers. Most veterinarians recommend testing pets annually for parasites.

Sometimes poison is at the root of the problem when it comes to dog diarrhea and vomiting. For example, some plants are poisonous for dogs and can cause a dog to develop these symptoms if ingested. A dog could also consume chemicals or even human medications that can cause him to have an stomach upset. A dog might even ingest garbage that contains a toxin that causes him to become ill. To ensure a dog’s recovery, its owners may do well to take him to a veterinarian.

Often, cases of dog diarrhea and vomiting are caused by heat stroke. This can occur when a dog is exposed to extremely high temperatures for a significant period of time or left out in the hot sun for too long. When this happens, the dog may vomit and develop seizures. Heat stroke can prove fatal and warrants swift veterinary help.