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My 5-month-old puppy is vomiting and lethargic. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | 15 lbs

My dog is vomiting and just not acting like him self he is 5 months old what could be wrong with him it all just started today

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 5th, 2017

In a young puppy with vomiting and lethargy our main concerns include GI parasites, parvo virus, GI foreign body (i.e. dog ate a piece of a toy, fabric, rock, etc.), or dietary indiscretion (i.e. eating something they aren't used to, like a new treat or food from the trash). It would be safest to have your puppy see the veterinarian for an exam and to test for intesitnal parasites and parvo virus. If these are negative, the vet may recommend an x-ray or may treat your dog symptomatically (with anti-vomiting injections) depending on the exam and history.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Christie Long, DVM

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on May 23rd, 2017

    It absolutely could be. Parvo typically starts by causing vomiting, and then in 24 - 36 hours produces bloody, very watery, malodorous diarrhea. If Apollo isn't vaccinated, that's the first thing I would consider. Other possibilities include intestinal parasites, a gastrointestinal infection due to bacteria, or a foreign object blocking the GI tract. Your vet can help you sort out the exact problem.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 24th, 2018

    I'm sorry Lexi is sick! In unvaccinated dogs, parvo is a risk but you would see other signs such as anorexia, lethargy, regular vomiting, and bloody diarrhea. Now without seeing her in person, I can't rule out parvo, and it is concerning that she won't eat or drink. Because of this, I do think it's best to have her seen by a vet today to be safe. The vet can do a parvo snap test to diagnose if she does have parvo or not. Give your vet a call now to get her into them today. Best of luck, I hope this helps.

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