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My puppy has diarrhea, vomiting, and won't drink. When to see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 15 days old

My dog has diarrhea. It got worse as the day went on. And for the first time today, vomited. His diarrhea started normal, just frequently making bowl movements. Then it got softer by mid day, now at 8:18 pm, is very watery. He has a loss of appetite, and won't drink his water. A little more quiet and still than usual also. Other than that, normal. Gets excited when he sees us. Tries to play. Etc.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Amy Poole, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 16th, 2017

Diarrhea can make dogs feel pretty awful, so poor Nox. I am concerned that Nox may be getting dehydrated from the combination of diarrhea, vomiting, and inability to drink water. Dehydration alone will make dogs feel miserable, so I do think you should take him in for an exam with a vet. I would recommend having his stool checked for intestinal parasites as well as any abnormal bacteria he could have picked up that could have caused this. He also may have eaten something that upset his entire GI tract, so he may need some supportive care, for example anti-nausea medication, ant-diarrheal medication, and possibly some fluids to rehydrate him.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 19th, 2017

    Poor Banjo! It's not unusual to see a period of time where a dog doesn't pass feces after having diarrhea. It's ok that he doesn't have an appetite, and I wouldn't try to feed him until the morning. When you do feed him, offer a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken (no bones) and white rice in small amounts several times a day for a couple of days. Then slowly add back in his normal diet. If the vomiting continues in the absence of food, he vomits the bland diet, the diarrhea starts on the bland diet, he stops drinking water, starts vomiting water, or becomes very lethargic, he will need to see a vet right away. I hope this helps!

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