My dog licks floor and vomits. Is it allergies or stomach issues?

Question

From time to time he will get in what I can only describe as an obsessive compulsive state of licking the floor - mostly it seems trying to eat hair and dust on the ground in an effort to make himself throw up. This can last anywhere from twenty minutes to a few hours and usually he feels better/returns to normal after he vomits. It reminds me of when dogs eat grass when their stomach is upset. Any ideas what might be the issue? Behavioural, allergies, digestion problems? Pet's info: Dog | Keeshond | Male | neutered | 3 years and 1 month old | 35 lbs

Linda G, MS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello, & thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. You have a good list of differentials, & all are plausible explanations for Oscar's behavior & symptoms. If this is a relatively new situation, then my first thought might be a food allergy has developed. It is not wise just to go out & purchase different foods. To do a food allergy trial you need a targeted food that requires a prescription from your veterinarian. He might want to try a round of antibiotics & stomach protectants first ( dogs can develop ulcers or bacterial overgrowths ). If you do want to try something at home first, you can purchase a probiotic called FortiFlora at most pet stores or on line. Feed 1 packet a day for 30 days & see if this helps. If no response in a couple of weeks, please consult your veterinarian. Hope Oscar is feeling better soon. Take care.

My dog licks floor and vomits. Is it allergies or stomach issues?

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