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Why does my dog sometimes get lethargic, shake, and then throw up?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 8 months old | 65 lbs

My dog is a very happy and energetic dog, but sometimes he gets very lethargic and a few times he has shaken very badly and then throws up afterwards. Would could cause this?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 27th, 2018

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. There are many causes of vomiting and the shaking is probably him getting ready to vomit. Many times the diet is responsible for any abnormal GI symptoms. I would recommend switching to a different food altogether and consider adding in a probiotic such as Purina Fortiflora. If this does not help, I would recommend having a veterinarian examine him so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 23rd, 2020

    I hate to hear your pup is not feeling good! Just like people, there are many conditions that can make pets vomit. This could range from bacterial over growth to intestinal blockage. I am worried if you are seeing that Atlas is shaky. That makes me concerned that this may not be a simple cause of vomiting. You may try to slowly walk him around the house. Offer him something tasty liked canned dog food, white meat chicken or some dog treats. If he is still shaky or lethargic after 10 minutes, I would be concerned something serious is going on and I recommend to have him examined immediately. Also, it's never wrong to have him checked out to be safe. Any pet vomiting beyond 24 hours, vomiting multiple times, not drinking water or acting very lethargic should be examined by the veterinarian to be safe. Here is some additional information about vomiting: https://www.petcoach.co/article/vomiting-in-dogs/ For mild causes of vomiting, home care may be appropriate. At home, your pup should rest today so no walks or playtime. You may try fasting for 6 hours followed by a bland diet for 24 hours. When in doubt, have Atlas checked out! I hope Atlas starts feeling better quickly! Please feel free to post any additional questions.

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