Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Dog constipated, vomiting on bland diet. When to worry or add fiber?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 15 lbs

My Cockapoo was fine as of yesterday, but this morning he was tryingt to defecate and couldn't. An xray showed a full stomach but no blockage. He threw up a couple of times so vet gave him IV and anti vomit meds. Vet said to give him a small amount of ground beef and rice. This seems constipating to me, and dog seems constipated. Should I give him something with more fiber? How long does it take for a full stomach to make it through colon to pooping? Should I have him evaluated overnight?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 18th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I'm sorry that Coby isn't feeling well. I recommend following the diet plan that his veterinarian outlined for him. Often, bland foods that are easy to digest are recommended, canned food such as Hills I/D or Proplan EN are often recommended. If he has any more vomitting (especially after medications), straining or is painful/uncomfortable I do recommend having him evaluated or hospitalized overnight. It can take anywhere from 6-20 hours or so for food to move through the digestive tract, a lot depends on what food was ingested. If he has any further signs, additional diagnostics such as an ultrasound or contrast study may be recommended to further rule out GI obstruction or other disease. I hope Coby is back to normal quickly!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored