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My dog is vomiting, lethargic, and has diarrhea then constipation?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 40 lbs

Titan hasn’t moved from his bed for 12 hours now - I can hear things going on in his stomach non-stop (laying next to him, his tummy grumbles non-stop). Yesterday he vomited twice, then went outside and had some diarrhea, and looked constipated. This has never happened and I am quite concerned.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 17th, 2018

If Titan has diarrhea and then appears constipated, this is an emergency as he may have an intestinal blockage and he would need to be seen by a veterinarian right away. However if he is just vomiting and has diarrhea and is still eating and drinking try the following: Diarrhea and throwing up can have many causes. It is basically a problem with the stomach and intestines caused by a food over sensitivity, eating something that does not agree with the dog, intestinal parasites, an intestinal blockage, bacterial infection, viral infection, the weather, food change, stress, etc.  I would fast Titan for 24 hours and then put him on bland food for two days, such as boiled white rice and boiled white boneless chicken meat, fed in small quantities over several feeds and then transition back to his regular food slowly over a few days. If this does not clear up the diarrhea or if the vomiting increases, or if he gets lethargic, he needs to see a veterinarian for an exam as there may be something more serious such as an infection going on.

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 9th, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Titan! I usually do not recommend fasting puppies very long due to the risk of low blood sugar. I wouldn't fast longer than one missed meal. Causes of diarrhea are: intestinal parasites, viral (especially parvo) or bacterial infections, dietary indiscretion, food allergy/intolerance or reaction to new food/treats/table food. Sometimes we never know. If the diarrhea doesn't resolve by Friday morning, Titan needs to see a Vet. Bring a stool sample with you. If it worsens or he gets sick then sooner. I would start feeding a bland diet of boiled chicken or hamburger with rice. The prescription diets like Hill's i/d and Royal Canin GI puppy will cause quicker healing than home cooked diet but you need to get them from a Vet. You can start a probiotic like Purina Fortiflora. I wish Titan a speedy recovery!

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    Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on September 14th, 2017

    I typically recommend skipping 1 meal, then feeding a bland diet such as boiled chicken and rice for a few days. If the diarrhea doesn't improve, if it becomes bloody, if Titan begins vomiting or otherwise acting sick then seek veterinary care quickly. Hope this is helpful!

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