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My dog ate trash, threw up, but hasn't pooped. Should I be worried?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 9 months old | 64 lbs

My dog ate a few condiment packets. I think she got into the trash while I was at work. She threw up this morning and there were 3 packets in her vomit. She has been eating and acting normal all day today, but she hasn’t had a bowel movement. On an average day, she has about 3. Should I be worried? Or should I wait it out and see if any other symptoms show up? I tend to jump the gun usually and rush to the vet when it’s not needed. Thank you!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 3rd, 2018

Thanks for visiting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. The fact that she is eating normal with no further vomiting is a good sign. Often-times when a pet eats something they should n't, the GI tract will slow down. This is called ileus. This is likely the reason she hasn't had a bowel movement yet. Continue to monitor her for the next few days to ensure she continues to have a good healthy appetite, no vomiting, and a bowel movement. I would only become concerned if she becomes lethargic, doesn't eat, vomits, and/or strains to poop but can't. Otherwise, she will likely be just fine. It's probably best to get a locking trashcan from here moving forward and to always have it secured before you leave, because dogs tend to not learn their lesson when ingesting things that make them sick. I hope things continue to go well for your pet Harley Rae. Take care!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello, sorry to hear about Harley. If she has not vomited since the initial episode, it may be that she vomited the condiments after they did not sit well in her stomach. Therefore, given that she is otherwise acting normal and is eating, you may continue to watch her at home for any other more severe clinical signs. These may include severe lethargy, persistent vomiting, loss of appetite, or diarrhea. If any of these are noted, if she vomits more that 4 times in one day, if she develops bloody diarrhea and loses her appetite, then you should seek her veterinarian for further evaluation. It sounds like she is doing well currently, and a visit to the emergency room is not needed, however, if worried please seek your emergency veterinarian promptly for further assessment. Hope this helps and best of luck.

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