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My dog is gulping, pacing, and sick after tug of war. Is it bloat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 4 months and 24 days old | 60 lbs

My dog is excessively gulping and threw up. Now she won’t stop pacing and the gulping hasn’t lessened. We were playing tug of war, and then it started.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 15th, 2019

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Harley. I'm sorry she is excessively gulping and vomiting. If she was playing too soon after eating, that could be causing the problem. You should always wait at least an hour after feeding to play, and an hour after exercise to feed. One thing that could cause the gulping and pacing is bloat. Bloat is a very serious medical condition that is fatal without treatment. Keep a very close eye on her. If this gulping and pacing continues over the next 20-30 minutes, she starts drooling excessively, her abdomen becomes bloated, and/or she tries to vomit but can't, have her seen by a vet immediately. Should these symptoms calm down, monitor overnight and hopefully she will be back to normal in the morning. I hope this helps!

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