What's going on when a dog throws up and can't bring anything up?

There are many reasons why a dog might vomit, and usually, a dog will vomit after several coughs. This type of vomiting is caused by stomach discomfort due to coughing, and digestive tract diseases may also cause vomiting in dogs. If the dog vomits after being nauseated and has no appetite, along with symptoms of diarrhea, it's necessary to go to the vet for a checkup. Reflux is also a possibility, which would require consideration of Megaesophagus or severe muscle weakness. So, if your dog is vomiting and its mental state deteriorates, it's essential to take it to the vet for inspection and treatment promptly.

Gastrointestinal stimulation

Your dog might have gastrointestinal stimulation that causes vomiting. You can start by fasting and withholding water for a day. If the dog stops vomiting after that, there's nothing to worry about. If the vomiting continues, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Liver and kidney disease

If your dog vomits and has symptoms like frequent thirst, frequent urination, anemia, loss of appetite, lethargy, and poor skin elasticity, it could be suffering from liver or kidney disease. This requires medical examination and treatment, along with targeted medication.

Dietary issues

Overeating or eating too fast can cause physiological vomiting in dogs. Don't worry too much; you can feed the dog some digestive enzymes or probiotics to help with digestion and reduce stomach discomfort. If diarrhea occurs, stop feeding the dog for half a day to reduce stomach pressure.

Distemper and parvovirus

If your dog vomits frequently, with foamy vomit and seizures, it's likely infected with distemper or parvovirus, or has poisoning. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately.