Category: Dog’s Health

Many dog owners have likely experienced their pets throwing up after eating too quickly. In this article, we will cover:

• Why do dogs eat too quickly?
• The reasons why eating too fast leads to vomiting
• Measures to prevent fast eating

Why do dogs eat too quickly?

Dogs can eat their food very quickly, sometimes finishing their meals in just a few bites. There are specific reasons why dogs eat so fast:

• Dogs’ ancestors, the carnivorous wolves, needed to eat quickly in the wild to avoid having their prey stolen by other animals.
• Dogs have shorter digestive tracts compared to humans, so the food passes through their bodies more quickly.

As a result, dogs tend to eat more frequently than humans to ensure they get the necessary nutrients. Additionally, some dogs simply love food and eat quickly because they are eager and excited about mealtime.

The Impact of Eating Too Quickly on Health

Eating too quickly can lead to vomiting and an increased tendency to burp. Additionally, if a dog finishes eating before blood sugar levels rise, they may not feel full, which can lead to overeating. This results in a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, significantly increasing the risk of developing diseases like diabetes.

Moreover, eating too fast can also cause choking or upset stomach. Therefore, it’s important to take measures to prevent your dog from eating too quickly whenever possible.

The reasons why eating too fast leads to vomiting

One of the well-known side effects of eating too quickly is vomiting. This occurs because the stomach may be unable to process the large amount of food ingested, leading to the food being expelled. Additionally, if a dog swallows a lot of air during mealtime, it can also cause vomiting. Dogs that eat too fast are also more prone to digestive issues and abdominal pain

Measures to prevent fast eating

Measures to Prevent Eating Too Quickly

• Feed Smaller Portions: Give your dog smaller amounts of food at a time.
• Divide Daily Meals: Split the daily food amount into several meals.
• Use Slow Feeder Dog Bowls: These bowls feature obstacles that slow down your dog’s eating, helping to prevent gulping and improve digestion
• Use Interactive Toys: Incorporate food-dispensing toys.
• Provide a Safe Eating Environment: Ensure your dog eats in a stress-free environment.

Eating too quickly can have negative effects on your dog’s health. It’s best to avoid fast eating whenever possible. If you’re struggling with your dog’s fast eating, please try the measures mentioned above

Summary

How did you find this information? Many dog owners struggle with their pets eating too quickly. However, it’s important to remember that dogs often eat quickly due to their natural instincts. It’s crucial for owners to implement effective measures to prevent fast eating, as this is key to maintaining their dog’s health.

When dogs are given toys, they usually play by shaking them around. While the intensity of this behavior varies among individuals, most dogs seem to enjoy shaking their toys. Is there a reason for this?

• Why Do Dogs Shake Toys
• They are relieving stress
• Shaking toys is a form of serious play

Why Do Dogs Shake Toys?

Dogs inherently love playing with toys, and when it’s their favorite one, they become even more excited. This excitement often leads them to shake the toy around. Why does this happen? The reason is that dogs briefly perceive the toy as prey.

Imagine that the toy, though inanimate, feels almost alive to the dog, which heightens their excitement. Essentially, dogs are indulging in the remnants of their hunting instincts. This results in the behavior of shaking the toy. While it may seem a bit wild, it’s important to note that dogs are seriously engaged in this activity, driven by their natural instincts

Mimicking Hunting?

When dogs shake their toys, they might be recalling their hunting instincts. After this moment passes, they often bring the toy to their designated spot and start playing with it for a while. This way of playing, where the toy is imagined as something else, is part of a dog’s instinct. It’s also likely that they derive pleasure from the act of shaking the toy.

If you interrupt this behavior by overly correcting them, it can disrupt their playtime. Since they are deeply engaged in their play, it’s best to allow them to enjoy it without interference. When dogs are playing, they should be allowed to follow their instincts and enjoy their activities freely

Relieving Stress

When dogs shake their toys and vocalize while playing, they are experiencing peak enjoyment. This behavior shows they are deeply engaged and enthusiastic. However, if they play too intensely, they might destroy the toy. It’s important to provide toys that are appropriately sized and durable for the dog

Even small dogs can be rough players and may quickly break their toys. Shaking the toy is a sign of their enjoyment and can also be a way for them to relieve stress. Allow them to play freely to a certain extent, as this is beneficial for their well-being

If the behavior of shaking the toy becomes excessive…

If the excitement becomes too intense, dogs may end up damaging furniture or chewing on other objects. It’s important not to intervene while they are simply shaking the toy. However, if their excitement escalates beyond that, it’s necessary to help them cool down.

You can often tell by observing the dog’s expression. When they are playing with their toy, their face is bright and happy. In contrast, when they are relieving stress, their expression is more serious. Being aware of these differences can help you better manage their playtime

Shaking a toy during playtime is serious play for dogs

When dogs shake their toys, it often combines their hunting instincts with their interest in the toy, creating a peak of enjoyment. This behavior is a sign that the dog is having an exceptionally good time playing with the toy. Understanding this aspect of your dog’s instincts helps explain why they play this way.

However, if the excitement becomes too intense, especially in small dogs, there is a risk of injuring their neck. While it’s fine to allow some level of excitement, if the play becomes excessive and prolonged, it’s important to intervene. Introducing a break with a treat or a pause in play can help manage their excitement and prevent potential injuries

Understanding a dog’s psychology can further deepen the bond between you and your pet

When you consider that the act of shaking a toy may be a remnant of their wild instincts, it becomes easier to understand a dog’s mental state during those moments. Sometimes, dogs simply need to shake their toys according to their instincts. As long as your dog is not in danger, watching over them with patience is a form of kindness. Dogs that love their toys will often shake them multiple times a day, so it’s important to offer warm support and understanding as they play

This time, we created a nose work ball (snuffle ball), an enrichment toy for dogs where they can search for food or treats hidden in the felt gaps, similar to a snuffle mat. It appears to be good for both physical and mental well-being, especially during the cold season when dogs are mostly indoors.

Feel free to experiment with different sizes and colors of felt to make a version that’s just right for your dog.

• Before You Start: Benefits of Playing with a Nose Work Ball (Snuffle Ball)
• Materials and Tools: Make a Snuffle Ball for Your Dog with Just Felt! Super Easy DIY
• How to Make 1/2: Cutting Circles from Felt – Creating a Nose Work Ball (Snuffle Ball) for Your Dog
• How to Make 2/2: Assembling Felt Circles into a Ball – Making a Snuffle Ball for Your Dog

Before You Start: Benefits of Playing with a Nose Work Ball (Snuffle Ball)

Nose work is a type of play that utilizes a dog’s sense of smell. It’s said that a dog’s sense of smell remains effective from puppyhood to old age.

This activity satisfies their instinctive desire to “hunt,” regardless of their age. It helps alleviate daily stress, provides exercise, prevents cognitive decline, and stimulates the brain.

It’s a great activity that both owners and dogs can enjoy together, whether indoors or outdoors, so it comes highly recommended!

Materials and Tools: Make a Snuffle Ball for Your Dog with Just Felt! Super Easy DIY

Right: Approximately 6 cm in diameter (made using a kitchen cloth)
Left: Approximately 9 cm in diameter

Materials:

• Felt

Tools:

• Needle
• Thread
• Scissors

How to Make 1/2: Cut Circles from Felt – Creating a Nose Work Ball (Snuffle Ball) for Your Dog

First, cut out 16 circles from the felt. Decide on the desired size of the finished ball, and cut out circles with a diameter corresponding to that size.

This time, we used a plate to create a template with a diameter of approximately 9 cm on cardstock and then cut out the circles

Using your preferred color combinations, create 16 circles as shown in the photo above

How to Make 2/2: Assemble the Felt Circles into a Ball – Making a Snuffle Ball for Your Dog

Fold the felt into quarters, thread the needle, and sew the pieces together to form a round shape

Fold each circle in half, and then fold it in half again to create a fan shape

Thread the needle slightly inward from the center of the fan shape

Fold the next circle in the same way and align it with the previous fan shape. When stitching, make sure the open sides of the fans alternate direction.

For a more polished look, try to avoid having adjacent felt colors overlap.

Once you’ve threaded all 16 felt pieces, return to the first felt piece and thread the needle around it again.

If you pull the first round too tightly, it will make it difficult to thread the needle for the second round, so leave a bit of slack

Once you’ve completed threading the second round, wrap the thread around the first felt piece, pull it tight, and tie a knot.

Finally, adjust the shape, and your snuffle ball is complete!

I immediately hid some treats in the felt gaps and gave the ball to my dog!

He’s been eagerly searching and playing with it

It’s quick to make, so definitely give it a try for your dog!

To prevent any risk of choking, be sure to play with your dog under your supervision

“Is my dog getting fat… Is this obesity?

Just like in humans, obesity is a major health concern for dogs. Managing your dog’s weight is crucial for their health, but many owners struggle with how to specifically address obesity.

In this article, we will explain the causes and types of obesity in dogs, as well as measures and prevention methods. We also provide a score to help you assess your dog’s level of obesity, so be sure to make use of it

Obesity in dogs primarily comes in two types:

Obesity in dogs is primarily divided into two types: ‘primary obesity’ and ‘secondary obesity.’ Let’s take a closer look at each type.

Primary obesity caused by overeating and similar behaviors

Primary obesity, also known as “simple obesity,” is caused by an excess of energy. It occurs when an excess of energy from overeating and lack of exercise is stored as fat.

Primary obesity arises from a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors, making its exact cause intricate.

As obesity worsens, the risk of various diseases increases. Some conditions commonly associated with obesity include:

• Joint diseases such as arthritis
• Respiratory and circulatory disorders
• Hypertension
• Pancreatitis
• Skin infections
• Reduced immunity (increased risk of cancer)

Secondary obesity, which is more likely to occur due to underlying medical conditions

Secondary obesity refers to obesity that occurs as a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Because secondary obesity is related to disorders or metabolic dysfunctions, proper treatment of the underlying condition is crucial.

Common conditions associated with secondary obesity include:

• Hypothyroidism
• Diabetes
• Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s syndrome)
• Insulinoma
• Gonadal dysfunction

Let’s check your dog’s level of obesity

There are two main types of obesity, and “primary obesity” can be prevented with daily adjustments. Therefore, it’s important to first assess your dog’s obesity.

One method for evaluating obesity is the “Body Condition Score (BCS).” Review the overview to help assess the current state of obesity.

What is the Body Condition Score (BCS)?

Dogs vary in body size by breed, making it difficult to define an ideal weight. To assess obesity, the Body Condition Score (BCS) is used.

BCS quantifies the level of fat accumulation, allowing you to evaluate your dog’s obesity based on appearance and touch.

Generally, smaller numbers indicate a leaner body, while larger numbers indicate more fat. Various methods exist for evaluating BCS, but here we introduce a 9-point scoring system.

Scores 1–3: Underweight (Thin)

Scores 1–3 correspond to “thin.”

Score 1:

• Ribs, lumbar spine, pelvis, and all bony protrusions are clearly visible from a distance.
• No detectable body fat.
• Muscularity is clearly reduced.

Score 2:

• Ribs, lumbar spine, and pelvis are easily visible.
• Body fat is not palpable.
• There is only minimal reduction in muscle mass.

Score 3:

• Ribs are easily palpable, and may be visible.
• Body fat is not palpable.
• Pelvis appears bony, and the waist is clearly tapered.

Scores 4–5: Ideal Body Condition

Scores 4–5 correspond to an “ideal body condition.”

Score 4:

• A slight amount of body fat covers the ribs, but the ribs are easily palpable.
• The waist taper is easily visible from above.
• The abdominal indentation is clearly noticeable.

Score 5:

• There is no excess body fat covering the ribs, which are easily palpable.
• The waist taper is visible behind the ribs from above, and the abdomen is tight.

Scores 6–9: Overweight (Fat)

Scores 6–9 correspond to an “overweight body condition.”

Score 6:

• Ribs are covered by a small amount of excess fat but can still be palpated.
• The waist taper is visible from above but not very pronounced.
• The abdominal indentation is clearly noticeable.

Score 7:

• Palpating the ribs is difficult but possible.
• Covered by significant fat.
• Noticeable fat deposits around the lumbar spine and base of the tail.
• The waist taper is almost or completely absent, and abdominal indentation may be present.

Score 8:

• Covered by excessive fat, making the ribs difficult to palpate or requiring considerable pressure to feel.
• Significant fat deposits around the lumbar spine and base of the tail.
• No visible waist taper or abdominal indentation; the abdomen may be significantly distended.

Score 9:

• Large fat deposits in the chest, spine, and base of the tail.
• No visible waist taper or abdominal indentation.
• Abdominal distension is apparent.

Measures and prevention methods for dog obesity

Managing obesity in dogs, like in humans, involves key aspects of diet and exercise. This section will cover strategies for obesity prevention and management from the perspectives of food and exercise.

[Food Measures] Reducing Meal Quantity and High-Calorie Treats

Reviewing the amount of food given is fundamental for managing obesity. Check if the current food quantity is suitable for your dog’s body condition. You can also consult a veterinarian to calculate the appropriate energy needs. If giving high-calorie commercial treats, reducing their quantity can be effective. Gradually adjust the frequency and amount of treats to avoid stress. Using a small amount of regular food as treats can also be beneficial.

[Food Measures] Reassessing the Food Being Given

A nutritionally balanced diet is essential for your dog’s health. Protein provides a greater sense of fullness compared to carbohydrates. By switching to a high-protein food, you can increase satiety and help manage obesity.

[Food Measures] Using a Slow Feeder Bowl

Switching to a slow feeder bowl can help manage your dog’s eating pace and prevent rapid consumption. Instead of abruptly altering your dog’s food amount, gradually introduce the slow feeder bowl to their routine. A slow feeder bowl is designed with obstacles or patterns that make eating more challenging, promoting slower and more mindful eating. This method helps reduce the risk of overeating and associated health issues, while also making mealtime more engaging for your dog.

[Food Measures] Dividing Meals and Increasing Frequency

Suddenly reducing food quantity can lead to feelings of hunger and stress in your dog. To avoid taking away the enjoyment of eating, consider dividing meals into multiple smaller portions. Reducing the amount per meal while increasing the number of meals can help manage weight without causing stress.

[Exercise Measures] Increasing Walk Duration and Frequency

In addition to dietary management, increasing exercise to boost energy expenditure is crucial for weight loss. Try increasing the number of walks and extending the duration on weekends. This will help increase energy expenditure and support weight loss.

[Exercise Measures] Increasing Exercise Intensity

Enhance exercise by incorporating toys during walks or choosing routes with inclines. Playing with balls or toys can also improve your bond with your dog. Opting for routes with hills or stairs will increase energy expenditure. Adjust activities based on your dog’s condition and preferences to effectively use up energy.

Summary：Manage Your Dog’s Weight with Obesity Prevention Measures!

Just like in humans, if your dog eats more or becomes less active, it is more likely to gain weight. Obesity not only decreases quality of life but also increases the risk of various health problems, so caution is needed.

To protect your dog’s health, it is important to consistently manage their diet and ensure they get regular exercis

Many people may have experienced their beloved dog suddenly vomiting even though it was eating the same food as usual. In fact, because a dog’s stomach and esophagus are aligned differently from humans, they are thought to be more prone to vomiting. However, repeated vomiting can also be a sign of illness. It’s important to understand the causes of vomiting, how to handle it, and when to visit a veterinary clinic, so you’re prepared and not panicked in an emergency.

Table of Contents

Why Did My Dog Vomit? Understanding Causes like Food and Illness!

• Causes Related to Illness or Stress
• Causes Related to Overeating or Foreign Object Ingestion
• Causes Related to Food Allergies or Digestive Problems
• Causes Related to Side Effects from Vaccinations, Spaying, or Antibiotics
• Causes Related to Heat (Estrus) and Potential Uterine Infection; Watch for Hard-to-Detect Pyometra!

Explanation of Vomit Color and Symptoms! Key Points for Post-Vomiting Observation

• Check the Color and Smell of the Vomit
• Carefully Monitor Your Dog’s Condition

When to Visit the Veterinary Clinic

• Repeated Vomiting, Diarrhea, or Vomiting Blood; Bring a Sample of the Vomit When Visiting

What to Feed Your Dog After Vomiting? How to Clean Up Vomit?

• Fast and Withhold Water as a Basic Approach; Watch for Dehydration!
• Use Pet-Safe Deodorizers or Baking Soda for Cleaning Vomit

Causes and Solutions for Vomiting in Senior Dogs

Summary

• Understanding Vomiting in Dogs

Why Did My Dog Vomit? Understanding Causes like Food and Illness!

Some dog owners may have experienced their dog suddenly vomiting while eating, leading to panic. Dog vomiting can sometimes be a temporary issue where the dog seems fine afterward, but it can also be caused by illness. First, let’s explain the possible causes of vomiting in dogs

Causes Related to Illness or Stress

When vomiting is caused by illness, it is important to be cautious. Diseases that are prone to causing vomiting include viral or bacterial infections, gastroenteritis, pancreatitis, intestinal obstruction, gastric torsion, nephritis, hepatitis, uremia, abdominal tumors or malignant lymphoma, kidney failure, and neurological disorders. Many of these conditions can be life-threatening, so it is crucial to closely observe whether any other symptoms are present.

Stress can also disrupt the autonomic nervous system, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms and making vomiting more likely. Prolonged stress can cause stomach ulcers, which may result in vomiting blood. Various factors such as lack of exercise, changes in the environment, and insufficient interaction with the owner can cause stress. Ensure you provide plenty of affection and check if your dog is showing signs of stress.

Additionally, motion sickness can cause vomiting. For dogs that are sensitive to travel, you may want to consult a veterinarian for anti-nausea medication and avoid feeding your dog before trips.

Causes Related to Overeating or Foreign Object Ingestion

Dogs may vomit as a natural response to certain conditions. For instance, vomiting can occur due to overeating, drinking too much water, or eating too quickly. This is a protective response by the body. Adjust the amount of food, increase meal frequency, and train your dog not to eat too quickly. Dogs may also vomit after eating grass during walks; this may help alleviate nausea or provide fiber. If it doesn’t happen frequently, it’s usually not a major concern.

Vomiting can also occur due to the ingestion of foreign objects such as toys. If the ingested object obstructs the exit of the stomach or causes an intestinal blockage, the dog may vomit and have diarrhea. Intestinal obstruction can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention.

Causes Related to Food Allergies or Digestive Problems

Food allergies can cause vomiting. Introducing new foods suddenly can shock the stomach and lead to vomiting. If the size or shape of the food doesn’t match the dog’s size or constitution, it can result in digestive issues and vomiting.

Excessive consumption of certain foods can lead to digestive problems or poisoning. For example, carrots, bananas, pineapples, melons, and dried fish are generally considered safe in moderation as they do not contain toxic substances like chocolate or onions. However, they can occasionally cause allergic reactions and vomiting. These foods are also high in fiber, which can lead to digestive issues and vomiting if consumed in large amounts or if swallowed whole. Ensure such foods are cut into small pieces or cooked to make them easier to digest.

Raw meat can contain bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli and parasites like Toxoplasma, which can cause food poisoning and result in vomiting and diarrhea. Additionally, if a dog eats spoiled food during walks, it can lead to food poisoning and vomiting.

Side Effects from Vaccinations, Spaying, or Antibiotics

Vomiting after receiving vaccinations or treatments can be a sign of side effects. Additionally, after spaying, antibiotics are often given to prevent infection, and these can also cause vomiting or diarrhea as a side effect.

Health Issues Related to Heat (Estrus); Watch for Hard-to-Detect Pyometra!

During heat (estrus), some dogs may show signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting. They may also develop pyometra, a condition that causes vomiting due to bacterial infection. This condition often involves discharge that resembles brownish pus from the vulva, which can be difficult to distinguish from normal estrus bleeding. Pyometra is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition, so if you notice symptoms such as vomiting, excessive thirst and urination, or decreased appetite, seek veterinary attention promptly.

Explanation of Vomit Color and Symptoms! Key Points for Post-Vomiting Observation

When your dog vomits, first carefully observe the vomit to determine if it contains undigested food or foreign objects. Additionally, it’s important to monitor what other symptoms your dog is showing.

Check the Color and Smell of the Vomit

■ Transparent with White Foam or Yellow/Green Vomiting clear liquid with foam or an odorless appearance can indicate the regurgitation of stomach acid or saliva. If the vomit is yellow or green, it suggests the presence of bile in the stomach acid, a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux (bile vomiting syndrome). This may be caused by stress or extreme hunger. If your dog seems fine and has no appetite issues after vomiting, you can monitor the situation.

To manage this, reduce the amount of food per meal and increase the number of meals per day. If you currently feed twice a day, add an extra meal before bedtime to make it three times a day, shortening the periods of hunger. If vomiting continues, consult a veterinarian.

■ Mixed with Blood, Pink or Brown If the vomit contains blood, it may be due to tumors or bleeding in the mouth, esophagus, or stomach. Fresh blood appears red, while older blood turns brown. Dark red or blackish-brown vomit could indicate bleeding from the mucosa. Pink vomit generally suggests a smaller amount of blood and may indicate inflammation in the esophagus or elsewhere. However, brown vomit could also be mixed with the color of dog food. If blood is present, it could be a sign of stomach ulcers or tumors, so seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

■ Odor of the Vomit If the vomit smells like feces, it is often due to coprophagia (eating feces). Ensure you promptly clean up feces and take measures to prevent this behavior. If the vomit has a fecal odor but your dog does not eat feces, it could indicate an intestinal blockage or other serious condition, so visit the veterinary clinic immediately.

Carefully Monitor Your Dog’s Condition

■ Repeated Vomiting Frequent vomiting in one day could be due to foreign object ingestion, infections, or gastroenteritis. There is also a risk of dehydration, so take your dog to the vet.

■ Lethargy and Weakness If your dog appears lethargic and weak after vomiting, it’s important to see a vet as soon as possible. If your dog is showing signs of abdominal pain, it could be pancreatitis, which often causes vomiting and diarrhea. Pancreatitis can lead to multi-organ failure or shock and can be fatal if not treated promptly. Immediate veterinary treatment is necessary.

■ Vomiting with Trembling

If your dog is trying to vomit but is trembling and unable to do so, it may be a sign of gastric torsion (bloat). Gastric torsion is a condition commonly affecting deep-chested breeds, especially large dogs like Great Danes and German Shepherds. It can be caused by eating too quickly, consuming a large amount of food, or vigorous exercise shortly after eating. A characteristic sign is white foam or clear mucus in the mouth, and your dog may only be able to vomit water. Gastric torsion leads to fermentation and gas accumulation in the stomach, causing blood flow issues, inflammation, and compression of surrounding organs. This condition often requires surgical intervention to correct, and it can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. Seek veterinary care immediately.

■ Vomiting Immediately After Eating

If the vomit consists mostly of undigested food, it may be considered “regurgitation” rather than true vomiting. This occurs when food is expelled before it reaches the stomach and is commonly seen shortly after eating. Frequent regurgitation could indicate esophageal diseases or foreign object ingestion. If accompanied by coughing or sneezing, foreign object ingestion is suspected. If you notice symptoms such as “vomiting after eating,” “vomiting after drinking water,” or “lethargy,” consult a veterinarian.

■ Abnormalities in Stool, Such as Diarrhea or Blood

Soft stools with more water content than usual may be caused by overeating, consuming unfamiliar foods, or temporary stress, which can strain the intestines. Provide water and avoid forcing food to give the intestines a chance to rest. Repeated vomiting accompanied by diarrhea could indicate gastrointestinal inflammation, colitis, pancreatitis, or viral infections. Common viral infections associated with vomiting and diarrhea include canine parvovirus, canine coronavirus enteritis, and leptospirosis. Other infections such as canine distemper and infectious canine hepatitis can also cause fever and diarrhea.

Unvaccinated dogs are particularly at risk for canine parvovirus infection, which can cause vomiting and bloody diarrhea, potentially leading to death within 1-2 days if untreated. Seek immediate veterinary attention and appropriate treatment from a veterinarian.

When to See a Veterinarian: Guidelines for Vomiting

It can be challenging to decide whether to take your dog to the vet when they are vomiting. Here are some guidelines to help you determine when a veterinary visit is necessary.

If your dog is vomiting repeatedly, has diarrhea, or if the vomit contains blood and your dog appears lethargic, you should take them to the veterinarian immediately. If your dog is vomiting just from drinking water, it may indicate a serious condition such as gastric torsion or gastrointestinal obstruction, which can be life-threatening. Prompt veterinary attention is crucial.

When visiting the vet, bring the vomit or photos of it to help the vet with the diagnosis. Additionally, note the time of eating and vomiting, the frequency of vomiting, and the smell of the vomit, as these details can aid in identifying the underlying issue.

What to Feed Your Dog After Vomiting? How to Clean Up Vomit

After your dog has vomited, you may wonder if it’s okay to resume their usual food and water routine. Here’s some guidance on how to handle their diet and clean up the vomit.

Fasting and Hydration: Essential Guidelines. Watch for Dehydration!

Immediately after vomiting, it’s important to withhold food and water, as the stomach may not be able to handle them. Monitor for signs of dehydration and avoid giving food or water for about half a day to a full day. If your dog is very thirsty, you can offer a few ice cubes.

Once vomiting has subsided, start by giving small amounts of water. If your dog can keep the water down, gradually increase the amount. When they can tolerate water without issues, you can reintroduce food. Begin with easily digestible food in small amounts and monitor their response. It’s also helpful to soften dry food by adding water. For the first 2-3 days, feed smaller amounts divided into 3-4 meals and slowly return to their normal feeding routine if they are eating well. If vomiting persists despite fasting and withholding water, or if your dog refuses food, veterinary consultation is necessary.

If diarrhea is also present, there is a risk of dehydration, so fluid intake is crucial. However, since certain treatments, such as intravenous fluids, may be required, seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Additionally, if there is blood in the vomit, or if your dog is trembling and lethargic, withholding food and water may prevent worsening of the condition. Consult a veterinarian promptly.

Cleaning Up Vomit: Using Pet-Safe Deodorizers and Baking Soda

To clean up vomit, start by using a flat tool, such as a spatula, to scoop up most of the solid and liquid material. If the surface is non-absorbent, like hardwood or tile, you can cover the area with a pet pad and lift it up to remove the vomit. After removing the vomit, use a damp cloth to wipe up any remaining liquid. Then, apply a neutral or mild alkaline cleaner to the cloth and wipe the area again. Make sure to thoroughly rinse and remove any soap residue.

If you’re concerned about odors, spray a pet-safe deodorizer or cleaning spray on the area. Using products specifically designed for pets ensures safety if your dog licks the area. For carpets or other materials where odors are harder to remove, use baking soda. Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 500 ml of water to create a baking soda solution. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and apply it liberally to the affected area. Blot up the moisture with paper towels while repeating the spraying. Once the smell is gone, allow the area to dry.

If baking soda solution doesn’t fully eliminate the odor, sprinkle baking soda powder directly onto the area. Cover it with a towel and leave it for half a day to a full day to allow the baking soda to absorb the smell. Afterward, vacuum up the baking soda and let the area dry completely. Sunlight can also help in drying and removing odors.

Causes and Solutions for Vomiting in Senior Dogs

Senior dogs often experience a decrease in their ability to chew, swallow, and digest food, which can lead to vomiting after meals. To make eating easier, consider adjusting the form and softness of their food. Even if a particular food has been fine in the past, age-related changes can lead to vomiting. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian and review your dog’s diet.

For senior dogs that are bedridden, they may vomit because they are unable to swallow properly. During and after meals, keep their head elevated. Also, ensure they are given appropriate fluids to help move food through the stomach. Avoid rolling them immediately after eating, as this can increase the risk of gastric torsion. With weakened abdominal muscles and digestive systems, be cautious about moving them.

Additionally, senior dogs have reduced immunity to diseases. If your dog appears lethargic or shows other unusual symptoms after vomiting, seek veterinary care promptly.

Summary

Vomiting in dogs can range from mild cases that can be monitored over time to severe situations that require immediate intervention to prevent serious harm. By observing the color of the vomit and the symptoms following the vomiting, you can gauge the urgency of the situation to some extent. When visiting the veterinarian, providing an accurate description of the vomiting episode can lead to prompt and effective treatment.

The key is to calmly observe your dog’s condition and address the situation without panic. If you have any concerns, avoid self-diagnosis and seek advice from your trusted veterinary clinic.

Puppies are curious by nature. They learn about their world by sniffing, touching, playing, and sometimes chewing. Chewing on bones or toys is a natural pleasure and a necessary activity for dogs. Puppy chewing is a normal behavior, and it can be redirected into appropriate habits through training before it becomes problematic. Here, we introduce methods for teaching proper chewing habits.

What should you let them chew on?

Choosing the Right Toys: Provide your puppy with toys that offer different textures for chewing. Ideal chew toys should be appealing to the dog, durable enough not to break easily, and made of safe materials in case they are swallowed. Toys that allow your puppy to extract treats or biscuits can also be effective for teaching chewing habits.

Redirecting Attention: If your puppy picks up something that isn’t its own, remove it from its mouth and guide them towards their own toy. Praise them gently when they choose their own toy voluntarily.

Rotate Toys: Both puppies and adult dogs are interested in new toys. Keep them engaged by rotating different types of chew toys to prevent boredom. When a specific toy is not used for a few weeks, it can reignite excitement when reintroduced. Additionally, cleaning toys to remove odors can also make them seem new again.

Teach Fetch and Find Games: Teaching fun games like “fetch” or “find it” can help focus your puppy’s attention on their toys. Have them fetch their favorite ball or hide toys for them to find, and reward and praise them when they perform well. These games are excellent for teaching new behaviors and manners while keeping both you and your puppy entertained.

Teach What Not to Chew: To prevent destructive chewing habits, review your home environment to ensure dangerous items are out of reach. Store items that might attract your puppy, like socks, clothes, children’s toys, slippers, shoes, tissues, and open trash cans, in safe places.

Always Supervise: Until your puppy is accustomed to their environment, closely supervise them to prevent them from chewing on inappropriate items. If you can’t watch them, use a crate or a safe area. Using a leash for close supervision or providing a designated dog room when you’re away can also help ensure their safety.

Training to Teach Proper Chewing Habits

Teach “Leave it” and “Give”:

In addition to setting up your environment with various types of chew toys, teach your dog two important commands: “Leave it” and “Give.” “Leave it” is used when the dog tries to pick up something dangerous or inappropriate to chew, while “Give” is used when you want the dog to drop something they’ve picked up. Using these commands correctly will make learning enjoyable for your dog and help them understand which toys are theirs and which items are not. Many puppy schools and training classes teach how to use these commands effectively.

Don’t Get Angry When Mistakes Happen:

If your dog chews on something they shouldn’t, avoid chasing, scolding harshly, or administering physical punishment. Reacting with anger may cause your dog to learn to chew things secretly or hide from you. Many owners mistakenly believe that these behaviors indicate the dog understands they’ve done something wrong. However, what often happens is the dog learns to avoid chewing in front of you or to hide, as a way to escape punishment. Therefore, to teach proper chewing habits, it’s more effective to observe your dog’s behavior, redirect their attention, and use reward-based training.