Watching your dog shake and vomit can be a distressing experience. You want to help, but it’s hard to know what’s causing these symptoms or whether it’s something serious. Shaking and vomiting can range from mild and temporary to signs of more severe underlying issues. In this post, we’ll walk you through the possible causes, natural remedies, and preventative measures, so you know when to manage it at home and when it’s time to seek veterinary care.
Possible Causes of Shaking and Vomiting in Dogs
Understanding what’s causing your dog to shake and vomit is the first step to addressing the issue. Several factors, from diet to health conditions, could be behind these symptoms.
1. Gastrointestinal Issues
The most common cause of vomiting is related to the digestive system. Your dog may have eaten something that doesn’t agree with their stomach or food that has gone bad. Sudden changes in diet or food allergies can also lead to gastrointestinal problems, resulting in vomiting and sometimes shaking due to discomfort.
- Diet Changes: A sudden change in your dog’s food can cause stomach upset. Transitioning to a new diet gradually over a week is best.
- Food Allergies: Dogs may develop sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients, leading to gastrointestinal distress.
- Spoiled Food: If your dog eats food that’s expired or has been improperly stored, it could result in vomiting.
Prevention Tip: Stick to a stable diet with high-quality, natural dog food. When transitioning to new food, do so gradually by mixing the old and new food over several days.
2. Toxin Exposure
Dogs are curious by nature and can ingest harmful substances unintentionally. Many household items—such as cleaning supplies, human medications, certain plants, or even some human foods—are toxic to dogs.
- Household Chemicals: Cleaners, detergents, and other chemicals are common culprits.
- Plants: Some plants, like lilies, are highly toxic to dogs if ingested.
- Human Medications: Drugs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can cause serious harm.
Prevention Tip: Keep all potential toxins out of reach. Use eco-friendly, pet-safe cleaning products that minimize the risk of poisoning.
3. Stress and Anxiety
Dogs can shake and vomit when they are stressed or anxious. Situational stress—such as loud noises (thunderstorms or fireworks), separation anxiety, or car rides—can cause physical symptoms like nausea and trembling.
Prevention Tip: For dogs prone to anxiety, create a calm environment. Consider using natural calming aids such as pheromone sprays or supplements like CBD oil (consult your vet first).
4. Infections or Diseases
Serious health conditions, such as infections, can also result in shaking and vomiting.
- Parvovirus: This highly contagious viral infection causes severe vomiting and shaking. It’s common in puppies and unvaccinated dogs.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can lead to vomiting, shaking, and abdominal pain.
- Kidney or Liver Disease: These conditions often cause vomiting as toxins build up in the body, and shaking may occur due to pain or discomfort.
Prevention Tip: Regular vet checkups and vaccinations can help prevent serious infections like parvovirus. Keep an eye on your dog’s overall health, especially as they age.
5. Pain or Injury
If your dog is experiencing pain, whether from a muscle strain, arthritis, or an internal issue, they might shake and vomit due to the stress of the pain. Pay attention to any limping, changes in movement, or vocalization, as these could point to physical injury.
Prevention Tip: Prevent injuries by maintaining a healthy weight and using eco-friendly pet products like natural joint supplements.
6. Hypoglycemia
Low blood sugar, particularly in small breeds like Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, can cause shaking, weakness, and vomiting. This condition requires immediate attention to prevent further complications.
Prevention Tip: Ensure small breeds get regular, well-balanced meals to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
What to Do When Your Dog Is Shaking and Vomiting
If you notice your dog shaking and vomiting, the first step is to assess the situation. Here’s how you can respond effectively:
1. Assess the Situation
Look around to see if your dog might have ingested something toxic or if there’s any visible injury. Check for other signs, such as diarrhea, lethargy, or bloating. These symptoms can give you clues as to what’s wrong.
2. Monitor Symptoms
Keep track of how long your dog has been vomiting and shaking. If it’s a one-time occurrence, it may pass quickly. However, if it persists for more than 24 hours, or if your dog vomits repeatedly, it’s time to contact a vet.
3. Offer Water
Dehydration can set in quickly if your dog is vomiting frequently. Encourage your dog to drink water in small amounts, but do not allow them to gulp down large quantities at once, as this could lead to further vomiting.
4. Natural Remedies
If the vomiting is mild and your dog is otherwise healthy, you can try natural remedies to soothe their stomach, but only after consulting with your vet.
- Ginger: Ginger is a natural anti-nausea remedy that can calm an upset stomach. You can offer a small amount of ginger tea or a ginger capsule formulated for dogs.
- Pumpkin: Plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is a good source of fiber and can help regulate digestion.
- Bone Broth: Offering a small amount of warm, unsalted bone broth can help keep your dog hydrated and soothe their stomach.
5. When to See a Vet
If your dog’s vomiting and shaking persist or worsen, or if you notice additional symptoms like diarrhea, blood in vomit, or extreme lethargy, seek immediate veterinary care. Some causes, like toxin ingestion or serious infections, require urgent treatment.
Preventing Future Episodes
Once your dog is feeling better, take steps to prevent future episodes of shaking and vomiting. Prevention is the key to long-term health.
1. Stick to a Stable Diet
Dogs with sensitive stomachs benefit from a stable diet. Avoid sudden changes in food, and ensure that treats and table scraps are kept to a minimum. Opt for high-quality, natural dog food that’s free from artificial additives.
2. Keep Toxins Out of Reach
Prevention is easier than treating accidental ingestion. Ensure that all household chemicals, medications, and toxic plants are safely stored out of your dog’s reach. Choose eco-friendly, pet-safe cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals around your home.
3. Use Eco-Friendly Cleaners
Conventional household cleaners often contain chemicals that can be toxic to pets. Switching to eco-friendly, biodegradable cleaning products can reduce the risk of accidental poisoning while being gentler on the environment.
4. Manage Stress Levels
For dogs prone to anxiety, it’s important to manage their stress. Natural calming aids, such as pheromone diffusers or herbal supplements, can help. Create a calming environment for your dog and establish a routine that minimizes stress triggers.
Conclusion
Shaking and vomiting can be alarming, but understanding the possible causes allows you to take the right action. From gastrointestinal issues to stress, these symptoms can often be managed with simple remedies and careful monitoring. However, in more serious cases, prompt veterinary attention is essential. By sticking to a stable diet, using eco-conscious products, and maintaining a safe environment, you can help prevent these issues from occurring in the future. Taking sustainable, natural steps not only benefits your dog’s health but also supports eco-friendly pet care practices.
