Dog Throwing Up and Shaking: Causes, Symptoms & Vet Advice

Introduction: When Your Dog's Body Sends an SOS

One of the most distressing sights for any dog owner is watching their beloved pet throw up and tremble uncontrollably. It’s a heart-wrenching moment filled with questions: Is it something they ate? Is this an emergency? Should I rush to the vet?

This combination of symptoms—vomiting and shaking—can signal a broad spectrum of issues. Sometimes it’s a temporary digestive upset; other times, it’s the early warning of a more serious medical condition that demands immediate attention.

In this in-depth, SEO-optimized guide, we’ll explore what it means when your dog is vomiting and shaking, break down possible causes, go over red flags to watch for, and provide actionable vet-approved steps to ensure your furry friend gets the care they need. Whether you searched for “dog throwing up and shaking but acting normal” or “my dog is vomiting and trembling,” you’ve landed in the right place.

Common Causes of Vomiting and Shaking in Dogs

1. Gastrointestinal Upset

The most straightforward cause of vomiting and shaking is a gastrointestinal issue. Dogs can experience upset stomachs for many reasons:

• Eating something they shouldn't: Garbage, spoiled food, or toxic plants.
• Sudden diet changes: Switching foods without a transition period.
• Food intolerances or allergies: Some dogs react to grains, proteins, or preservatives.

When the digestive tract is inflamed, your dog may throw up as a way of purging. Shaking could accompany this due to pain, discomfort, or stress.

2. Toxin Ingestion (Poisoning)

One of the most dangerous reasons for a dog to vomit and shake simultaneously is toxin exposure. Common toxins include:

• Chocolate
• Grapes and raisins
• Xylitol (a sweetener in sugar-free gum)
• Household cleaners
• Rodenticides (rat poison)

Ingestion of these substances requires immediate veterinary intervention. Symptoms may include vomiting, drooling, tremors, seizures, or collapse.

3. Canine Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, often causes vomiting, abdominal pain, and shaking. This condition can be acute or chronic and is usually triggered by fatty foods, certain medications, or underlying diseases.

Signs include:

• Vomiting multiple times a day
• Shaking or tremors
• Loss of appetite
• Hunched posture
• Lethargy

4. Fever or Infection

Systemic infections can trigger a fever, which often causes both vomiting and shaking. Infections might stem from viruses, bacteria, or parasites.

Signs of infection include:

• High body temperature
• Warm, dry nose
• Weakness or depression
• Loss of interest in food or water

5. Pain or Injury

Dogs experiencing internal pain or injury may vomit due to stress or shock. Shaking is a common reaction to pain, especially if the dog is trying to guard or protect a certain area of its body.

Look for signs such as limping, yelping when touched, or avoiding movement.

6. Motion Sickness

Some dogs, especially puppies, are prone to motion sickness. A car ride or even a boat trip can trigger nausea followed by vomiting and trembling.

7. Heatstroke

In warm weather, heatstroke becomes a serious risk. Dogs cool themselves by panting, but when that’s not enough, their body temperature rises dangerously. This leads to:

• Excessive panting
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Muscle tremors or seizures
• Collapse

This is an emergency. Move your dog to a cool area and contact your vet immediately.

Red Flags: When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Help

It’s tempting to wait and see if symptoms resolve, but hesitation can be dangerous. Call your vet or emergency clinic if your dog:

• Vomits more than once in a few hours
• Cannot hold down water or food
• Appears confused, disoriented, or collapses
• Has bloody vomit or diarrhea
• Shakes uncontrollably for more than a few minutes
• Shows signs of severe pain or distress

Diagnosis: How Vets Determine the Cause

When you bring your dog to the vet for vomiting and shaking, expect a combination of the following diagnostic steps:

• Physical exam: Checking the abdomen, gums, hydration, and pain response.
• Bloodwork: Looking for signs of infection, pancreatitis, dehydration, or toxin exposure.
• Urinalysis: To evaluate kidney function or urinary tract infections.
• X-rays or ultrasound: To detect blockages, inflammation, or internal bleeding.
• Fecal test: To check for parasites or bacterial overgrowth.

Treatment Options Based on Diagnosis

1. Mild Cases (Dietary Upset)

• Bland diet (boiled chicken and rice)
• Antiemetics (anti-vomiting medications)
• Probiotics or GI-soothing supplements

2. Infections

• Antibiotics or antivirals
• Fluids to prevent dehydration
• Pain relief and monitoring

3. Pancreatitis or Organ Issues

• Hospitalization and IV fluids
• Strict dietary control
• Anti-inflammatory drugs

4. Toxin Exposure

• Inducing vomiting (only if advised)
• Activated charcoal
• Antidotes if available (e.g., Vitamin K for rat poison)
• Emergency supportive care

Home Care and Monitoring

If your vet confirms the issue is minor, you may be advised to care for your dog at home. Follow these steps:

• Withhold food for 12 hours (water still allowed)
• Offer small meals of bland food
• Monitor water intake
• Watch for signs of improvement or worsening

Prevention Tips to Avoid Future Episodes

• Store household chemicals and foods safely
• Gradually transition between dog foods
• Use parasite prevention
• Supervise outdoor time to prevent eating unknown objects
• Schedule regular vet checkups

Beyond the Symptoms: Understanding Your Dog's Behavior

Vomiting and shaking are more than just symptoms—they're communication. By paying attention to your dog’s body language, habits, and subtle changes, you can catch health issues early and act fast.

Always document when symptoms begin, how long they last, and what your dog ate or did beforehand. This helps vets pinpoint the cause faster.

Peace of Mind: What You Can Do Today

• Prepare an emergency pet kit with vet info, medications, and contact numbers
• Learn basic pet first aid (including CPR)
• Know your dog’s normal behavior and appetite patterns

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Can a dog vomit from anxiety?

Yes, anxiety can trigger nausea and vomiting in some dogs. It’s especially common during thunderstorms, fireworks, or vet visits.

Why is my dog shaking and vomiting but still playful?

It could be a mild gastrointestinal upset or motion sickness. However, if symptoms persist, it’s best to consult a vet to rule out serious issues.

What home remedy can I give my dog for vomiting?

A bland diet (boiled chicken and rice) and rest may help. But never give human medications without vet approval, as many are toxic to dogs.

Should I induce vomiting if my dog ate something toxic?

Only under direct veterinary advice. In some cases (like sharp objects or caustic substances), inducing vomiting can do more harm than good.

How can I tell if my dog is in pain?

Signs of pain include shaking, whining, hiding, reduced appetite, aggressive behavior, or licking a specific body part repeatedly.

Final Thoughts: When In Doubt, Call the Vet

Your dog’s health is priceless. While not every episode of vomiting and shaking signals an emergency, some do. Err on the side of caution. When your gut tells you something isn’t right—listen.

By staying observant and informed, you become your dog’s first line of defense. Bookmark this article, share it with fellow dog parents, and keep your vet on speed dial. A few quick actions today could save your dog’s life tomorrow.