Dog Vomiting vs Regurgitation 2025: How to Tell & What to Do 🐶✨

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Seeing your dog bring something back up is alarming. But did they vomit—or regurgitate? As a veterinarian, I can tell you the difference matters, and it can help you catch the cause faster and avoid unnecessary treatment.

I’m Dr. Duncan Houston, founder of Ask A Vet. In this guide, I’ll explain how to tell the difference between vomiting and regurgitation, what causes each, and what you should do next.

🆚 Vomiting vs Regurgitation – What’s the Difference?

Vomiting

• Active process – abdominal heaving, retching
• Often preceded by nausea (drooling, licking lips)
• Contents usually digested: bile, food, foam

Regurgitation

• Passive – no warning or effort
• Food is expelled undigested, sometimes shaped like the esophagus
• Happens minutes to hours after eating

🔍 Common Causes of Vomiting

• Dietary indiscretion (eating garbage, new food)
• Parasites
• Viral infections (parvo, distemper)
• Pancreatitis
• Toxins or medications
• Gastritis or ulcers

🔍 Common Causes of Regurgitation

• Eating too quickly
• Congenital megaesophagus
• Foreign body stuck in the esophagus
• Neurological issues affecting swallowing
• Esophagitis or strictures

🩺 When to See a Vet Immediately

• Blood in vomit or regurgitated material
• Weakness, collapse, or dehydration
• Repeated vomiting or regurgitation in one day
• Pain when swallowing or signs of choking
• Vomiting in a puppy or senior dog

🧪 How Vets Diagnose the Problem

• Physical exam and history
• Fecal testing (for parasites)
• X-rays to check for foreign bodies or megaesophagus
• Bloodwork to check for organ issues or infections
• Endoscopy (camera scope) if chronic or severe

💊 Treatment Options

For Vomiting:

• Antiemetics like Cerenia or Metoclopramide
• GI diet or bland home-cooked food
• Fluids for dehydration
• Probiotics or parasite treatment

For Regurgitation:

• Elevated feeding (using a raised bowl or Bailey chair)
• Thickened liquids or small meals
• Treat underlying esophageal disorders

🏠 Home Care Tips

• Feed bland diet: boiled chicken & rice for 24–48 hours (vomiting only)
• Smaller meals more often
• Withhold food 6–12 hours if vomiting, then reintroduce gradually
• Don’t give OTC human meds unless advised

🔗 Helpful Woopf Products

• Dual Pocket Dispenser – Carry poop bags + wipes during stomach upsets
• Explorer Harness – Easier control for dogs prone to vomiting during walks

📋 Summary Excerpt

Is your dog vomiting or regurgitating? A vet explains the difference, what it means for their health, and when to worry—or act fast.

❓ FAQs

• Q: What’s the difference between vomiting and regurgitation?
  A: Vomiting involves effort and digested contents. Regurgitation is passive and usually undigested.
• Q: Is vomiting once a big deal?
  A: Not always. But if it recurs, is paired with lethargy or blood, contact your vet.
• Q: Can I give my dog Pepto or human meds?
  A: No—many human medications are dangerous for dogs. Always consult a vet first.