When most dog owners see their pet eating their own vomit, they may become disgusted and think it’s a nasty habit.
However, there is actually a reason why dogs eat their vomit and it’s not as bad as it seems.
Your dog is not freaked out by the thought of eating his own vomit as it’s perfectly normal for a dog to do this. Vomit is a food source and mothers will often throw up food for puppies to eat. The edible aspect is also why your dog will try to eat other dog’s vomit too.
Is it bad for a dog to eat his own vomit?
If your dog is regularly regurgitating his food and eating it then you might want to get him checked over at your vet’s to make sure that there is nothing amiss.
In normal, day to day life, dogs do not throw up very often, so, if your dog does have the odd moment of sickness and then eats it, it is unlikely to cause him any problems.
Is it bad if my dog eats another dog’s vomit?
If you are out walking your dog and he comes across another dog’s vomit, it is best to stop him from eating it.
Other dogs’ vomit could contain things that are not good for your dog such as diseases, parasites or toxins.
So, although your dog may think it’s a tasty treat, it is best to stop him from eating other dogs’ vomit.
Should I let my dog eat his own vomit?
We have established that there is nothing particularly wrong with your dog eating his own vomit and it is actually quite normal behaviour.
However, that does not mean that you should encourage it or let him do it all the time.
If your dog is sick, then it is best to clear up the vomit and stop him from eating it.
Often you will not know why your dog has vomited in the first place so it’s always a good idea to stop him from eating the things that has thrown up.
Why do dogs vomit?
There are a number of reasons why your dog may have vomited.
He could have eaten something which has disagreed with him and his body has expelled it by being sick.
He may have simply eaten his food too quickly and gulped it down which can make him throw up.
Drinking too quickly can irritate his stomach making him sick or swimming and playing in the sea can result in a vomiting episode.
Or, he may be car sick if you have taken him out for a drive.
He could be unwell.
Whatever the reason, if you are concerned or unable to work out why your dog has been sick, you should get the advice of your vet.
Your pet may be unwell and need treatment.
Final Words
There is nothing particularly wrong with dogs eating their own vomit and it is actually quite normal behaviour.
However, you should not encourage it and if your dog is sick, then it is best to clear up the vomit and stop him from eating it.
Other dogs’ vomit could contain things that are not good for your dog such as diseases, parasites or toxins so if you are out walking your dog and he comes across another dog’s vomit, it is best to stop him from eating it.
If you are concerned about your dog’s vomiting or are unable to work out why your dog has been sick, you should get the advice of your vet as your pet may be unwell and need treatment.
