When a dog is under the weather, it is hard to know what to do. Some illnesses are mild and settle with rest. Others can turn serious quickly. This guide covers what most dogs need while they are unwell, and the signs that mean you should stop treating things at home and call a veterinarian.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis. If you are worried about your dog, a phone call to your vet is always reasonable.
First: home care or a vet visit?
Home care is generally only appropriate for a dog that is still fairly alert, is not getting worse, and has mild signs such as a single bout of soft stool or a day of lower appetite. If you are unsure, call your vet’s office and describe what you are seeing. Many clinics will tell you whether to come in.
Puppies, senior dogs, small dogs, and dogs with existing health conditions can deteriorate faster, so it is wise to involve a vet earlier for them.
Signs that need a vet promptly
Contact a vet the same day, or go to an emergency clinic, if you see any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing, or breathing that looks labored
- Collapse, extreme weakness, or being unable to stand
- Repeated vomiting, or vomiting with blood
- Diarrhea that is bloody, black, or will not stop (see when to see a vet for dog diarrhea)
- A swollen, hard, or painful belly, or unproductive retching
- Pale, white, or very dry gums
- Seizures
- Not eating or drinking for more than a day
- Straining to urinate or not urinating
- Possible poisoning or swallowing something that should not be eaten
- Symptoms that are getting worse rather than better
Dogs Trust and other veterinary charities publish longer lists of signs to watch for, and it is worth keeping one handy. When in doubt, call.
Set up a calm recovery space
Choose a quiet, warm, draft-free spot with a soft bed, away from household traffic and loud noise. Keep water within easy reach. If your dog has diarrhea or vomiting, easy-to-clean bedding makes life simpler for both of you.
Limit activity. Short, calm trips outside to relieve themselves are usually enough. Skip play, long walks, and dog parks until your vet says it is fine.
Keep an eye on symptoms
Notes help your vet more than memory does. Write down:
- When the symptoms started and whether they are changing
- How often your dog vomits or has diarrhea, and what it looks like
- How much your dog is eating and drinking
- How often they urinate
- Energy level and behavior
- Anything they might have eaten, chewed, or been exposed to
A quick phone photo of unusual stool or vomit can also be useful to show a vet.
Water and hydration
Fluid loss from vomiting, diarrhea, or fever can add up. Keep fresh water available at all times. If your dog is reluctant to drink, you can try offering small amounts more often, or a little ice to lick. Our guides on how to keep a sick dog hydrated and how to hydrate a dog go through signs of dehydration and gentle ways to encourage drinking.
If your dog cannot keep water down, or shows signs of dehydration such as dry or sticky gums, sunken eyes, or marked lethargy, they need veterinary care rather than more home remedies.
Feeding a sick dog
For a mild stomach upset, many vets suggest a short, gentle diet of plain, easily digested food in small portions. Your vet may suggest a short rest from food first, but this is not right for every dog, particularly puppies, small dogs, and dogs with conditions like diabetes. Ask before withholding food.
See our guide to food for sick dogs for what is usually used, what to avoid, and how to return to normal food. If a dog is refusing food altogether for more than a day, that is a reason to call the vet.
What not to give at home
- Human medications. Common painkillers and cold medicines can be dangerous to dogs. Do not give any medication, supplement, or antihistamine without asking your vet first.
- Hydrogen peroxide. It is often mentioned online for inducing vomiting, but it can do harm, and it should only ever be used if a vet or poison helpline tells you to. See hydrogen peroxide on dogs.
- Rich or seasoned food. Fatty scraps, seasoned meat, and dairy can make an upset stomach worse.
- Leftover prescriptions. Medication prescribed for another pet or an earlier illness may not be appropriate now.
Shaking, panting, and clinging
Dogs who are unwell often pant, tremble, or stay close to their owners. These can be signs of pain, fever, nausea, or anxiety, and they are not specific to one condition. If the shaking or heavy panting is new, severe, or comes with other signs on the list above, call your vet. Stay calm, keep the room quiet, and avoid forcing food, water, or handling if your dog seems to be in pain.
Protect other pets and people
If you do not know what is making your dog sick, it is sensible to keep them separate from other pets until you hear from your vet, especially if there is vomiting, diarrhea, or coughing. Wash your hands after handling your dog, their bowls, and their bedding, and clean up accidents promptly. Tell the clinic about any contagious possibilities before you arrive so they can plan for it.
Comfort and routine
Keep things low-key and predictable. Offer gentle company, but let your dog rest. Follow your vet’s instructions for any medication exactly, and finish the course if one is prescribed. Return to normal activity and food gradually, and book a follow-up if your vet recommends one.
Frequently asked questions
Can I give my sick dog human medicine?
Generally no. Several common human medicines are harmful to dogs. Ask your vet before giving anything.
How long should I wait before calling the vet?
For mild signs in an otherwise bright adult dog, waiting a day while you monitor is often reasonable, but any of the warning signs above mean call now. Puppies, seniors, and dogs with health conditions should be seen sooner.
What should I feed a dog after vomiting?
Usually nothing solid for a short period if your vet agrees, then small amounts of plain, bland food. See our guide to food for sick dogs.
My dog has a runny nose. Is that serious?
Often it is mild, but the color of the discharge and other signs matter. See dog nose dripping: causes and treatment.