Your dog may be heaving and gagging for a variety of reasons. Common causes of gagging and dry heaving in dogs include irritation from dust or smoke in the air, inhaled bits of food, a foreign object lodged in the esophagus or airways, a growth in the back of the throat, or an obstruction in the throat caused by something caught in it. If your dog is displaying these symptoms, it is important to have them seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Why is my dog heaving but not throwing up?
There are several possible reasons why your dog may be heaving but not throwing up. These include foreign objects caught in the throat, upper respiratory infections, Kennel Cough, Tonsillitis, Gastric Ulcers, Pancreatitis, Food Allergies, Motion Sickness, and even some types of cancer. It is best to take your dog to a vet to determine the cause of the heaving and get the appropriate treatment.
Why does my dog keep acting like he is going to throw up?
It is possible that your dog is suffering from an upset stomach due to eating something that has upset his stomach, or he may have an infection such as kennel cough, which can cause coughing and gagging without anything coming up. Other possible causes include allergies, gastric torsion, or megaesophagus. If your dog is continuing to act like he is going to throw up, it is best to see a vet to get a diagnosis and proper treatment.
When should I be concerned about my dogs dry heaves?
If your dog is dry heaving frequently, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue. Some of the signs that could indicate a more serious condition include hard or swollen abdomen, excessive licking of lips or drooling, pale gums, labored breathing, or inability to keep food down. If your dog is exhibiting any of these signs, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible.
How do you treat dry heaving in dogs?
Treating dry heaving in dogs usually involves addressing the underlying cause. If the dry heaving is caused by an infection, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics. If the cause is a foreign object caught in the throat, the object may need to be surgically removed. In some cases, anti-nausea medications may be prescribed to help reduce the symptoms of dry heaving. Additionally, providing smaller, more frequent meals may help prevent bloat, which can also cause dry heaving.