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Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 8 months old | 65 lbs
My dog is a very happy and energetic dog, but sometimes he gets very lethargic and a few times he has shaken very badly and then throws up afterwards. Would could cause this?
3 Answers

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 27th, 2018
Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on April 23rd, 2020
I hate to hear your pup is not feeling good! Just like people, there are many conditions that can make pets vomit. This could range from bacterial over growth to intestinal blockage.
I am worried if you are seeing that Atlas is shaky. That makes me concerned that this may not be a simple cause of vomiting. You may try to slowly walk him around the house. Offer him something tasty liked canned dog food, white meat chicken or some dog treats. If he is still shaky or lethargic after 10 minutes, I would be concerned something serious is going on and I recommend to have him examined immediately. Also, it's never wrong to have him checked out to be safe.
Any pet vomiting beyond 24 hours, vomiting multiple times, not drinking water or acting very lethargic should be examined by the veterinarian to be safe. Here is some additional information about vomiting:
https://www.petcoach.co/article/vomiting-in-dogs/
For mild causes of vomiting, home care may be appropriate. At home, your pup should rest today so no walks or playtime. You may try fasting for 6 hours followed by a bland diet for 24 hours. When in doubt, have Atlas checked out! I hope Atlas starts feeling better quickly! Please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Mara Howard, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 14th, 2017
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I'm sorry to hear Shadow is feeling under the weather. GI upset can be due to a variety of causes, including intestinal parasites, dietary indiscretion, foreign material ingestion, or another underlying medical issue. If Shadow's energy level is normal and he is able to keep down water, I would recommend withholding food until the morning and then starting small amounts of a bland diet (white meat chicken with white rice, for example). If this does not improve his signs within 24-48 hours, then I would recommend he be evaluated by a veterinarian. If the vomiting and diarrhea worsen, he starts acting lethargic, becomes inappetent or you are concerned, then I would recommend he be seen by a veterinarian, have any necessary testing done (xrays, bloodwork) and start any treatment (fluid therapy, anti-diarrheal, anti-nausea medication) that he may need to feel better. Good luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful