Why Does My Puppy Keep Spitting Up Water?

Puppies spit up water for several reasons -- most commonly, the puppy is drinking too fast and can't digest the amount he drinks. Puppies who drink heavily after exercise may also spit up. A puppy needs more water than an adult dog, especially if he eats a dry kibble diet. You can control when your puppy drinks, but be sure he gets as much water in the course of a day as he wants. To rule out medical issues, a puppy who spits up water frequently should be evaluated by your veterinarian.

  1. The Big Gulp

    • Water is a vital nutrient for your puppy, but most puppies haven't learned how to regulate their intake and may ingest more than their stomachs can handle. If your puppy spits up water right after drinking, chances are he just drank too much too quickly. If he's been playing or exercising and takes a big drink, he may also spit up shortly afterward. If your puppy is prone to this, let him drink small amounts at a time when he comes in from playing. Offer water in a raised bowl to make it easier for your pup to digest his water.

    Gastric Upset

    • It may appear that the clear liquid your puppy spits up is water, but sometimes it is clear gastric liquid. A puppy vomits this when the lining of his stomach is irritated. He may have eaten something that doesn't agree with him such as grass, which can make a puppy vomit. Dogs frequently throw up gastric fluid early in the morning before they have breakfast because their stomach is empty. This may be a clear, foamy fluid and can be alleviated by giving the puppy a snack before bedtime.

    Medical Issues

    • Some medical conditions can cause a puppy to throw up water or clear liquid. If your puppy throws up more than once a week, your vet should see him to check for any medical issues. She will rule out liver and thyroid conditions or stomach problems and examine him to determine whether the puppy has eaten any toxic substance that could cause vomiting.

    When to Worry

    • If your puppy spits up more than once a week, he should see the vet.

      It's not unusual for a puppy to spit up water occasionally after exercise or drinking too quickly. But if he is lethargic, refuses food or continues to spit up several times in succession, see your vet. If the liquid your puppy throws up contains blood, other substances, or if he has diarrhea, take him to the vet.