How to Make a Dog Throw Up: Safely Induce Vomiting

Inducing vomiting in a dog is no fun for anyone involved. However, expelling a toxin may save a dog’s life. For certain poisons, there’s a limited window (roughly 30 minutes) between when a dog ingests the toxin and when he experiences severe complications. Because it’s best for a dog to throw up as soon as possible in these cases, it’s something that you may want to do at home before bringing your dog to the vet. But what’s the best way to make a dog throw up?

Reasons to Make a Dog Throw Up

First, understand that the only reason to induce vomiting in a dog is if he has very recently ingested something poisonous. Gary Weitzman, DVM, President of the San Diego Humane Society and author of the book The Complete Guide to Pet Health, Behavior, and Happiness, says, “The most common reason we would recommend a dog vomit is if he’s eaten mouse poison or rat poison, or snail bait.” He adds that antifreeze and marijuana are other toxins for which vomiting is a necessary measure as well. Chemicals in gardens can cause issues for dogs, too.

There are specific situations where making your dog vomit could help prevent serious health problems. The main reason? They’ve swallowed something harmful and you need to get it out fast. But the decision to induce vomiting should always come with guidance from your vet or a pet poison control expert.

Here are the most common reasons a vet might recommend making your dog throw up:

1. Ingesting Toxic Foods

If your dog eats something toxic like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, or garlic, getting it out of their system quickly can reduce the risk of poisoning. Time is critical—vomiting is usually only effective within the first 1–2 hours after eating the item.

2. Swallowed Human Medications

Many over-the-counter or prescription medications are dangerous for dogs, even in small amounts. If your dog grabs a pill bottle or chews up a loose tablet, your vet may recommend inducing vomiting depending on the drug and how long ago it happened.

3. Consuming Xylitol or Artificial Sweeteners

Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs and can lead to a rapid drop in blood sugar or liver failure. If your dog eats gum, candy, peanut butter, or baked goods containing xylitol, vomiting may help reduce absorption if done quickly under veterinary guidance.

4. Eating Certain Household Items

Some household items—like small amounts of non-sharp plastic, fabric, or non-toxic personal care products—might pass through the digestive system, but in some cases, vomiting can help avoid blockages or discomfort if the item was just swallowed.

5. Accidental Ingestion of Pet Toxins

Flea medication, rodent bait, or toxic plants like sago palm can all pose serious health risks. If your dog gets into something like this, a vet may recommend vomiting to help reduce absorption before symptoms begin.

Remember, vomiting isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Some substances can cause more damage coming back up. That’s why it’s always best to talk to your vet before taking any action. A quick call can make a big difference in keeping your dog safe.

Before you try to make your dog throw up, however, it’s critical that you call your veterinarian. If your vet isn’t available, you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. Every situation is different, so it’s critical to assess whether inducing vomiting in your dog is appropriate in your particular case.

 

 

 

 

 

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So I got kicked out of the bed for 2 days because mum and dad found a vomit surprise that I had left them in the middle of their bed the other night… I’ve managed to weasel my way back in although apparently I’m not allowed on unsupervised anymore… We’ll see 🤨 #wakeuptothisface #thebedisextracomforts #workingonmum

A post shared by 🙋🏻❤️🐶 (@jessi_and_betty) on Jun 22, 2018 at 4:37pm PDT

When To Make Your Dog Throw Up

If your dog eats something toxic or potentially dangerous, your first instinct might be to act fast—and that’s the right mindset. In certain situations, inducing vomiting can help remove the harmful item before it gets fully absorbed into your dog’s system. But timing matters, and so does knowing what your dog ate.

You should only try to make your dog throw up if they’ve eaten something non-corrosive and toxic within the last 1–2 hours. Common examples include chocolate, xylitol (often found in sugar-free gum), certain medications, or grapes and raisins. In these cases, vomiting might help prevent poisoning by getting the substance out of the stomach quickly.

Before you do anything, call your vet or a pet poison control line. They can confirm whether vomiting is the right move, walk you through the process, and let you know if emergency care is needed. Even if the situation seems urgent, it’s important to make sure inducing vomiting is safe based on what your dog consumed and their current health.

When Not to Make Your Dog Throw Up

The reason it’s important to speak to a professional before inducing vomiting in your dog is that sometimes vomiting can cause additional harm. If your dog has eaten a corrosive chemical like bleach, batteries, or laundry detergent, throwing up could lead to even more damage on the way back up. (Although not a toxin per se, the same goes for sharp objects, which could tear the esophagus or create a choking hazard when vomited.)

Dogs with breathing issues, including brachycephalic (“smooshed-face”) breeds like pugs and bulldogs, are at risk of inhaling vomit into the lungs. This can lead to serious complications like asphyxiation or pneumonia.

How To Make a Dog Throw Up Safely

If you’ve determined that the best course of action is to make your dog throw up, there is only one safe way to do it: hydrogen peroxide.

A 3% hydrogen peroxide solution, something every dog owner should keep on hand, is the most effective and safest way to induce vomiting in dogs. Give one teaspoon per every 10 pounds of body weight. Open your dogs mouth and drop in the solution before massaging his throat. If you have an eyedropper or small baster, this can be helpful for administering the solution.

Weitzman says this will bring up everything your dog has in his stomach. “The look in their eyes is horrible. You can see they are so nauseous,” he admits. “But it can save their life.”

Just remember: a moment or two of discomfort is a small price to pay for your pup’s health and safety!

Step-By-Step Guide To Induce Vomiting In Dogs

1. Use 3% Hydrogen Peroxide (Only if Instructed by a Vet)

• Dose: The standard dosage is 1 teaspoon (5 ml) per 10 pounds of body weight, with a maximum of 3 tablespoons for large dogs.
  
• Administration: Use a syringe or turkey baster to gently squirt the hydrogen peroxide into the back corner of your dog’s mouth. Don’t mix it with food or water.
  

2. Wait and Observe

• After giving the dose, walk your dog around gently. Movement helps activate the peroxide.
  
• Vomiting usually starts within 10–15 minutes. If nothing happens after 15 minutes, your vet may advise a second dose—but never give more than two doses.
  

3. Watch for Side Effects

• Some drooling, nausea, or mild bloating is normal.
  
• If your dog shows signs of distress, doesn’t vomit after two doses, or continues vomiting for a long time, seek vet care immediately.
  

Important Safety Reminders:

• Only use 3% hydrogen peroxide. Stronger solutions are dangerous.
  
• Never use salt, syrup of ipecac, or mustard—these are not safe or effective for dogs.
  
• Don’t induce vomiting in brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, or if your dog is weak, having trouble breathing, or having seizures.
  

Once your dog has vomited, your vet may recommend additional steps like giving activated charcoal or coming in for a follow-up. Even if everything seems okay afterward, it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your dog for the next 24 hours.