How to Make Your Dog Vomit Safely
Seeing your dog swallow something dangerous is frightening. In some cases, making your dog vomit quickly can save their life. But it’s not always safe to do it yourself without veterinary advice.
In this guide, we'll explain when it's appropriate to make your dog vomit, how to do it safely, and when you should call a vet immediately.
When Should You Make Your Dog Vomit?
You might need to induce vomiting if your dog has swallowed:
- Toxic foods (e.g., chocolate, grapes, onions)
- Certain medications (ibuprofen, antidepressants, etc.)
- Small non-sharp objects (like a sock or toy)
Important:
You should only induce vomiting if a vet advises you to. Some substances and situations can make vomiting more dangerous.
When NOT to Make Your Dog Vomit
Never attempt to make your dog vomit if:
- They have already vomited naturally
- They have trouble breathing
- They are lethargic, unconscious, or having seizures
- They swallowed something sharp (like glass or bones)
- They ingested something caustic (like bleach, detergent, or battery acid)
👉 In these cases, vomiting could cause more damage.
How to Make Your Dog Vomit (Disclaimer: Only If a Vet Advises It)
If you’re told to make your dog vomit at home by a vet, the most common method is hydrogen peroxide (3% solution only).
Here’s how:
- Use 3% hydrogen peroxide — stronger concentrations are dangerous.
- Dosage: Give 1 teaspoon (5 ml) per 5 kilograms of body weight (maximum 3 tablespoons).
- Administer orally using a syringe or turkey baster.
- Encourage gentle walking after dosing to stimulate vomiting.
- Wait up to 15 minutes — if no vomiting, you can repeat one more time if advised by a vet.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Only use fresh hydrogen peroxide (it loses effectiveness over time).
- Do not exceed two doses.
- Monitor your dog carefully — if vomiting doesn’t occur, or if symptoms worsen, seek emergency care.
Are There Alternatives to Hydrogen Peroxide?
In clinics, vets sometimes use:
- Apomorphine (an injectable medication)
- Other prescription drugs
These are safer and more controlled than at-home methods.
Dial A Vet strongly recommends professional support whenever possible.
What to Do After Your Dog Vomits
After successful vomiting:
- Keep your dog calm
- Offer small amounts of water (no food yet)
- Monitor for signs of distress (coughing, weakness, continued vomiting)
Still call your vet for a follow-up check — there might be residual toxins or damage needing treatment.
When to Call a Vet Immediately
Book a vet consult immediately if:
- You don't know exactly what your dog swallowed
- Vomiting doesn’t happen after two attempts
- Your dog shows signs of weakness, breathing issues, or seizures
- They vomit blood or material smells severely toxic
👉 Need urgent advice?
Dial A Vet offers $49 online consultations with licensed vets to guide you through emergencies.
Book a consult now.
Summary
Key Points:
Only induce vomiting if instructed by a vet
Use 3% hydrogen peroxide (carefully dosed)
Never induce vomiting after caustic, sharp, or toxic chemical ingestion
Seek vet help if your dog seems weak, distressed, or worsens after vomiting
When it comes to your pet's safety, getting professional advice is always the best first step.
✅ Book your $49 consultation with Dial A Vet today.
FAQs
How much hydrogen peroxide should I give my dog?
1 teaspoon (5 ml) per 5 kilograms of body weight, maximum 3 tablespoons. (Disclaimer: Only If A Vet Advises It)
Can I use salt to make my dog vomit?
No — salt is dangerous and can cause serious poisoning in dogs. Never use salt.
What if my dog doesn't vomit after hydrogen peroxide?
Do not give more. Seek vet advice immediately.
Is vomiting always safe for dogs?
No — for some ingested items, vomiting can cause more harm than good.
References
- Australian Veterinary Association. (n.d.). Poisoning in pets. https://www.ava.com.au
- RSPCA Australia. (n.d.). Emergency care for poisoning. https://www.rspca.org.au
- Animal Emergency Service. (n.d.). How to induce vomiting in dogs. https://animalemergencyservice.com.au
