I have 2 springer spaniels, one which I have had since he was a pup, and is fine in all respects, no house fouling etc. The other, is 2 years old, called leo, and we only got him about a month ago. He had problems with keeping food down, regurgitating as soon as he ate, so I have reduced portions that he has and regulated them a lot more, however, if i dont give him antacid he vomits again. The other issue is that the new dog, wont clean itself, he has a long coat, and i have never witnessed him cleaning his self, the other tries but to no avail. Any ideas would be welcome, as 5 baths a week may become a little excessive. Please help.

Why do you think a dog is supposed to "clean" himself? Dogs are dogs. They get dirty. They don't care. It's natural for dogs to get dirty.

If you're referring to his private areas, use a baby wipe. If there's excessive hair in those areas, take him to a groomer once in a while for a bath with sanitary clip.

If you're referring to dirt and debris he's picking up in his coat, brush him.

Have you had him to the vet to be checked for reasons why he isnt able to keep his food down? If not I would do that right away, unless hes gourging when he eats he should be able to keep his food down. Also, what are his habits like? Does he eat and then go play lots or does he eat and lay down for awhile afterwards. If hes playing right after eating, you might want to make sure he stays calm for an hour or so after eating. If you havent yet, I would make taking him to the vets the top priority to find out if theres anything causing this. Also has his food been changed at all?

Try experimenting with a different brand of food. Something that doesn't many added flavors and colors. He may be sensitive to a certain kind of food.

As far as cleaning himself, dogs do not necessarily have to lick themselves. I have two cocker spaniels and they both lick themselves in their private parts, but that doesn't keep them any cleaner than if they didn't. It's mostly habitual. The licking really doesn't serve a purpose.

Also, do not wash your dog 5 times a week. That is way too much. The fur and skin will start to become very dry, which may cause your dog to scratch and bite at his skin. Dry skin becomes very itchy. Bathing once every two weeks is plenty. I am aware that a spaniel can become smelly, especially with long coat. You can try using the dog wet wipes, which may be helpful in eliminating odor and extending time periods between baths.

Hope this helps!

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Where did you get this dog? A little history should have been offered as to his food issues. I would think he has a major allergy, maybe wheat. I know it's a lot of work, but one way to test it out is to feed them a little rice and turkey. It's good for their stomachs and will give them a boost of protein. If that works, let your vet know and they can presribe a food better suited with less guessing.

As for cleaning themselves... long haired dogs tend to do this less. I can understand... ick so just give your dog a bath every couple of weeks with a fragrance free shampoo. However until your dog starts eating, bathing should be reduced. The skin needs the nutrients in food to help keep it healthy. Shampoo + bad diet can equal big problems.

Poor thing may have an ulcer. Take to vet.

as far as i know you are the ones who will clean it up..