If you’re a dog owner, you’ve probably dealt with your furry friend throwing up at some point. But have you ever wondered why do dogs throw up yellow? The color is often a sign that bile is present in the vomit.
Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver, and its presence in your dog’s vomit can indicate a variety of issues. While seeing your dog throw up yellow can be concerning, it’s a fairly common occurrence.
This article will explore the common causes of yellow vomit in dogs, when to seek veterinary care, and what you can do to help your dog feel better.
What is Bile and Why Is It in Your Dog’s Vomit?
If your dog has thrown up a puddle of yellow liquid, you may be wondering where that color came from. In most cases, that yellow tint is bile, a digestive fluid produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder that helps break down fats.
Bile doesn’t normally hang out in the stomach, but it can reflux or back up into the stomach, especially when the stomach is empty.
Bile in Vomit – What It Means
When your dog’s vomit is yellow, that means bile is present. An occasional episode of yellow vomit may not be anything to worry about. But if your dog is frequently or severely vomiting bile, that’s a good reason to talk with your veterinarian.
Common Causes of Yellow Vomit in Dogs
So, what’s making your dog throw up yellow stuff? Here are a few of the most common possibilities:
Empty Stomach and Bilious Vomiting Syndrome (BVS)
An empty stomach is a common culprit, especially if your dog is throwing up yellow bile first thing in the morning. Sometimes, that yellow vomit is caused by a condition called bilious vomiting syndrome, or BVS.
With BVS, your dog vomits bile, usually early in the morning, because their stomach has been empty for too long. The bile, which is produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder, then irritates the stomach lining, leading to vomiting. The good news is that BVS is often easily managed by adjusting your dog’s feeding schedule.
Smaller, more frequent meals are usually recommended for dogs with BVS.
Dietary Indiscretion and Food Sensitivities
Another frequent cause of vomiting in dogs is dietary indiscretion. Translation? They ate something they shouldn’t have!
Eating garbage, spoiled food, or other questionable items can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and, yes, vomiting. Food intolerances or allergies can also sometimes lead to vomiting, although skin issues are a more common symptom. If your vet suspects a food allergy, they may recommend an elimination diet to identify the offending ingredient.
Gastrointestinal Issues
General gastrointestinal inflammation or disease can also trigger yellow vomit. Conditions like pancreatitis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can definitely cause vomiting, along with other symptoms.
Serious Underlying Conditions: When Yellow Vomit Signals Danger
Sometimes, that yellow vomit is more than just an empty tummy. It can point to a more serious problem that needs a vet’s attention. Here’s what to watch out for:
Intestinal Blockages
If your dog has managed to swallow something it shouldn’t have, like a toy or a piece of bone, it can cause a blockage in the intestines. This blockage prevents food from passing through, leading to vomiting, often including yellow bile. If this is the case, surgery may be required to remove the object.
Toxin Ingestion
Dogs are curious creatures, and sometimes their curiosity leads them to ingest things that are harmful. Ingestion of toxins can cause vomiting. Make sure to keep all household cleaners, medications, and other potentially poisonous substances well out of your dog’s reach.
Other Medical Conditions
In some cases, yellow vomit can be a symptom of other underlying health issues, such as liver disease, ulcers, or Addison’s disease. These conditions require proper diagnosis and treatment from a veterinarian.
When to call the vet
While yellow vomit can sometimes be harmless, you should always watch your dog for other symptoms. Call your vet right away if you notice any of the following:
- Severe or repeated vomiting
- Lethargy or weakness
- Diarrhea (especially if it contains blood)
- Signs of abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite or refusal to drink water
- Blood in the vomit
- Signs of dehydration, like sunken eyes or dry gums
These symptoms could indicate a more serious problem that requires immediate veterinary attention. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re concerned about your dog’s health.
How do vets diagnose the cause of yellow vomit?
If your dog throws up yellow liquid more than once, you should take them to a vet.
The vet will likely perform a physical exam, complete blood work, collect a urine sample, and possibly take X-rays or perform an ultrasound.
It’s important to give the vet as much information as you can about your dog’s behavior and symptoms. Tell them about:
- When the vomiting started
- How often the dog vomits
- What the vomit looks like
- What the dog has been eating
- Any changes in the dog’s behavior
Finding the cause of the vomiting is the first step toward developing a treatment plan.
How vets treat yellow vomit
The treatment for your dog’s yellow vomit will depend on the reason they’re throwing up in the first place.
Some common treatments include:
- Dietary changes. Your vet might recommend smaller, more frequent meals, or a bland diet that’s easy to digest.
- Medications. Depending on the underlying cause, your vet might prescribe anti-nausea medications, antacids, or even antibiotics.
- Fluid therapy. If your dog is dehydrated from vomiting, they may need intravenous fluids.
- Surgery. In cases of blockages or other structural problems, surgery might be necessary.
- Probiotics. Probiotics might help to re-establish a healthy balance of bacteria in your dog’s gut.
How to prevent your dog from throwing up yellow bile
Here are some strategies you can use to help prevent your dog from throwing up yellow bile:
- Consistent feeding schedules: Try to feed your dog around the same time each day.
- Smaller, more frequent meals: Instead of one large meal, divide your dog’s daily food into smaller portions and feed them throughout the day.
- Careful monitoring: Keep an eye on your dog, especially when outside, to prevent them from eating things they shouldn’t.
- Regular vet checkups: Schedule regular checkups with your vet to ensure your dog is healthy and to catch any potential issues early.
Summary
If your dog throws up yellow liquid, it could be nothing or it could be a sign of something serious. That’s why it’s important to pay close attention to your dog’s health and be proactive about addressing any concerns you have.
If your dog keeps throwing up or you’re worried about their symptoms, make sure to contact your veterinarian.