Dog Throwing Up Yellow Fluid

Every so often, a dog owner may see his dog throwing up yellow fluid. This is actually rarely cause for alarm and is quite common among dogs, regardless of age, though younger dogs may do this more frequently. The yellow fluid is usually stomach bile and that means the dog is vomiting on an empty stomach. Sometimes the color can be a darker yellow or golden, sometimes froth or foam may be in the vomit. There may be a few reasons for this, most no cause for alarm.

Often dogs throw up bile in the morning; again, this is on an empty stomach. It is usually due to a buildup of stomach acid or bile. The main thing to look at is if there is change in their behavior, like lethargy over an extended period of time. Also, look for any blood in the vomit, which could mean something more serious. If neither of these are apparent, it probably is harmless and just a reaction to excess stomach acid.

Causes of Throwing up Yellow Fluid

As stated, the main cause for throwing up a yellow fluid in dogs is an excess of stomach acid. Many dogs do this when they have not eaten in a while, like first thing in the morning. Some dogs do it when they are overly excited. The over accumulation of the acid in the stomach can irritate the lining and even cause some inflammation. This can lead to the vomiting.

Sometimes, if it is close to the time the dog usually eats and he has not had his food, he may throw up. Again, this is due to bile production in anticipation of a meal and if the food does not come, the bile builds up and irritates the stomach.

Irritable bowel syndrome can occur in dogs and vomiting is also a symptom of that. Other symptoms usually occur, though, like weight loss and lack of energy, along with problems with bowel movements.

Treatment of Throwing up Yellow Fluid

Try feeding the dog on a regular basis, as close to the same time each day as possible. Some dogs do better being fed twice or even more times a day, once first thing in the morning and once in the evening. Make sure the portions are split, though, so over eating does not become a problem. If they cannot be fed twice a day for whatever reason, a small snack, like a dog biscuit or two in the morning may help. Another option is a snack later in the evening to keep the stomach from being too empty in the morning.

Dogs do better with dry food instead of wet or rehydrated kibbles. This allows the food to absorb more of the stomach acid and get it out of the stomach. They should also try to be kept calm before or after meals if throwing up is an issue for them.

Usually throwing up bile is not harmful for dogs or signs of a serious illness. By maintaining a healthy intake of food with smaller meals more often, the problem may be resolved. If the problem becomes incessant or other symptoms are apparent, a visit to the veterinarian may be a good idea.