When a dog vomits, the color of the vomit can provide important clues about their health and what might be going on inside their body. While color alone doesn’t give a full diagnosis, paying attention to vomit color along with other symptoms can help determine if a vet visit is needed.
White or Foamy Vomit
White, foamy vomit often contains stomach acid or bile. It can occur when a dog has an empty stomach or is experiencing digestive upset, acid reflux, or intestinal issues. Sometimes it may also be a sign of toxins or an intestinal blockage. Frequent foamy vomiting should be checked by a vet.
Clear Vomit
Clear vomit generally means the dog is bringing up saliva or stomach fluids and may be related to nausea or indigestion. It can also signal early warning signs of kidney or liver failure or toxicity, so persistent clear vomiting calls for veterinary attention.
Yellow or Green Vomit
Yellow or green vomit usually contains bile. This often happens if the dog’s stomach is empty for too long or if there is digestive irritation. Green vomit can also result from eating grass or other plants. Repeated bile vomiting could indicate bilious vomiting syndrome or liver issues and should prompt a vet consultation.
Brown Vomit
Brown vomit might simply be partially digested food or something the dog ate, but darker brown resembling coffee grounds can indicate digested blood, which is a medical emergency. Brown vomit that smells like feces suggests an intestinal blockage and requires immediate vet care. Chocolate ingestion may also cause brown vomit and calls for quick veterinary help.
Red or Bloody Vomit
Bright red or pink vomit indicates fresh blood and is a serious sign of internal bleeding, injury, or gastrointestinal disease. If a dog is vomiting blood, urgent veterinary attention is required.
Other Colors and Considerations
Vomits of unusual colors can sometimes result from dyes in foods, treats, or poisons. For example, blue vomit could be caused by ingestion of brightly colored rat poison, demanding immediate emergency care.
When to See the Vet
Any vomiting that is frequent, accompanied by lethargy, refusal to eat, diarrhea, or signs of pain should always prompt a visit to the vet. Color is just one part of the picture in understanding a dog’s health.
Pay close attention to your dog’s vomit color and consistency as early clues to health issues, and work with your veterinarian to ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy