Seeing your dog throw up bile and also pass blood in their stool is very concerning. These symptoms can signal serious digestive or systemic health issues that require close attention.
We outline the common reasons why a dog may throw up bile and also have blood in their stool, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Throwing Up Bile and Blood in Stool — Why It Happens
When a dog vomits bile and has blood in their stool, it usually indicates significant irritation, inflammation, or damage within the digestive tract. Bile may appear when the stomach is empty or when there is irritation of the stomach and intestines.
The presence of blood in the stool suggests bleeding somewhere in the digestive system, which can occur due to infections, parasites, ulcers, toxins, or more severe diseases.
Together, these symptoms point to an underlying problem that should not be ignored, as they can quickly lead to dehydration, anemia, or more dangerous complications.
Dog Throwing Up Bile and Blood in Stool: Common Causes
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis refers to inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often triggered by infections, dietary indiscretion, or toxins.
This condition can cause vomiting of bile as the stomach lining becomes irritated, and the inflamed intestines may bleed, leading to blood in the stool.
Dogs may also have diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy. While mild cases can sometimes improve with supportive care, severe gastroenteritis can be life-threatening and requires prompt veterinary treatment.
Read more: Dog Throwing Up Bile and blood (Causes and what you can do)
Parvovirus (Especially in Puppies)
Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral infection that mainly affects puppies and unvaccinated dogs.
It damages the lining of the intestines, leading to vomiting, loss of appetite, bile-filled vomit, and bloody diarrhea.
Parvo is extremely serious and can be fatal without immediate treatment. Puppies with parvo quickly become dehydrated and weak, often needing hospitalization with IV fluids, medications, and intensive care.
Intestinal Parasites
Heavy infestations of intestinal worms such as hookworms or whipworms can damage the intestinal lining, causing blood in the stool.
At the same time, the irritation of the digestive tract may lead to vomiting bile. Dogs with parasite infestations may also appear thin, weak, or have a rough coat.
Puppies are particularly vulnerable and can become severely anemic from blood loss caused by parasites.
Ulcers or Toxic Ingestions
Stomach or intestinal ulcers can develop from chronic irritation, medications (such as NSAIDs), or certain toxins.
These ulcers may bleed, leading to blood in the stool, and also cause nausea and vomiting of bile.
Dogs that have ingested toxic substances such as rat poison or harmful chemicals may also present with these symptoms.
These cases are urgent, as internal bleeding or toxin exposure can quickly escalate into an emergency.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, can also cause vomiting bile and sometimes blood in the stool if the intestines are affected.
Dogs with pancreatitis may be restless, refuse to eat, or appear hunched due to abdominal pain.
This condition can become severe if not treated promptly, and supportive veterinary care is usually required.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Chronic digestive conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease can cause both bile vomiting and blood in the stool. In IBD, the intestinal lining is chronically inflamed, leading to poor absorption of nutrients, nausea, and bleeding.
Dogs with IBD may also lose weight, have irregular bowel movements, or show intermittent episodes of vomiting and diarrhea. Long-term management is often needed with veterinary guidance.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Throwing Up Bile and Blood in Stool
If your dog vomits bile once and has a single episode of blood in their stool but otherwise seems normal, you can monitor them closely while ensuring they stay hydrated.
Offer small sips of water frequently, and once vomiting subsides, you can try a bland diet such as boiled chicken and rice in small portions.
However, when vomiting bile and blood in stool occur together, it is more than just a mild upset stomach. These symptoms suggest significant irritation or disease.
Keeping your dog comfortable at home may help in mild cases, but you should prepare to contact your vet if the symptoms continue beyond a few hours.
Avoid giving over-the-counter medications unless directed by your veterinarian, as some human medicines can make the situation worse. Instead, focus on hydration and monitoring for additional signs such as lethargy, abdominal swelling, or refusal to eat.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
You should contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog continues to throw up bile and pass blood in their stool, or if the symptoms are severe from the start. Dogs that appear weak, dehydrated, or in pain should never be left untreated.
If your dog is a puppy, senior, or has a pre-existing condition, they are at greater risk of complications and need prompt veterinary attention. Blood loss and dehydration can progress quickly, and underlying conditions such as parvovirus or toxins require urgent care.
If you notice tarry, black stools (indicating digested blood) or bright red blood in large amounts, treat it as an emergency and seek immediate veterinary help.
Read more: Dog Throwing Up Bile and Water (Should you be concerned?)
Key Takeaway
When a dog is throwing up bile and also has blood in their stool, it signals a potentially serious problem in the digestive tract.
Causes can range from infections and parasites to ulcers, pancreatitis, or even life-threatening viruses like parvo.
While mild cases may resolve with supportive care, most dogs with these symptoms need veterinary evaluation to prevent complications.
Always monitor your dog closely, prioritize hydration, and seek veterinary care promptly if the symptoms are persistent, severe, or accompanied by other concerning signs.