When your dog is throwing up bile and constipated at the same time, it’s a strong signal that their digestive system is under stress.
Vomiting bile shows irritation or emptiness in the stomach, while constipation indicates trouble passing stool.
We outline the common reasons why a dog may be throwing up bile and experiencing constipation, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Throwing Up Bile and Constipated — Why It Happens
A dog that is both vomiting bile and constipated is usually experiencing a digestive imbalance or blockage that prevents the body from working normally. Bile vomiting happens when the stomach is empty but still irritated, while constipation can result from dehydration, poor diet, swallowed foreign objects, or underlying disease.
Together, they can point to intestinal blockages, pancreatitis, poor gut motility, or even organ dysfunction. These symptoms should always be taken seriously, especially when they appear together.
Dog Throwing Up Bile and Constipated: Common Causes
Intestinal Blockage
An intestinal blockage is one of the most serious causes of bile vomiting and constipation. If your dog swallows a toy, bone, or piece of fabric, it can obstruct the intestines.
The stomach reacts by vomiting bile, while the blockage prevents stool from passing. Dogs may also strain unsuccessfully, show abdominal pain, or refuse food.
This condition is a medical emergency and requires immediate surgery in most cases.
Read more: Dog Throwing Up Bile and Pooping Blood (Here’s what it means)
Dehydration
Dehydration slows down bowel movements, often leading to constipation. At the same time, an empty or irritated stomach may produce bile vomiting.
Dogs that don’t drink enough water, especially in hot weather or after heavy activity, are at higher risk.
Lethargy, sunken eyes, and dry gums are additional warning signs. Without proper fluids, the digestive system struggles, making it harder for waste to move.
Dietary Indiscretion
Eating inappropriate items like trash, spoiled food, or too many bones can irritate the stomach and cause bile vomiting.
These same items can also harden stool or slow digestion, leading to constipation. Dogs that raid garbage or chew on foreign objects often show both symptoms together. Owners may also notice abdominal discomfort, bloating, or reduced appetite.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, can upset digestion and cause bile vomiting.
Dogs with this condition often become weak, dehydrated, and constipated due to reduced appetite and slowed gut function.
Abdominal pain, hunched posture, and refusal to eat are common. Pancreatitis requires veterinary intervention and can be life-threatening if ignored.
Poor Diet or Low Fiber
A diet lacking in fiber can contribute to constipation, while long fasting or irregular feeding schedules may increase bile vomiting.
Dogs on highly processed, low-quality diets are especially vulnerable. In some cases, obesity or lack of exercise worsens the issue. Improving diet and hydration is an important part of preventing recurrence.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Diseases such as hypothyroidism, kidney problems, or neurological conditions can slow digestion, leading to constipation and secondary bile vomiting.
Dogs with these conditions may also show signs like excessive thirst, weakness, or unexplained weight changes.
Identifying and managing the underlying condition is essential to resolving the symptoms.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Throwing Up Bile and Constipated
If your dog has mild constipation and vomits bile once but otherwise seems comfortable, you may try simple at-home measures.
Offer fresh water frequently to prevent dehydration. Feeding small, bland meals such as boiled chicken and rice can soothe the stomach while being gentle on digestion.
Increasing dietary fiber gradually, using safe sources like canned pumpkin, may help soften stool.
Allow your dog to rest and avoid strenuous activity until they pass stool. Gentle walks may stimulate bowel movements naturally. Never give human laxatives or medications without veterinary advice, as these can be dangerous for dogs.
Monitor your dog closely, and if there is no improvement within 24 hours, veterinary care is necessary.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
You should call your veterinarian promptly if your dog has repeated bile vomiting, has not passed stool for more than 48 hours, or appears in pain.
Signs such as bloating, continuous retching without producing vomit, collapse, or blood in vomit or stool require urgent attention.
Dogs with pre-existing health conditions, puppies, or seniors are more vulnerable and should not be left untreated. Intestinal blockages, severe dehydration, and pancreatitis can all be life-threatening if ignored. When in doubt, it is always safer to have your dog examined by a professional.
Read more: Dog Throwing Up Bile and Undigested Food (When to worry)
Key Takeaway
When a dog is throwing up bile and constipated, it signals digestive trouble that should not be brushed off.
While mild cases may improve with hydration, diet adjustments, and rest, more serious conditions like blockages or pancreatitis require immediate veterinary attention.
Trust your instincts—if your dog seems unwell, weak, or uncomfortable, timely veterinary care is the best way to ensure their health and recovery.