If your dog is vomiting white foam mixed with yellow bile, it’s usually a sign that their stomach is empty but still irritated. This combination may point to reflux, bile vomiting syndrome, or other digestive disturbances, especially when it happens early in the morning or between meals.
We outline the common causes of dog vomiting white foam and yellow bile, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Vomiting White Foam and Yellow Bile — Why It Happens
When a dog vomits white foam and yellow bile, it typically means their stomach is empty and bile has refluxed back into the stomach. This irritates the lining, which produces foam and triggers vomiting. The issue is often linked to acid reflux, bile vomiting syndrome, or a lack of food over extended periods.
Common Causes of Dog Vomiting White Foam and Yellow Bile
Bilious Vomiting Syndrome (Reflux Gastritis)
This condition occurs when bile backs up into the empty stomach, especially after long fasting periods or overnight.
It typically results in vomiting early in the morning, often with yellow bile and white foam.
Affected dogs may seem otherwise healthy. Feeding a small meal before bedtime often helps reduce episodes.
Veterinarians may recommend antacids or prescription medications to manage the issue.
Acid Reflux
Just like humans, dogs can experience acid reflux, where stomach acid moves up into the esophagus.
This causes irritation that leads to vomiting white foam, bile, or a sour-smelling yellow fluid.
Reflux can occur after heavy meals, fatty foods, or long gaps between eating.
Management may include diet changes, smaller meals, and medications to reduce stomach acid.
Related: Dog vomiting and not eating (Causes and what to do)
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that causes vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.
In early stages, dogs may vomit white foam or yellow bile before any food comes up.
Other signs include restlessness, bloating, fever, and lethargy. This condition requires prompt veterinary treatment.
Dietary Indiscretion or Food Intolerance
Eating fatty foods, spoiled leftovers, or new diets can irritate the stomach and cause bile and foam vomiting.
It may also result in diarrhea, flatulence, or decreased appetite.
Withholding food temporarily and feeding a bland diet usually resolves mild cases, but persistent vomiting requires evaluation.
Intestinal Obstruction
If your dog swallows a foreign object, it may cause partial blockage in the GI tract.
When the stomach is empty, the dog may vomit bile and foam due to irritation and reflux.
Signs of obstruction include repeated vomiting, lack of appetite, abdominal discomfort, and lethargy.
This is an emergency and needs immediate medical attention.
Related: Dog vomiting foam and not eating (Here’s why)
What to Do If Your Dog Is Vomiting White Foam and Yellow Bile
Feed your dog smaller, more frequent meals to prevent the stomach from staying empty for too long.
Try offering a small snack before bedtime if vomiting tends to happen overnight or in the morning.
Provide plenty of water, but in small amounts after vomiting to avoid worsening nausea.
Switch to a bland diet such as boiled chicken and rice until symptoms subside. Avoid fatty or rich foods.
If vomiting occurs repeatedly, or if your dog shows other symptoms like diarrhea, lethargy, or abdominal swelling, call your vet.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Call your veterinarian if your dog:
Vomits more than once in 24 hours
Vomits yellow bile and foam regularly (more than 2–3 times a week)
Shows signs of pain, bloating, or weakness
Has diarrhea, fever, or refuses food
Is a puppy, senior, or has existing health problems
Veterinary exams may include bloodwork, imaging, or GI testing to diagnose the root cause.
Read more: Dog Vomiting White Foam and Undigested Food (What it means)
Key Takeaway
White foam and yellow bile vomiting often point to an irritated, empty stomach or bile reflux—but frequent episodes may signal a more serious issue.
Don’t ignore ongoing vomiting. Feed more frequent meals, monitor closely, and talk to your vet if the problem continues or worsens.