Frenchie Throwing Up Blood (Here’s Why)

Frenchie Throwing Up Blood: Common Causes 

1. Gastrointestinal Irritation or Ulcers

One of the most common reasons for a Frenchie throwing up blood is irritation or ulceration in the stomach lining.

Gastric ulcers can develop due to chronic vomiting, medications like NSAIDs, or stress-related gastrointestinal issues.

These ulcers can bleed, resulting in the appearance of fresh red blood or partially digested dark blood (coffee-ground appearance) in the vomit.

Signs to watch for:

• Dark, tarry stools (melena)

• Lethargy

• Loss of appetite

• Whining or discomfort after eating

French Bulldogs with sensitive stomachs may be more prone to developing ulcers, especially if they are taking medication or are under stress.

2. Ingestion of Foreign Objects

Frenchies are curious by nature and often use their mouths to explore the world.

If your Frenchie has swallowed something they shouldn’t have—such as bones, toys, or sharp objects—it could cause tears or lacerations in the esophagus or stomach lining, leading to vomiting blood.

Accompanying symptoms may include:

• Vomiting that starts suddenly

• Straining to defecate or changes in bowel movement

• Restlessness or abdominal pain

If you suspect your Frenchie has ingested a foreign object, prompt veterinary evaluation is crucial.

Related: Frenchie throwing up foam (Here’s why)

3. Toxin or Poison Ingestion

Another serious cause of a Frenchie throwing up blood is poisoning.

Certain toxins, such as rodenticides (rat poison), chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free gum), or cleaning products, can cause internal bleeding and vomiting.

Common symptoms of poisoning include:

• Seizures or tremors

• Pale gums

• Excessive drooling

• Diarrhea (possibly with blood)

• Weakness or collapse

If you think your French Bulldog may have ingested something toxic, it’s an emergency that requires immediate medical attention.

4. Gastrointestinal Infections

Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections of the digestive tract can cause inflammation and damage to the mucosal lining, resulting in bloody vomit.

Conditions such as parvovirus, especially in puppies, or severe gastroenteritis can lead to a Frenchie vomiting blood and acting lethargic.

Symptoms of GI infections may include:

• Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)

• Fever

• Vomiting frequently

• Dehydration

A Frenchie throwing up blood due to an infection needs prompt diagnosis and supportive care, including fluids and antibiotics if necessary.

Related: Frenchie throwing up (Causes, sysmptoms and Care)

5. Clotting Disorders and Internal Bleeding

Blood clotting disorders, whether inherited or acquired, can lead to spontaneous bleeding.

French Bulldogs throwing up blood might be exhibiting symptoms of a clotting issue.

Conditions such as immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, liver disease, or poisoning with anticoagulants can prevent blood from clotting properly.

Indicators include:

• Bruising under the skin

• Nosebleeds

• Blood in urine or stool

• Lethargy and weakness

Bloodwork and coagulation tests are typically needed to identify these disorders.

6. Heatstroke or Heat Exhaustion

Because French Bulldogs are brachycephalic (short-nosed), they’re more prone to heatstroke.

Extreme overheating can cause damage to internal organs and even bleeding in the digestive tract.

Watch for signs such as:

• Heavy panting

• Vomiting (possibly with blood)

• Bright red gums

• Staggering or collapse

Never leave your Frenchie in a hot environment. If your dog shows signs of heatstroke and is throwing up blood, it’s a veterinary emergency.

7. Tumors or Cancer

While less common, cancerous growths in the stomach, intestines, or esophagus can cause bleeding that leads to a

Frenchie throwing up blood. This is more likely in older dogs or French Bulldogs with a history of gastrointestinal issues.

Signs may include:

• Chronic vomiting

• Weight loss

• Bloody stools

• Poor appetite

Diagnostic imaging and biopsy are often required to determine if a tumor is present.

8. Severe Vomiting or Coughing Leading to Esophageal Tears

Excessive vomiting or even violent coughing can cause small tears in the esophagus or upper digestive tract (Mallory-Weiss tears), which can lead to a Frenchie vomiting blood.

This is often accompanied by forceful retching or coughing fits.

Related: Frenchie throwing up yellow foam (What it means)

What the Blood Looks Like: Important Clues

• Bright red blood suggests fresh bleeding in the upper digestive tract, esophagus, or mouth.

• Dark, coffee-ground-like blood indicates partially digested blood, likely from the stomach or intestines.

• Streaks of blood in clear or foamy vomit may point to mild irritation or minor trauma.

Observing the color and consistency of the vomit can help your vet determine where the bleeding is coming from.

What To Do If Your Frenchie Is Throwing Up Blood

A Frenchie throwing up blood is always a cause for concern. Even if your dog seems otherwise okay, it’s important to err on the side of caution.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Withhold food and water until you’ve spoken to a vet, as further ingestion can worsen the issue.

2. Note other symptoms, like diarrhea, lethargy, or abdominal pain.

3. Check for possible toxin exposure, such as missing pills, chewed-up packaging, or access to human food.

4. Collect a sample of the vomit if possible, or take photos to show your vet.

5. Seek veterinary attention immediately, especially if your Frenchie is also showing signs of collapse, pale gums, or difficulty breathing.

When to Seek Emergency Help

You should seek emergency veterinary help if your Frenchie throwing up blood is accompanied by any of the following:

• Repeated or projectile vomiting

• Weakness, disorientation, or collapse

• Swollen or painful abdomen

• Pale gums

• Blood in stools or urine

• Exposure to toxins or unknown substances

• Vomiting along with diarrhea

Because French Bulldogs can deteriorate quickly when ill, especially with gastrointestinal or respiratory symptoms, prompt action can be life-saving.

Prevention Tips for a Healthy Frenchie

While not all causes of vomiting blood can be prevented, you can reduce the risk by:

• Feeding a consistent, high-quality diet suited for French Bulldogs’ sensitive stomachs

• Avoiding table scraps, bones, or indigestible chews

• Keeping toxins and medications far out of reach

• Monitoring your Frenchie’s behavior for early signs of illness

• Scheduling regular vet visits to catch any problems early

If your Frenchie has a history of stomach issues, work with your veterinarian to create a digestive health plan that includes probiotics, sensitive-stomach dog food, and preventive measures.

Key Takeaway: Frenchie Throwing Up Blood

A Frenchie throwing up blood is not something to ignore. From ulcers and toxins to infections or tumors, the underlying causes range from treatable to potentially life-threatening.

Always monitor additional symptoms, and seek prompt veterinary care to ensure your Frenchie receives the appropriate treatment.

Timely diagnosis and medical attention can make all the difference in your Frenchie’s recovery and overall health.

Stay alert, stay informed, and always trust your instincts when it comes to your dog’s wellbeing.

FAQs

Q: Can a Frenchie throwing up blood recover fully?
Yes, many Frenchies recover well once the cause is identified and properly treated, especially in cases of ulcers, infections, or mild ingestion incidents.

Q: Is throwing up blood painful for my Frenchie?
It can be uncomfortable or painful, especially if the cause is gastrointestinal damage or trauma. You may notice signs like whining, pacing, or refusal to eat.

Q: What should I feed a Frenchie after vomiting blood?
Only feed your Frenchie once your vet clears them to eat. Typically, a bland diet such as boiled chicken and rice is recommended for short-term recovery.