When your dog is vomiting saliva and refusing to eat, it’s more than just an upset stomach—it could point to a more serious underlying condition.
We outline the common causes of a dog throwing up saliva and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Throwing Up Saliva and Not Eating — Why It Happens
Dogs who vomit saliva and lose their appetite may be experiencing anything from digestive irritation to organ dysfunction. The most common causes include gastrointestinal inflammation, nausea from kidney or liver issues, foreign body ingestion, or even serious infections like parvovirus.
Sometimes, acid reflux or an empty stomach may also cause saliva vomiting, especially in the morning.
Dog Throwing Up Saliva and Not Eating: Common Causes
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It often leads to vomiting clear or foamy saliva, especially if the stomach is empty.
This condition is typically caused by viruses, bacteria, or eating something inappropriate like garbage or spoiled food.
In addition to vomiting and not eating, your dog may also have diarrhea, lethargy, and signs of abdominal discomfort.
Read more: Dog Keeps Throwing Up Water and Not Eating (Understand what’s going on)
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that causes nausea, vomiting, and appetite loss.
It often occurs after a dog eats something fatty, but it can also be triggered by medications or underlying health issues.
Affected dogs may vomit white or yellowish foam, act weak, and refuse to eat for days if not treated.
Foreign Body Obstruction
If your dog swallowed a toy, bone, or other object, it can block the intestines and cause vomiting and appetite loss.
Early signs may include vomiting saliva or bile, pacing, restlessness, and a tense abdomen.
As the condition progresses, your dog may become dehydrated and increasingly lethargic.
Kidney Disease
Dogs with kidney issues often feel nauseated and may vomit white foam or saliva.
They usually lose interest in food, become very tired, and drink more water than usual.
Chronic kidney disease can cause these symptoms slowly, while acute kidney injury causes them suddenly.
Empty Stomach or Acid Reflux
Some dogs vomit white or clear foam in the morning if their stomach has been empty for too long.
This is usually due to acid reflux or a sensitive digestive system.
While not always serious, frequent vomiting from an empty stomach can reduce appetite and lead to dehydration or malnutrition.
Parvovirus (Especially in Puppies)
Parvovirus is a highly contagious and dangerous viral illness, especially in unvaccinated dogs.
It begins with vomiting—often saliva or foam—followed by severe diarrhea and refusal to eat.
Immediate vet care is critical for survival.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Throwing Up Saliva and Not Eating
First, withhold food for 8–12 hours to give the stomach time to settle, but continue offering small amounts of water or ice cubes.
If your dog improves and shows interest in food, offer bland meals like plain boiled chicken and white rice in small portions.
Monitor for other symptoms like diarrhea, blood in vomit, weakness, or changes in behavior.
Keep your dog in a calm, quiet environment and make sure they stay hydrated.
You can try an over-the-counter acid reducer, like famotidine (Pepcid), but only under veterinary guidance.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek veterinary help if your dog:
Vomits more than once or continues retching with no output
Refuses food for over 24 hours
Appears weak, lethargic, or unresponsive
Has a swollen or painful abdomen
Shows signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, skin tenting)
Has diarrhea, especially if it’s bloody or severe
Prompt veterinary evaluation is crucial to identify whether the cause is minor or life-threatening.
Read more: Dog Vomiting, Not Eating or Drinking and Lethargic (When to worry and act fast)
Key Takeaway
Vomiting saliva combined with appetite loss can range from mild digestive upset to a serious medical emergency.
Watch for other symptoms, try gentle home care early on, and don’t hesitate to contact your vet if things worsen.
With timely care and attention, most dogs recover well from these episodes and get back to feeling like themselves.