Seeing your dog vomit is always concerning — and when it’s white foam, it can be even more alarming. The good news? It’s not always serious. But sometimes, white foamy vomit is your dog’s way of saying, “Something’s not right.”
In this guide, we’ll break down why dogs vomit white foam, what causes it, what you can do at home, and when you should call a vet.
🧼 What Is White Foam Vomit in Dogs?
White foam in dog vomit is usually a mix of saliva and stomach acid. It often appears bubbly or frothy and may be coughed up after retching or dry heaving.
🔍 Common Causes of White Foam Vomiting in Dogs
1. Empty Stomach / Acid Reflux
- Dogs may vomit white foam when they haven't eaten for a while.
- Stomach acid builds up, causing nausea or irritation.
💡 Tip: Feeding smaller, more frequent meals can help sensitive dogs.
2. Indigestion or Dietary Changes
- A sudden change in food or eating something unusual (like grass or scraps) can upset the stomach.
Watch for:
- Vomiting shortly after eating
- Mild lethargy or bloating
3. Kennel Cough or Respiratory Illness
- If your dog is coughing and gagging, it may bring up white foam.
- Often seen in dogs that have been in kennels, daycares, or parks.
Symptoms include:
- Dry hacking cough
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
4. Pancreatitis
- Inflammation of the pancreas can cause foamy vomiting, especially after eating fatty foods.
Other signs:
- Lethargy
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
⚠️ This requires immediate vet attention.
5. Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
- A life-threatening emergency where the stomach twists.
- Vomiting white foam with a distended belly is a red flag.
Call a vet immediately if your dog shows:
- Restlessness
- Rapid breathing
- Swollen abdomen
- Inability to vomit
6. Toxins or Poisoning
- Ingesting cleaning products, plants, or other toxins can cause foamy vomiting.
- This is an emergency — call poison control or a vet straight away.
🏠 What You Can Do at Home
If your dog throws up white foam once, but is otherwise happy and eating:
- Monitor for 24 hours
- Offer water
- Withhold food for 6–12 hours, then give a bland diet (boiled chicken and rice)
🚨 When to See a Vet
Book a consult if your dog:
- Vomits more than once
- Shows other symptoms (diarrhoea, lethargy, bloating)
- Has known health conditions
- Is a puppy, senior, or small breed (they dehydrate quickly)
💬 Final Thoughts
One-off vomiting isn't usually cause for panic, but repeated or foamy vomiting could mean something more serious. Trust your gut — and your dog’s behaviour.
👩⚕️ Need Expert Help?
Book a $49 online vet consultation with Dial A Vet. Our licensed Australian vets can assess your dog over video and help you decide what to do next.
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🧠 FAQs
Q1: What should I do if my dog vomits white foam once?
Monitor closely. If your dog is still happy and eating, it’s likely not serious.
Q2: Is it normal for dogs to vomit white foam in the morning?
Yes, it may be caused by an empty stomach or acid buildup overnight.
Q3: Can I give my dog anything at home?
You can try a bland diet after a 6-hour fast, but always check with a vet first.
Q4: Should I worry if my puppy throws up white foam?
Yes. Puppies are more at risk of dehydration or serious illness. Book a consult.
Q5: What if the vomiting continues?
Repeated vomiting is not normal. Speak to a vet ASAP.
📚 Citations
- Australian Veterinary Association. (2023). Vomiting in Dogs: Causes and Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.ava.com.au
- RSPCA Australia. (2022). What to do if your pet is vomiting. Retrieved from https://www.rspca.org.au
- MSD Veterinary Manual. (2023). Gastrointestinal Disorders in Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.msdvetmanual.com
