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Why is my dog throwing up every night at 3 AM? No diet change.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

My dog has been throwing up every night around 3 am. No recent changes in diet or daily routine. What's wrong?

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Answered By Debi Matlack

Veterinary Technician

Published on January 24th, 2016

[Vomiting](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/vomiting-1/) in dogs has multiple causes and can sometimes be a symptom of a greater underlying condition. In the absence of additional symptoms (lethargy, [diarrhea](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/diarrhea-1/), loss of appetite, abdominal pain), most cases of vomiting can be managed at home with a bland diet fed in small frequent amounts until symptoms resolve. Gradually transition over 5-7 days to the regular diet afterwards. If vomiting persists for 24 hours or more, or if new symptoms develop, a visit to your veterinarian is recommended. That said, what you have described may be a condition known as bilious vomiting syndrome. The exact cause is unknown and it can affect dogs of any breed or age. Too long of a time between meals is thought to contribute to the condition. [Bile](https://www.petcoach.co/article/diseases-of-the-gallbladder-bile-duct-in-dogs/), which is quite irritating, may enter the empty stomach and can cause vomiting. Pet parents report a foamy, yellow vomit late at night or early in the morning. Since Tickles has been [vomiting](https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-deal-with-chronic-vomiting-in-dogs) so frequently, an [exam with your veterinarian](https://www.petcoach.co/article/what-does-your-veterinarian-look-for-during-a-physical-exam) would be recommended to either confirm bilious vomiting syndrome or to diagnose and treat another cause. Blood work and abdominal x-rays may be suggested after the exam. A bland diet and antacids may be dispensed. Offering a small meal just before bedtime may help as well.

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