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Why is my Shih Tzu vomiting yellow foam despite vet clearance?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | unneutered | 2 years old | 15 lbs

My Shih Tzu has an extremely sensitive stomach. Sometimes he vomits yellow foam before or after meals. We have taken him to a vet and he has been cleared of any major underlying issues. It was noted he had gas bubbles in his stomach. Medication has helped however the problem is returning. He eats dry biscuits and occasionally vegetables and red and white meat. Is there anything that could be causing this or any foods we should be giving him more of or avoiding.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 7th, 2017

I would ask your vet if they think Ziko may have inflammatory bowel disease. This disease can cause ongoing vomiting and/or diarrhea. I am attaching a link here to an article that discusses the condition in detail: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=2549. The treatment can range from a special hydrolyzed protein diet (your vet likely carries one in their office) to medications that decrease inflammation in the GI tract such as metronidazole, prednisone, budesonide, cyclosporine). Definitive diagnosis actually require a biopsy but sometimes we will treat if we are suspicious and then monitor response to treatment. I think it is worth discussing with your vet if this is a possibility with Ziko.

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    Answered By Emily, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This could be a case of something called biliary vomiting. This condition it tends to be more common in small breed dogs and can present as intermittent vomiting of yellow substance called bile. Sometimes we eating small frequent meals throughout the day helps. Other times there are certain prescription medications that can help prevent this issue. This is not usually related to a specific food or protein. If he is doing well otherwise you can try feeding small meals throughout the day and seeing if that helps this issue. If not you can speak to your veterinarian if biliary vomiting is likely and about the possibility of going on a long-term medication for this.

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