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My dog won't eat or drink, has dark urine, and threw up. Vet needed?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog is not eating or drinking. His urine is dark but not bloody. He puked about 12 hours ago but wasn't bright yellow. It contained food chunks.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on July 13th, 2017

I'm sorry to hear that your dog is sick! Dark-colored urine is usually a sign of dehydration, which would make sense if he hasn't been eating or drinking today. These are very vague symptoms that could be caused by almost any kind of illness, so it's hard to say what might be wrong without being able to examine him and do some testing. If he had only vomited once and was acting normal otherwise (eating and drinking fine, active, etc.) I would suggest feeding a bland diet of plain boiled chicken and rice for the next day or two to see if this helps to settle his stomach. Since he isn't eating or drinking, however, I'm worried that something more serious may be going on. I'm also concerned that he will continue to become more dehydrated the longer this goes on, and unfortunately there isn't much you can do at home to help him if he won't take anything by mouth. For these reasons, I would really recommend taking your dog to the vet for an exam as soon as you are able to. It would be safest to go to an emergency clinic this evening, especially if he's also acting lethargic - if you aren't able to do this, I would try to see your regular vet first thing in the morning. You can try offering small amounts of low-sodium chicken or beef broth to drink in the meantime, as long as he doesn't vomit afterwards.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 18th, 2017

    Dark urine usually indicates that it is well concentrated sometimes due to dehydration. As long as it is not bloody I would not worry overly sbout this. Sometimes dogs will be sick once or twice due to tummy upset and it doesnt need any treatment. As long as he is bright amd in good form I would just monitor him. If the vomiting continues or he becomes dull make an appointment.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 27th, 2018

    Your dog may have a serious kidney or liver condition. This is an emergency. You need to take your dog to a veterinarian for an exam and blood work, and a urinalysis now. This may be life-threatening.

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