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What caused my 8-year-old dog's sudden death with blood and vomiting?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 3 lbs

Hi, my name is Raina and yesterday I found my toy yorkiepoo of 8 years dead in her cage. She had blood on one side of her mouth and was laying on her side. The only thing I can think of is that on occasion she would be lethargic and throw up but I thought it was just from her eating the wrong foods or old age. It was all so sudden I'm completely devastated because she was part of the family and we lost her too soon. Please any insight would be helpful. Thanks

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Anna M., DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 14th, 2017

Hi Raina. I'm so sorry to hear about Susu. I agree with Dr. Melanie that this could have been cancer - or it's also possible she had a slowly progressive chronic issue with an organ, such as kidney disease or heart disease. I just wanted to add that if it was helpful to you to have more concrete answers, many vets are willing to perform a necropsy (animal version of autopsy) for a pretty reasonable fee. If you call your nearest vet, they can let you know if that's an option. Sometimes having a more definitive answer can be helpful. Sorry again for your loss.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi Raina! First off, I am so sorry for your loss! How awful for you to find her dead like this, what a terrible loss. Please keep in mind that without seeing Susu in person, I can't say for certain what caused her to pass away, but it could be that she was suffering from cancer causing her to pass away. Cancer would cause her to be lethargic and throw up, and unfortunately it can take a long time for a dog to finally show signs of being sick. Sometimes dogs with cancer don't show any outward signs until after they are very ill and then suddenly pass away. Cancer is common in older dogs, and it is possible for an eight year old dog to have cancer. Again, I'm so sorry for your loss, please accept my condolences :-(

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