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My dog has yellow gums, won't eat/drink, and is weak. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 11 months and 18 days old | 60 lbs

My dog it's peeing a dark yellow, his gums are yellow, he won't eat or drink. He can't stand for long what is wrong with him? ?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 20th, 2016

Peeing a dark yellow is a sign of dehydration, while yellow gums indicate jaundice. This can be caused by toxins, hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), massive damage to the liver, or systemic infection among other causes. It is a medical emergency that Poncho has yellow gums, he won't eat or drink, and he can't stand for long. He is quite sick and he needs medical attention immediately. Please take him into an ER vet now.

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    Oh dear! These are very concerning signs. The yellow color is called jaundice, and is normally due to either severe liver disease, or an autoimmune disease called IMHA (auto-immune hemolytic anemia). Both of these are life-threatening illnesses that need immediate treatment for the best chance of survival. I would recommend taking Poncho to an emergency vet immediately - he/she can do blood work to help diagnose the problem and get him started on appropriate treatment right away.

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