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My senior dog is vomiting black and has dark stool. Is it blood? What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog is a 13 year old Labrador and in the past week he has started to act weird. For instance he has vomitted 2-3 times in the past two days and it is very dark black color. His stool is very dark as well. I am worried about it being blood but am not sure. He refuses to walk down the stairs in our apartment so I have to carry him down now. He hasn't eaten much at all in the past two days. He has had trouble holding his bladder as well. I know he is getting older but not sure what is going on

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on February 18th, 2018

Poor guy! From your description, it definitely sounds like something is wrong. Vomiting dark black material and dark tarry stools are often signs of bleeding in the stomach or intestines, which can be extremely serious. Not eating and not wanting to walk down the stairs are vague signs that indicate he is in pain or not feeling well. I would strongly recommend taking your dog to the vet today for an exam, since this sounds like quite a serious problem. He/she can do blood work and x-rays if needed to help diagnose the problem and get him started on appropriate treatment.

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 16th, 2017

    My main concerns for Buddy at this time are the lethargy, excessive drinking and black stool. Lethargy and increased water consumption can certainly be associated with liver or kidney disease, but also with diabetes, Cushing's disease, sign of anemia (low red blood cell count), etc. Black stool is indicative of digested blood, typically from the stomach or small intestines and may be caused by an ulcer. These signs are all highly concerning and should be addressed by your vet ASAP!

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