Free checklist · printable

10 signs your dog needs the emergency vet now

Updated October 18, 2026 · Based on AVMA, Merck Veterinary Manual and ASPCA guidance · Independent veterinary review in progress

1. Swollen or hard belly + repeated retching with nothing coming upThis pattern can signal a life-threatening stomach emergency that can worsen fast. It's most common in large, deep-chested dogs, but any dog can be affected. Treat it as ER-now.
2. Trouble breathingGasping, struggling to breathe, breathing with the mouth open at rest, or a blue or gray tongue. Breathing problems are always an emergency.
3. Pale, white, gray, or blue gumsHealthy gums are usually pink. Lift the lip and look in good light. Pale or bluish gums can mean dangerously poor circulation or dangerously low oxygen.
4. Collapse, can't stand, or sudden severe weaknessA dog that suddenly can't get up, falls over, or seems “out of it” needs to be seen now.
5. A seizure lasting more than 3 minutes, or more than one in a dayTime it with your phone. Keep your hands away from the mouth and move the dog away from stairs or water. A first-ever seizure also warrants a call to a vet.
6. Ate or may have eaten something toxicChocolate, grapes or raisins, xylitol (sugar-free gum, some peanut butters), rat or mouse poison, human medications, antifreeze, cannabis, onions or garlic in quantity. Call a poison line or ER now — don't wait for symptoms, and don't make your dog vomit unless a professional tells you to.
7. Straining to pee with little or no urineEspecially in male dogs, this can be a life-threatening emergency.
8. Major trauma or bleeding that won't stopHit by a car, a bad fall, a deep bite wound, or bleeding that doesn't stop after 5 minutes of firm pressure. Injuries inside the body may not show right away.
9. Overheating / heat emergency signsHeavy panting, thick drooling, bright red or pale gums, stumbling, or vomiting after heat or exercise. Move to shade, offer water, cool with cool (not ice-cold) water, and drive to the ER.
10. Vomiting or diarrhea with blood, or can't keep water downRepeated vomiting, blood in vomit or stool, or vomiting everything including water can dehydrate a dog quickly — faster in puppies, seniors and small dogs.

What to do on the way

• Call the ER ahead. Say your dog's weight, age, what happened, and when it started. They can prepare.
• Bring the evidence. Packaging of anything eaten, a photo of vomit or stool, any medications your dog takes.
• Keep your dog still and warm (or cool, if overheated). Muzzle gently only if they might bite from pain and are breathing normally.
• Don't give human medications or make your dog vomit unless a vet or poison line tells you to.

Not on this list?

Many things can safely wait for your regular vet — but “wait” should come with a plan: what to watch, when to check again, and what would change your mind. That's what Vet or Wait is for. See how Vet or Wait works →

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Sources

• AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) — Pet first aid and emergencies: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/emergencycare
• Merck Veterinary Manual — Emergency care and first aid, pet owner version: https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control
• Pet Poison Helpline: https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/

This checklist is general information, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call a vet.