What To Do If Your Dog Swallowed Something They Shouldn’t Have

Dogs frequently swallow things they shouldn’t—especially inquisitive pups and those who have a high chew drive (like Labrador Retrievers and Pit Bulls). 

Although some objects may be small enough to swallow and pass through the digestive tract with minor consequences, others may be toxic, get stuck, or do damage—in the mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, or intestines.  

If you’re unsure whether your dog could have ingested something, it’s recommended to be cautious and visit your veterinarian. 

If left untreated, swallowed objects can be fatal in dogs. 

If your dog swallowed something toxic or potentially toxic, such as antifreeze, chocolate, medications, supplements, rat poisons, or drugs in any form, contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 immediately. 

If your dog is having trouble breathing or has any other serious symptoms (like choking), contact your veterinarian right away. 

What Should I Do If My Dog Swallowed Something They Shouldn’t?

This will depend on what your dog ingested, how long ago it happened, and your dog’s symptoms. 

Here is a general guide for dealing with swallowed objects: 

1. If you know your dog swallowed an object, call your veterinarian immediately and take your dog to the vet’s office as soon as possible. The doctor may be able to induce vomiting or retrieve the object from the stomach before serious problems set in. 

• Never induce vomiting yourself without first speaking to a veterinarian. Many objects and chemicals are more dangerous if vomited.  

• If your dog swallowed something that might be poisonous, call the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 for guidance. 

2. If your dog is choking, check their mouth for foreign objects that may be lodged there. 

• If there is something lodged deep in the dog’s throat, do not try to pull it out. You will need to take your dog to the vet immediately to have them sedated so the object can be removed safely. 

• If you can see thread, string, or another form of cord hanging from the dog’s mouth, do not pull it or cut it. Pulling on the string may cause serious injury to the digestive tract. 

• If the swallowed object is sharp, do not try to remove it yourself. 

• If the dog is choking and you can’t see anything in the mouth, especially if the dog has become unconscious, skip to the perform the Heimlich maneuver on your pet. 

3. If you can see the object in your dog’s mouth, try to remove it only if it’s very easily accomplished without injury to yourself. 

4. Even with one hand on the upper jaw and the other on the lower, any dog can bite, so use every precaution. If you are working by yourself, keep an index finger on your lower hand free to perform step 5. 

5. Look inside the mouth and sweep your finger from the back of the mouth forward to try to remove the obstruction. 

6. Talk to your veterinarian or an after-hours veterinarian regarding follow-up care, even if you were able to remove the object. 

How Vets Treat a Dog That Has Swallowed Something They Shouldn’t

Treating a dog that has accidentally swallowed an object can vary from simply sedating the dog to performing gastrointestinal surgery. 

A veterinarian will be able to perform a physical examination and use X-rays, an ultrasound, or an endoscope to determine if your dog swallowed something and what it might be. 

Based on what it is and where it is in your pet’s body, your veterinarian may recommend surgery, endoscopic removal, or other forms of treatment. 

Sometimes dogs will eat something that is not necessarily toxic and does not cause a blockage, but it does lead to inflammation of the stomach or intestines. This resulting condition is called gastritis or gastroenteritis and is often managed with medications.  

Cerenia can help with nausea and vomiting (if the vet is sure nothing is stuck).  

Metronidazole may be prescribed for resulting bloody diarrhea if your pup happens to eat part of a small dead animal or rotten food.

A canned bland diet, like Hills Digestive Care i/d, may be recommended to help settle an upset GI tract.  

Probiotics, like Purina Fortiflora or Nutramax Proviable, may help restore healthy gut flora after your dog eats something they shouldn’t. 

How You Can Prevent Your Dog from Swallowing Something They Shouldn’t

If you’re worried about your dog swallowing something dangerous, here are some preventive measures you can take: 

• Always supervise your dog while they’re chewing on toys or treats. 

• Avoid keeping well-chewed dog toys around your home that can break apart easily. 

• Be diligent in picking up items such as socks and underwear. 

• Remove large pits from fruit and dispose of them safely. 

• Take away chew toys and natural chews before they reach a size small enough to fit fully inside your dog’s mouth. 

• Don’t leave dog toys lying around when you are not home to supervise. 

• Place garbage cans, medications, and other dangerous substances behind closed (and locked) doors. 

• Keep your dog in a crate or another safe environment when they can’t be supervised. 

For the times when you know your dog will be surrounded by temptation, a basket muzzle can be a lifesaver. 

Dogs must always be supervised when wearing any type of muzzle, but this type allows your dog to breathe freely, pant, and even drink water—all while preventing them from eating anything they shouldn’t.