What to do if your dog swallows something
A foreign body obstruction in dogs occurs when a non-digestible object, like a toy or bone, blocks the digestive tract, preventing food and waste from passing through.
Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published May 2025 | Review date May 2027 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Symptoms of intestinal blockage in dogs
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Tiredness
Poor appetite
Tummy pain
Straining to defecate
Other signs: drooling, weight loss, breathing problems, and a swollen abdomen can also be indicators.
When to contact your vet
If you suspect your dog has swallowed a foreign object that could cause a bowel obstruction, contact your vet immediately. Bowel obstructions can be life-threatening and require prompt veterinary attention. Signs of an obstruction include vomiting, diarrhea, straining to poop, not eating, and abdominal pain.
Diagnosis
Clinical examination: your vet will assess your dog's overall condition and may be able to touch and feel its abdomen.
Medical history: your description of your dog's symptoms and potential exposure to foreign objects is crucial.
Diagnostic Imaging
Abdominal X-rays: can help visualise the foreign body and determine its location and nature.
Ultrasound: can provide more detailed images, especially for soft tissue structures.
Blood and urine tests: these tests can help rule out other conditions and assess your dog's overall health.
Treatment
Medical management: in some cases, a partial obstruction may resolve on its own with supportive care, such as a diet change.
Surgical intervention: is often necessary for complete obstructions or when the foreign body is causing complications like tissue damage or perforation.
Post-operative care: this may include medication, IV fluids, and dietary adjustments.
Prevention
Keep small, chewable objects out of your dog's reach.
Avoid giving your dog items that can be easily swallowed, such as small bones or small toys.
Supervise your dog during playtime to prevent ingestion of inappropriate items.
Train your dog to avoid scavenging or eating things they shouldn't.
Outlook
The outlook of a bowel foreign body obstruction depends on the severity of the obstruction, its location in the bowel tract, the type of foreign body and how long the obstruction has been present. The best outcomes occur when the obstruction is diagnosed and removed promptly.
Foreign bodies like strings (known as linear foreign bodies) pose a higher risk of complications. These may include the need for bowel resection and an increased likelihood of inflammation (peritonitis) and infection (sepsis) within the abdominal cavity.