What To Do If Your Dog Is Choking

Imagine the terrifying sound of your dog struggling to breathe, their eyes wide with panic as they desperately paw at their mouth. Choking is a frightening emergency for both you and your beloved pet, and knowing how to react swiftly and effectively can mean the difference between life and death. Dogs, with their curious nature and tendency to explore the world with their mouths, are prone to swallowing objects that can become lodged in their airways.

While rushing to the nearest veterinary clinic is always the best course of action, those precious minutes before you arrive could be crucial. Equipping yourself with the knowledge of proper first-aid techniques for a choking dog empowers you to act quickly and decisively, potentially dislodging the obstruction and restoring their breathing. This guide will provide you with essential steps to take, giving you the confidence to help your furry friend in a critical situation.

What are the signs of choking and how can I help my dog?

How can I tell if my dog is truly choking and not just coughing?

True choking in dogs is a life-threatening emergency characterized by obvious signs of respiratory distress. The key difference between coughing and choking lies in the severity and type of symptoms. A coughing dog will typically still be able to breathe, though perhaps with some difficulty, and will be actively trying to expel something from their throat or lungs. A choking dog, however, will exhibit much more pronounced and alarming symptoms indicating a complete or near-complete blockage of their airway.

When a dog is truly choking, you will likely observe panicked behavior. They may paw at their mouth, drool excessively, and their gums might turn blue (cyanosis) due to lack of oxygen. You may hear high-pitched squeaking noises as they struggle to breathe, or they may be unable to make any sound at all. This is in stark contrast to a dog who is coughing, who will usually still be able to bark or make other vocalizations, even if they sound strained. Coughing usually involves a forceful expulsion of air, whereas choking involves a desperate and often silent attempt to inhale. If you are unsure whether your dog is choking or coughing, observe them closely for a few seconds, but act immediately if you see signs of severe respiratory distress. Any difficulty breathing should be taken seriously, and prompt action is crucial. If the dog is unable to breathe and shows signs of cyanosis, you must intervene immediately and seek emergency veterinary care. Time is of the essence in such situations, and any delay could be fatal.

What's the best way to perform the Heimlich maneuver on a dog?

The best way to perform the Heimlich maneuver on a dog depends on the dog's size. For small dogs, hold them upside down and apply a sharp thrust just below the rib cage. For larger dogs, use a similar approach as on a human: wrap your arms around the dog's abdomen, make a fist, and thrust upward and inward just behind the ribs. After each attempt, check the mouth for any dislodged object.

For small dogs, hold the dog upside down by its hind legs, supporting its chest with your other hand. Deliver a sharp, quick thrust upward and inward just below the rib cage. The force should be adjusted to the size of the dog – gentler for very small breeds. Gravity can also help dislodge the object. After each thrust, check the dog's mouth to see if the obstruction has been expelled. For larger dogs, if they are standing, kneel behind them. Wrap your arms around their abdomen, placing a fist below the lowest rib and grasping the fist with your other hand. Deliver a quick, forceful upward and inward thrust. If the dog is lying down, place one hand on their back for support and use your other hand to perform the thrusting motion from the side. Again, check the mouth after each attempt. Remember to remain calm, even though it's a stressful situation. If the Heimlich maneuver is unsuccessful, and your dog is still choking, seek immediate veterinary attention. Every second counts in these situations, and a vet may have specialized tools or techniques to assist. If possible, transport the dog with its head down to further encourage the object to dislodge.

If I dislodge the object, what aftercare does my dog need?

Even if you successfully dislodge the object, immediate veterinary attention is crucial. Your dog needs to be thoroughly examined for any internal injuries to the throat, larynx, trachea, or esophagus caused by the choking or your rescue attempts. Complications like aspiration pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs due to inhaling foreign material) can develop quickly and require prompt treatment.

After successfully dislodging a foreign object, your dog may appear relieved, but underlying injuries could be masked by adrenaline. A veterinarian will check your dog's breathing, listen to their lungs for any signs of aspiration pneumonia, examine their mouth and throat for lacerations or swelling, and assess their overall condition. They may also recommend X-rays to rule out any damage to the esophagus or lungs. Depending on the severity of the situation, the vet might administer oxygen therapy, antibiotics to prevent infection, or anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling. Observe your dog closely for the next 24-48 hours, even after a veterinary visit. Watch for signs like persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, gagging, lethargy, loss of appetite, or any discharge from the nose or mouth. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. Offer small amounts of water frequently and feed a bland, easily digestible diet (like boiled chicken and rice) for a few days to allow the throat and esophagus to heal. Avoid giving hard treats or toys that could cause further irritation.

What if I can't see the object lodged in my dog's throat?

If you can't see the object obstructing your dog's airway, do not blindly reach into their mouth. This can push the object further down, causing more harm, or result in a bite. Instead, immediately perform the Heimlich maneuver for dogs.

If your dog is choking but you can't visualize the obstruction, acting quickly and decisively is critical. The Heimlich maneuver aims to dislodge the object using abdominal thrusts. For small to medium-sized dogs, hold them upside down by their hind legs and gently thrust upwards towards their abdomen, just behind their rib cage, 5-6 times. Then, sweep their mouth to check if the object is dislodged, but only if you can now safely visualize it. For larger dogs, keep them standing or lying on their side. Place a closed fist against their abdomen, just behind the ribcage, and thrust upwards towards the diaphragm with a quick, forceful motion. Repeat 5-6 times and then check the mouth. Regardless of whether you successfully dislodge the object, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary care. Even if your dog appears to be breathing normally after the Heimlich maneuver, there could be internal injuries, aspiration pneumonia, or lingering fragments of the object that need professional attention. Explain to the vet what happened and what steps you took. Time is of the essence, so call ahead to the veterinary clinic or emergency animal hospital to let them know you are on your way and that your dog has been choking. This will allow them to prepare for your arrival and administer the appropriate treatment as quickly as possible.

Are there different choking hazards for puppies versus adult dogs?

Yes, there are definitely different choking hazards for puppies compared to adult dogs. Puppies, with their smaller size and more exploratory chewing habits, are at a higher risk from small objects they can easily swallow, like children's toys, small balls, or pieces of rope. Adult dogs may be more prone to choking on larger items, such as rawhide chews, bones, or food that hasn't been properly broken down.

Puppies are naturally curious and use their mouths to investigate the world around them. This oral fixation, coupled with their smaller airways, makes them particularly vulnerable to choking on anything small enough to fit in their mouths. Common culprits include small toys (especially those with detachable parts), buttons, coins, and even pebbles. It's crucial to puppy-proof your home by removing any potential hazards within their reach. Adult dogs, while generally less indiscriminate in their chewing habits, can still encounter choking hazards. These often involve larger, edible items that can get lodged in their throat, particularly if the dog is a fast eater or prone to gulping.

For adult dogs, bones, especially cooked bones that can splinter, and large rawhide chews can pose a significant risk. These items can break into pieces and become lodged in the esophagus or trachea. Similarly, some dogs may choke on large chunks of food, especially if they eat too quickly. Consider using slow-feeder bowls or puzzle toys to encourage slower eating and prevent gulping. Furthermore, ensure all toys are size-appropriate and durable enough to withstand your dog's chewing habits. Regularly inspect toys for damage and discard them when they start to break down.

What to do if your dog is choking:

When is it necessary to take my choking dog to the vet immediately?

You should take your choking dog to the vet immediately if the object is not dislodged after attempting the Heimlich maneuver or other first-aid techniques, if your dog loses consciousness, if breathing does not return to normal after the object is dislodged, or if you suspect any injury to the airway.

Even if you successfully dislodge the object, it's crucial to monitor your dog closely. The trauma of choking can cause inflammation or minor injuries to the throat and trachea. A vet can assess for any lingering damage, such as aspiration pneumonia (caused by inhaling foreign material), which can develop even after the immediate choking episode has resolved. Watch for signs like coughing, wheezing, labored breathing, lethargy, or loss of appetite in the hours following the incident. These could indicate that further veterinary intervention is needed. Ultimately, erring on the side of caution is always recommended. Transporting your dog to the vet while attempting first aid is often a viable approach. Have someone else drive while you focus on assisting your dog. Call the vet on your way to alert them to the situation so they can prepare for your arrival. The quicker your dog receives professional medical attention, the better their chances of a full recovery.

Can I prevent my dog from choking in the first place?

Yes, while you can’t eliminate all risk, there are several steps you can take to significantly reduce your dog's chances of choking. Focusing on careful toy selection, responsible feeding practices, and preventing access to dangerous items are key.

Careful toy selection is paramount. Avoid toys that are easily shredded or broken into small pieces, especially those made of soft plastic, foam, or brittle materials. Choose toys made from durable materials like hard rubber or rope, and always supervise your dog during playtime, especially when introducing a new toy. Regularly inspect toys for damage and discard them immediately if they show signs of wear or tear. Be mindful of size; toys should be appropriately sized for your dog breed, too large to be swallowed whole, but not so large they can't be easily manipulated and chewed. Responsible feeding practices also play a crucial role. If your dog tends to gulp down food quickly, consider using a slow-feed bowl or puzzle feeder. These devices force your dog to eat more slowly, reducing the risk of choking or bloat. Avoid giving your dog large bones or raw hides, as these can splinter and become lodged in their throat. Cut up large pieces of meat or vegetables into smaller, more manageable sizes. Also, make sure that water is always readily available to help food go down smoothly. Finally, take steps to prevent your dog from accessing dangerous items. This includes keeping small objects like coins, buttons, rubber bands, children's toys, and trash out of their reach. Supervise your dog when they are outdoors to prevent them from scavenging potentially hazardous items. Keep medications and household cleaning products securely stored away. Dog-proofing your home is an ongoing process and requires vigilance, but it can significantly reduce the risk of choking and other accidents.

That's the gist of it! We hope this helps you feel a little more prepared should the unthinkable happen. Thanks for reading, and remember, we're always adding helpful tips and tricks for your furry friends, so come back and visit us soon!