What To Do If Your Dog Is Choking - Petful
What To Do If Your Dog Is Choking: Emergency Tips Every Pet Parent Must Know
Learn how to recognize the signs of choking in dogs, the exact steps to take in an emergency, how to prevent choking hazards, and why supervised chewing and CPR training could save your pet's life.
How to Tell If Your Dog Is Choking
Choking is different from reverse sneezing or gagging. Warning signs include pawing at the mouth, wide eyes, inability to make noise, and visible distress. If your dog shows these symptoms, assume a complete airway blockage and act immediately.
Steps to Take If Your Dog Is Choking
- Stay calm and assess: Your demeanor affects your dog. Quickly determine if they're truly choking.
- Check their mouth: If safe, open the mouth and look for obstructions. Avoid pushing objects further down.
- Finger sweep only if visible: Use a gentle side-to-side finger motion if the object is reachable.
- Attempt CPR if trained: If the object isn’t visible, knowing pet CPR may help dislodge it.
- Call your vet: Always consult a veterinarian—even if the object is removed successfully—to check for throat damage or inflammation.
How to Prevent Your Dog From Choking
- Know your dog’s chewing habits—aggressive chewers should avoid small or splinter-prone items.
- Use safety holders for bully sticks or chews, like the Bow Wow Buddy.
- Choose chew toys or treats appropriate to your dog’s size and strength.
- Supervise your dog with any edible item—even familiar ones.
- Avoid balls or toys that can fit entirely in your dog’s mouth.
Common Choking Hazards
Dogs most often choke on bully sticks, rawhide, bones, balls, plastic wrap, and small chews. Cats are at risk from items like hair ties, string, and tinsel. Always remove non-edible household hazards.
Should You Perform CPR or the Heimlich?
Yes—if you're trained. Experts strongly recommend every pet parent take a certified CPR course, either online through the Red Cross or in-person using a pet mannequin.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving pets unsupervised with chews or toys.
- Assuming familiar treats can’t cause problems.
- Using tools to extract a visible obstruction.
- Offering toys or chews that are too small for your pet’s mouth.
Additional Safety Resources
Carol Bryant is a pet safety expert and founder of FidoseofReality.com. This content is based on expert interviews and real-world emergency guidance.