What Exactly Is a “Foreign Object” in Veterinary Terms?
Veterinarians refer to any non-edible object that enters an animal’s body from outside as a foreign object. These can lodge themselves anywhere along the digestive tract—throat, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, or intestines—or even within a wound. Here, we’ll focus on the all-too-common scenario of a dog swallowing something it shouldn’t have.
Did you know dogs are much more likely to ingest foreign objects than cats? Their curious noses and tendency to explore the world with their mouths put them at greater risk.
My Dog Swallowed Something: What Are the Dangers?
Did your dog gulp down a sock? A chunk of plastic? Acting swiftly is vital. Swallowing foreign objects is far from harmless and can lead to severe health risks. Sadly, dogs see everything from bottle caps to pieces of glass as potential snacks—and their bodies can pay the price.
Depending on what was swallowed, your dog may face:
- Poisoning: Batteries, medications, some plants, or chemicals can be deadly if ingested.
- Digestive troubles: From mild stomach irritation—with diarrhea or vomiting—to severe blockages that completely obstruct the intestines. If the object forms a plug, it can stop everything, leading to dangerous complications.
An obstruction blocks the normal movement of feces, and a sharp item might even tear through the digestive tract, causing a life-threatening infection called peritonitis.
- Parasitic infections: If the object carries larvae or parasite eggs, your dog could become infected.
Sometimes, smaller objects like bits of fabric or tiny toys may pass through naturally—but don’t count on it.
Symptoms: How to Tell If Your Dog Has Swallowed Something
It’s rarely easy to know exactly what, or if, your dog has swallowed something. Symptoms can be subtle or confusing, but certain warning signs may tip you off to a problem.
The symptoms depend on where the object is stuck:
Foreign object in the stomach:
- Gradual decline in overall health if not treated
- Stomach irritation: diarrhea, constipation, vomiting
- Possible gastritis
- Loss of appetite
Blocked intestines:
- Bowel obstruction
- Lethargy
- Severe abdominal pain
- No stools passed
- Frequent vomiting
- Fever, if infection (peritonitis) sets in
Object stuck in the esophagus:
When a swallowed object becomes lodged in the esophagus, it can compress the windpipe, triggering breathing difficulties. Your dog may stop eating and could suffer from anorexia if the situation isn’t quickly handled by a vet.
If you notice these symptoms or even suspect your dog has swallowed an object, get them to the veterinarian without delay—the sooner the intervention, the better the odds for recovery.
What to Do If Your Dog Swallows a Foreign Object
As a dog owner, chances are you’ll face this challenge sooner or later. Knowing how to respond can make all the difference.
If your dog swallows something non-toxic (like dirt, small stones, bits of fabric, tiny toys), monitor closely to see if it passes naturally in the stool. Deworm your dog every two months rather than twice a year if this becomes a habit.
If your dog swallows something solid and shows symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, or pain—do not try to make them vomit. Bringing the object back up might cause more harm on the way out. Instead, call your veterinarian immediately for advice.
Sometimes, dogs cough as though something is stuck after swallowing even a small irritant—like a bit of dust. While this might be harmless, persistent coughing could point to foreign body ingestion, heart failure, or collapsing trachea. Either way, a proper veterinary exam is essential for a clear diagnosis and safe treatment.
React quickly—even at the faintest suspicion. Prompt veterinary care dramatically reduces the risks of long-term complications.
How to Stop Your Dog from Swallowing Objects
If your dog is repeatedly chewing and eating non-food items, it’s time to consult your vet. A medical issue—or a behavioral problem—could be to blame. Sometimes, blood or stool tests can rule out medical causes.
If behavior is the culprit—especially in puppies—proper training is essential. Get help from a professional dog trainer to set up an effective re-education program. Consistent guidance and positive reinforcement make a world of difference.
