Most dog owners agree that their furry friends love to eat things they shouldn’t. From socks to toys, dogs seem to think everything is food.
But when a dog swallows something they can’t digest, it can create a dangerous blockage in their digestive system. So how do I know if my dog ate something and has a blockage?
This blog aims to help pet owners recognize the warning signs that may indicate their dog has a blockage.
These symptoms can help owners act quickly and potentially save their pet’s life.
In this blog, readers will learn the key symptoms to watch for, when to call the vet, and what steps to take if they suspect their dog has eaten something harmful.
What Is an Intestinal Blockage in Dogs?
An intestinal blockage in dogs is a life-threatening condition where an obstruction prevents normal passage of food and waste through the digestive tract.
There are two types: complete blockages (nothing passes through) and partial blockages (limited passage).
Most blockages occur in the small intestine and are caused by swallowed foreign objects like toys, bones, socks, or string, though medical conditions like tumors or intussusception can also cause them.
Linear objects such as a string are especially dangerous as they can cause intestinal perforation.
Dogs with blockages typically show persistent vomiting, loss of appetite, inability to defecate, abdominal pain, and lethargy.
This is a veterinary emergency requiring immediate surgical intervention, as untreated blockages can cause tissue death, intestinal rupture, and death within 24-72 hours.
Symptoms of Intestinal Blockage in Dogs
These dog blockage symptoms often start mild but get worse quickly.
1. Loss of Appetite: Your dog may suddenly refuse or lose interest in food. They might try to eat but quickly stop or vomit afterward. This usually occurs because eating causes discomfort.
2. Vomiting: Often, repetitive and frequent vomiting is one of the first red flags. It might include undigested food, bile, or just fluid. Vomiting is tiring and can quickly lead to dehydration.
3. Lethargy: Your dog may seem unusually tired, less playful, or less interested in walks and activities. This tiredness often results from feeling sick and weakness from vomiting.
4. Abdominal Pain: Your dog may whine, cry, or show signs of discomfort when you touch its belly. Sometimes the dog may arch its back or hunch over to try to ease the pain.
5. Dehydration: Signs of dehydration include dry gums, sunken eyes, sticky saliva, and skin that doesn’t quickly snap back when gently pinched.
6. Straining or Unable to Defecate: Trying hard but not being able to poop at all or very little.
7. Extreme Weakness or Collapse: Severe signs like collapse or unusual behavior indicate the condition has become critical.
Causes of an Intestinal Blockage in Dogs
Dogs can develop blockages from many different sources. Understanding these causes helps pet owners prevent dangerous situations.
Common Household Items
Many everyday objects become serious threats when dogs swallow them:
- Toys and balls – Rubber toys, tennis balls, or small plastic pieces break down and get stuck
- Clothing items – Socks, underwear, and fabric pieces are frequent problems
- Bones – Cooked bones splinter easily and cause blockages or tears
- Food packaging – Plastic wrap, aluminum foil, and food containers
- Personal items – Hair ties, jewelry, coins, and small electronics
Dogs don’t understand what’s safe to eat. They follow their instincts and swallow interesting objects.
Medical Causes
Sometimes blockages happen due to health conditions:
- Intestinal Tumors or Masses: Growths in the intestines can grow large enough to block the passage of food.
- Intussusception: This happens when one part of the intestine “telescopes” into a nearby section, stopping the flow inside. It’s seen mostly in young dogs.
- Intestinal Twists (Torsion): Twisting of the intestines or stomach leads to obstruction and is a serious emergency.
- Strictures or Scar Tissue: Narrowing of the intestines from previous injury, inflammation, or surgery may cause blockages.
- Severe Inflammation or Parasites: Infections and parasite infestations can cause swelling and block the intestines.
Treatment for an Intestinal Blockage in Dogs
When pet owners suspect their dog has a blockage, vets use several methods to confirm the diagnosis and create a treatment plan.
| Treatment Type | Description | When Used | Notes on Recovery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supportive Care | IV fluids to rehydrate, medications for nausea, pain relief, and electrolyte correction | Early stage, partial blockage, or while preparing for surgery | Helps stabilize the dog; does not remove the blockage |
| Monitoring | Observing if small, smooth foreign objects pass naturally with fluids and medication | Partial blockages, less severe cases | Frequent vet checks and imaging needed |
| Surgery | Abdominal surgery to locate and remove blockage; may involve cutting the intestine (enterotomy) or removing damaged sections (resection) | Complete blockages or objects that won’t pass naturally | Requires hospitalization and post-op care |
| Endoscopy | Using a camera and tools inserted through the mouth/stomach to retrieve the blockage | Blockages in the upper small intestine; less invasive option | Quicker recovery than surgery when applicable |
Preventing Intestinal Blockages in Dogs
The best way to handle blockages is to stop them before they happen. Smart prevention saves dogs from pain and owners from expensive vet bills. Most blockages are completely avoidable with the right precautions.
- Safe Toys and Chews: Choose durable, size-appropriate toys and avoid small or easily broken items that can be swallowed.
- Secure Small Items: Keep socks, jewelry, strings, and other small objects out of your dog’s reach.
- Lock Up Trash and Food: Use lidded bins and store human food scraps where your dog can’t access them.
- Feed Balanced Meals: Provide complete, vet-recommended diets to promote healthy digestion.
- Avoid Table Scraps: Refrain from feeding your dog foods like bones, corn cobs, or fruit pits that can cause blockages.
- Train “Leave It” Command: Teach your dog to ignore or drop objects on command to prevent them from picking up dangerous items.
Conclusion
Dog blockages are serious medical emergencies that require quick action from pet owners.
So, how does one know if their dog ate something and has a blockage?
Most blockages are completely preventable. By keeping dangerous items away from dogs, choosing appropriate toys, and maintaining regular feeding schedules, pet owners can protect their furry family members.
If you notice any warning signs in your dog, don’t wait to see what happens.
Contact your veterinarian immediately. Early intervention saves lives and reduces treatment costs.
Your dog’s health depends on your ability to act fast when something goes wrong.
