Common Causes of Choking in Pets

Hearing and seeing your dog choke can be a shocking and terrifying experience. Let’s take a look at the most common choking hazards for our pups and what we can do to prevent it.

Foreign Objects

Dogs explore by smelling and tasting. Anything smaller than the windpipe or back of the throat can get stuck and cause choking. This can be bits and pieces broken off of chew toys, balls, rawhides, bones, or sticks. This is why it’s important to only let your dog chew on things under supervision. If it gets down small enough to possibly swallow, it’s time to throw it out and get a new one.

Collapsing Trachea

Older small breeds of dogs are prone to choking by collapsing trachea. The trachea connects the nose and mouth with the lungs and become floppy. The harder your dog breathes, the more collapsed the trachea becomes. If your dog suffers from this condition, keep him thin and cool. Consult your vet if you think this could be the cause of your pet’s struggled breathing.

Infectious Disease

Kennel cough often causes dogs to cough as if they have something caught in their throat. It’s highly contagious and can get it easily if you don’t keep up on your pup’s yearly bordetella vaccinations. Puppies can get a swollen throat and lymph nodes, called puppy strangles. Flu-like symptoms often accompany this type of choking.

Constricted Collar

A well-fitted collar should allow two fingers to slip underneath. If the collar is too tight, your dog could begin to choke. If you have a growing pup, check often to make sure he isn’t growing out of his collar too fast. Some dogs pull on the leash on walks, causing coughing and choking. Leash training using a head halter or harness will help reduce pulling.

There are many things your dog can get into, especially as a young pup. If your dog is choking do your best to remain calm, as you could make him panic more. If he is still breathing, take him to the nearest vet; if he is not breathing, use the Heimlich maneuver on him. Do not try to reach in and grab the object unless your dog passes out, as he could panic and bite. If you can’t reach it, try a spoon. Call an emergency vet for advice while you handle your dog’s condition. Preventing your pooch from choking is a lot easier and much less stressful than dealing with a choking one.