The Most Common Choking Hazards for Dogs

Dogs like to explore the world with their senses of smell and taste, so naturally, they will sometimes lick up things that they shouldn’t. Understanding the most common choking hazards for dogs can help you keep these items away from your pet and protect your dog’s health and safety.

Household Items That Pose Serious Risks

One of the most common and dangerous hazards for your pet is small household items. Dogs can swallow coins, hair ties, parts of your children’s toys, and just about anything else they can get their mouths around. Even if your dog is large enough not to immediately choke on these items, identifying when your dog has swallowed something it shouldn’t can help you take care of them and seek timely veterinary attention.

Larger dogs are more likely to swallow larger choking hazards such as socks or other clothing. Many dogs enjoy the sensory feel of these materials and will try to chew on them. Keep washcloths, rags, and other similar cloth items away from them to reduce the risk of choking.

Food-Related Choking Dangers

Simple foods that we eat everyday are also common choking hazards for dogs. Many people share food with their dogs, and while some of these foods are safe, you should always use caution. While dogs love bones, always avoid giving them bones from chicken, fish, or other poultry. These bones can splinter and crack as the dog eats them and lodge in their throat or create cuts and wounds from the inside.

Many dogs love ice cubes, and while these aren’t toxic, they can be choking hazards, particularly for small dogs that may try to swallow them whole. Even dog treats can become dangerous when they’re too large for your pet’s mouth or when dogs try to gulp them down too quickly.

Oversized Choking Hazards

One of the main things to consider is the size difference between an object and your dog’s mouth. Items that fit in your dog’s mouth but cannot be swallowed safely create the most dangerous scenarios. For example, a toy perfectly sized for a large German Shepherd could prove fatal for a Chihuahua.

A common risk are rawhide chews or similar treats. These treats may seem fine at first, but as dogs wear them down, they can eventually become potential choking hazards. Try to keep an eye on your pet as they eat, and remove the treat once it’s small enough to swallow whole. You can help keep your pet safe from choking hazards by regularly scanning floors and accessible surfaces for potential hazards.