Dog choking what to do

What To Do If Your Dog Is Choking

If your dog is choking, acting quickly and staying calm can save their life.

This guide will help you recognise the signs and take the right steps immediately.

How To Tell If Your Dog Is Choking

Dogs that are choking may show the following signs:

  • Struggling to breathe
  • Pawing at their mouth
  • Gagging or choking sounds
  • Blue or pale gums
  • Panic or distress
  • Collapse (in severe cases)

If your dog is coughing but still breathing, they may not be choking.

What To Do Immediately

If you suspect your dog is choking, follow these steps:

  1. Stay calm and approach your dog carefully
  2. Open their mouth and check for a visible obstruction
  3. If you can clearly see the object, carefully remove it using forceps or a tool
  4. Do NOT use your fingers unless absolutely necessary (risk of being bitten)
  5. If the object cannot be removed, seek emergency veterinary help immediately

If Your Dog Is Unconscious

If your dog collapses or becomes unresponsive:

  • Check the airway immediately
  • Remove any visible blockage if safe to do so
  • Begin CPR if they are not breathing
  • Contact your vet urgently

The Heimlich Technique for Dogs

If the obstruction cannot be removed and your dog is conscious:

  • For small dogs: hold them with their back against your chest and apply firm pressure just below the ribcage
  • For larger dogs: place your hands under the ribcage and push inward and upward
  • Repeat carefully until the object is dislodged or help arrives

Be careful — excessive force can cause injury.

After the Object Is Removed

Even if your dog appears to recover:

  • Check their breathing
  • Keep them calm and still
  • Take them to a vet immediately for a check-up

When to Call the Vet

You should contact your vet immediately if:

  • Your dog cannot breathe
  • The object cannot be removed
  • Your dog collapses
  • Your dog shows signs of distress after the incident

Stay Calm and Act Quickly

Choking can become life-threatening within minutes.

Your calm, quick response can make all the difference.

If you are unsure at any point, contact your vet immediately.

Helpful Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my dog is choking?
Signs include difficulty breathing, pawing at the mouth, gagging, and distress. Severe cases may involve collapse.

Should I use my fingers to remove an object?
Only if absolutely necessary. Dogs may bite when in distress, so use caution.

Can dogs survive choking?
Yes, if treated quickly. Immediate action is critical to prevent serious harm.

What is the Heimlich technique for dogs?
It involves applying pressure below the ribcage to force air from the lungs and dislodge the obstruction.

Do I still need a vet after choking?
Yes. Even if your dog recovers, internal injury or airway damage is possible.