PupkeeperFirst aid
Swallowed sock, toy or other object: dog first aid
Use this when your dog has swallowed something it shouldn't, like a sock, hair tie, toy, string or bone, or seems blocked up.
Get your dog to a vet as soon as you can
Find an emergency vetKey facts
- Verdict
- First aid · Emergency: get help now
- Signs
- Vomiting, diarrhea, painful belly, or growling when touched there, not eating and straining or not pooping. All 6
- First step
- Call your vet right away for an emergency appointment, even if your dog seems fine. All steps
- Sources
- PDSA, Merck Veterinary Manual, VCA Animal Hospitals. Reviewed 9 October 2026.
What to do
- Call your vet right away for an emergency appointment, even if your dog seems fine.
- Tell the vet what was swallowed, about how big it was and when.
- If string or fishing line hangs from the mouth, leave it and see the vet right away.
- Go straight in if your dog keeps vomiting, has a sore belly or stops pooping.
Don't
- Don't try to make your dog sick at home.
- Don't pull on string, thread or fishing line. It can tear the gut.
- Don't wait to see if the object passes.
Signs
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Painful belly, or growling when touched there
- Not eating
- Straining or not pooping
- Low energy
Why
Objects can block the stomach or gut and cut off its blood supply, which can be life-threatening. String and fishing line can tear the intestines.
Sources
- PDSA: Gut Blockage (Foreign Body) in Dogs
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Minor Injuries and Accidents
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Ingestion of Foreign Bodies in Dogs
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.