Choking in dogs occurs when they struggle to breathe. This can be due to a blockage in their windpipe (trachea) or something in the esophagus pressing on the windpipe so it can’t open normally. When the trachea is blocked, it is unable to allow the dog to breathe comfortably. When a dog is truly choking, it will physically struggle to take in air. Coughing and gagging are often confused with choking, especially the cough that comes with infectious tracheobronchitis. Yet, choking in dogs is rare. However, they can spit food materials stuck in their airways.
Symptoms of choking in dogs
- Pawing at the face and head
- Struggling to breathe in
- Making choking sounds, such as gagging
- Drooling
- Excessive coughing with distress
- Blue tint to gums
- Loss of consciousness
What are the 5 Common Causes of Choking in Dogs

-  When pups or dogs play or fetch, there is a tendency to get a ball stuck in the back of their throat if they grab it too forcefully or swallow it by mistake. It’s a common cause of dog choking.
- You know that pups are very naughty at tolerating the instinct of chewing. They may try to swallow something that is too large and causes pressure on the windpipe. The object can therefore get stuck in the esophagus and lead to choking.
- Brachycephalic dogs, like English Bulldogs, have short skulls and flat noses, which can impair breathing and lead to choking. These breeds are prone to BAOS, where their nasal, throat and tracheal anatomy restricts oxygen flow, especially during heat or exertion.
- Dogs can accidentally strangle themselves when their airway is constricted by cords, tie-outs, or collars caught in fences, kennels, or during play.
- Smoke from fires irritates the windpipe and lungs, causing airway swelling and choking, even after rescue from the hazardous environment.
How To Help Your Dog If It’s Choking

- Check their gum color and make sure whether it’s pink. If your dog’s gum is pink and it breathes normally, but coughs or gages when breathing out implies that they are having another issue.
- If your dog’s gums have a purple or blue tint, get them to a veterinary hospital immediately. If your pup has infectious respiratory diseases like kennel cough, it can lead to so much coughing that it may look like choking.
- If your dog breathes normally when it is not coughing, call your veterinarian to discuss getting your pup seen immediately. If you have a brachycephalic breed, struggling to breathe, you must keep them as calm and cool as possible while you rush them to the vet.
- Turn the air conditioner on high while you travel and consider wetting their ears with cold water before loading them in the car.
- If your dog is struggling to breathe, pawing at their face, and seeming distressed, consider a finger sweep if it’s safe to do so.
- For a ball stuck in the throat, use your thumbs to apply pressure from the outside behind the ball to pop it out.
- If your dog can breathe around the object, take them to the vet immediately for professional removal.
- If your dog is unconscious, you may need to perform the Heimlich maneuver to dislodge the object.
Dog Heimlich Maneuver To Help Prevent Choking in Dogs
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Supervise Chewing Sessions: Always keep an eye on your dog when they are chewing on bones or toys. If they attempt to swallow large pieces instead of simply gnawing on them, take the item away immediately to avoid a potential choking hazard.
- Choose the Right Ball Size: Avoid playing with balls that are small enough to lodge in the back of your dog’s throat. Select toys that are appropriately sized for your dog’s breed and size.
- Special Care for Brachycephalic Breeds: If you have a flat-faced breed, such as a Bulldog or Pug, limit their exposure to heat or stressful situations that could increase their breathing rate, as this might exacerbate breathing difficulties.
- Use Breakaway Collars: When your dog is unsupervised, opt for breakaway or safety collars to reduce the risk of choking. These collars are designed to release under pressure, preventing accidents.
- Keep Cords Out of Reach: Ensure that electrical cords, strings, and similar items are placed high and out of your dog’s reach to prevent them from chewing on or getting tangled in these objects.
By following these tips, you can help keep your furry friend safe and reduce the risk of choking incidents.