What to Do If Your Dog Is Choking (Step-by-Step Emergency Guide)
- Tina Manweiler
- May 1
- 2 min read
A Scary Moment Every Pet Owner Fears
It happens fast, one second your dog is chewing on something, and the next, they’re panicking, gagging, or unable to breathe.
Knowing what to do in those first moments can save your pet’s life.
The good news is, there are clear steps you can take to help your dog if they are choking and being prepared ahead of time makes all the difference.
Signs Your Dog May Be Choking
Before jumping into action, it’s important to recognize the signs:
gagging or retching
pawing at the mouth
difficulty breathing
excessive drooling
panic or distress
blue or pale gums (serious emergency)
If you notice these signs, act quickly but stay as calm as possible.
Step-by-Step: What to Do If Your Dog Is Choking
Based on your emergency guide , here’s what to do:
1. Check the Mouth
Open your dog’s mouth carefully and pull the tongue forward.
Look for any visible object and gently try to remove it.
⚠️ Be cautious, avoid pushing the object deeper and protect yourself from being bitten.
2. Perform Abdominal Thrusts
If the object is not easily removed:
Stand behind your dog
Wrap your arms around their abdomen, just under the ribcage
Make a fist and place your other hand over it
Deliver firm, upward and inward thrusts
3. Elevate the Hind End
If the object is still stuck:
Lift your dog’s back legs so their head tilts downward
For larger dogs, hold their hind legs like a wheelbarrow
This uses gravity to help dislodge the object.
4. Give Back Blows
Deliver 5 firm blows between the shoulder blades using the palm of your hand.
This can help shift the obstruction.
5. Repeat Until Clear
Continue these steps until the object is removed.
If your dog becomes unresponsive:
👉 check breathing
👉 begin CPR if needed
👉 seek emergency veterinary care immediately
When to Go to the Vet Immediately
Even if the object is removed, you should still contact a vet if:
your dog continues coughing or gagging
breathing seems abnormal
the object may have caused internal damage
Why Preparation Matters
Having this knowledge ahead of time gives you the ability to act quickly and confidently when it matters most.
Final Thoughts + What to Do Next
Choking is one of those emergencies where seconds matter.
👉 Save this guide
👉 Keep it accessible
👉 Share it with other pet owners
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