Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn't, which can lead to dangerous blockages in their digestive system. Recognizing the symptoms of bowel obstruction in dogs quickly can mean the difference between a simple treatment and a life-threatening emergency.
When your dog's intestines become blocked, every minute counts for successful treatment. Understanding what to watch for and when to seek help gives your pet the best chance for a full recovery.
Top Questions About Bowel Obstruction in Dogs
When should I rush my dog to an emergency clinic?
The symptoms of bowel obstruction in dogs that require quick veterinary attention include repeated vomiting (especially if your dog can't keep water down), severe stomach pain, or a visibly swollen stomach. Dogs showing extreme low energy, pale gums, or who are unable to stand need urgent care. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, call a veterinary clinic right away.
Can my dog still poop with a blockage?
Dogs with partial bowel obstructions may still pass small amounts of stool or diarrhea. This doesn't mean the situation isn't serious. With complete blockages, dogs typically stop defecating entirely after their intestines empty. Some dogs may strain without producing stool, which can be mistaken for constipation when it's actually a blockage.
How can I tell if it's an emergency or something less serious?
Emergency symptoms of bowel obstruction include persistent vomiting, inability to keep water down, severe pain (whining, crying, refusing to lie down), or a swollen, hard stomach. Less urgent symptoms might include mild low energy or a single episode of vomiting. When in doubt, it's always safer to call a veterinary clinic for guidance.
Why Bowel Obstructions Happen in Dogs
Bowel obstructions in dogs most commonly happen when they swallow objects that can't pass through their digestive tract. Common culprits include toys, bones, clothing items, and even large amounts of certain foods like corn cobs. Some dogs develop blockages from medical conditions such as intestinal tumors, severe constipation, or when the intestine telescopes into itself.
Spotting Mild Cases
Mild symptoms of bowel obstruction may include decreased appetite, mild low energy, or occasional vomiting. Some dogs might seem uncomfortable but still eat and drink normally. Even with mild symptoms, watch for changes as conditions can worsen rapidly. What appears to be a mild upset stomach could be the early stage of a serious blockage.
Recognizing Serious Cases
Serious symptoms of bowel obstruction include repeated vomiting that doesn't stop, visible pain when the stomach is touched, or a hunched position to relieve discomfort. Dogs may also show drooling, refusal to eat or drink, and restlessness or pacing. A swollen, tight stomach often indicates a severe blockage or potential complications. These symptoms require quick veterinary attention.
What To Do
Step 1: Call a veterinary professional
Call a veterinary clinic as soon as you notice concerning symptoms of bowel obstruction in your dog. Describe all symptoms in detail, including when they started and any possible items your dog might have swallowed. Ask about current wait times and confirm they can see your pet right away if the situation is urgent.
Step 2: Note key symptoms and possible ingested objects
Write down when symptoms started and how they've progressed to help the veterinary team make an accurate diagnosis. If you saw your dog chew or swallow something suspicious, note what it was and when it happened. This information helps veterinarians determine the location and severity of the potential blockage.
Step 3: Prepare for safe transport
Keep your dog as calm as possible during transport to the veterinary clinic. Use a carrier for small dogs or a secure leash for larger dogs. Minimize movement that could cause additional pain or stress. If your dog is vomiting, bring a towel or blanket to keep them comfortable during the journey.
Potential Life-Threatening Conditions
Untreated bowel obstructions can quickly lead to dangerous complications in dogs. The blocked intestine may lose blood supply, causing tissue damage and potential rupture. This can release bacteria into the stomach area, leading to a severe infection. Prolonged vomiting can cause dehydration that affects heart function. These complications can develop within hours, which is why quick veterinary care is essential.
Helping Your Pet Before the Vet Visit
Offering small amounts of water
If your dog is vomiting but still alert, you may offer very small sips of water to prevent dehydration. Stop if this triggers more vomiting. Do not offer food if you suspect a bowel obstruction. Call your veterinary clinic immediately for guidance on feeding and watering instructions specific to your dog's situation.
Watching for worsening signs
Watch for signs that your dog's condition is getting worse. Increased pain, more frequent vomiting, collapse, or difficulty breathing indicate the situation is becoming critical. If you notice any of these changes, call the veterinary clinic again to let them know the situation has worsened.
Preventing Future Bowel Obstructions
Prevent bowel obstructions by keeping small objects out of your dog's reach. Choose appropriate-sized toys that can't be swallowed whole and supervise play with items that could break into smaller pieces. Avoid giving bones that can splinter or toys with parts that can be chewed off and swallowed. Keep laundry, children's toys, and other household items secured away from curious dogs.
We're Here to Help
We understand how frightening it can be when your dog shows symptoms of bowel obstruction. Our teams can help determine whether your pet's situation requires emergency care. If you notice mild symptoms like decreased appetite or a single vomiting episode, you may be able to wait for an appointment with your regular veterinarian. For severe symptoms like repeated vomiting, extreme pain, or a swollen stomach, call an emergency veterinary hospital immediately. If you're not sure, call us — we can talk you through the situation.
Key Takeaways
- The symptoms of bowel obstruction in dogs range from mild discomfort to life-threatening emergencies, with repeated vomiting and severe pain requiring quick veterinary attention.
- Even partial blockages need proper medical care, as they can worsen quickly without treatment.
- Always err on the side of caution—if you're worried about your dog's symptoms, call a veterinary professional right away for guidance.
The information contained in the article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to take the place of the advice of a veterinarian.
