When to Call a Vet If a Dog Eats Something

A dog's nature is to chew on things. This may be an old shoe, a child's book bag, a school lunch or even a bag of candy left over from Halloween. Digesting a small amount may not be harmful, depending on what the dog ate. It is a good idea to call the veterinarian just to make sure the dog is not in any danger.

  1. Chocolate

    • Call the vet immediately if a dog eats any amount of dark or baking chocolate. Theobromine is similar to caffeine and is found in chocolate, particularly the baking kind. Dogs have trouble digesting the chemical, which can cause blockages in the blood stream and may result in damage to the heart and the nervous system. White and milk chocolate are not as dangerous; however, the vet should be informed if the dog ingested any type of chocolate.

    Bones

    • Refrain from giving a dog table scraps, even bones of a steak or a pork chop. Although dogs enjoy chewing and licking the meat off of these, bones can potentially cause internal damage. Bones break into splinters, and the pointed objects can cut into the dog's intestinal tract and prevent food from entering. A blockage may cause a dog to vomit when drinking water, become depressed, lethargic and have uncontrollable diarrhea.

    Pica

    • Inform the Vet if a dog is eating grass, or any non-food item such as plastic, wood, paint and feces. Dogs crave these non-food items when there may be an immune deficiency or an underlying disease. A radiology exam and blood tests may be performed to rule out any complications. Watch for intestinal discomfort or bloating, vomiting, diarrhea and bad breath.