Dog Swallowed a Penny or Coin? Signs, Dangers & First Steps

Accidents happen, and when it comes to our curious canine companions, their inquisitive nature can sometimes lead them to ingest items that pose serious health risks. Among the most concerning of these are coins and small metallic objects, If your dog swallowed a coin, it can cause a range of complications, from gastrointestinal blockages to potential poisoning from the materials themselves.

Why Do Dogs Eat Coins or Metal Objects?

Dogs may eat metal items for various reasons:

Curiosity and Play

Puppies and even adult dogs often chew on items they find interesting. Shiny coins, dangling keys, or small metal toys may appear like playthings to your pet.

Teething or Boredom

During the teething stage, puppies will chew on anything they can. Similarly, dogs left alone or under-stimulated may start chewing unusual objects out of boredom.

Pica

Some dogs develop a condition called pica, where they compulsively eat non-food items. This can be due to behavioral issues, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying medical problems.

The Hidden Dangers of Metallic Objects

Metal objects may seem harmless at first glance, but once inside your dog’s body, they can create serious health problems. Some of the most concerning include:

Zinc Toxicity

Certain coins, especially pennies minted in the U.S. after 1982, contain high amounts of zinc. When ingested, the zinc is absorbed through the stomach lining and enters the bloodstream, damaging red blood cells and leading to a life-threatening condition called hemolytic anemia.

Symptoms of zinc toxicity may include: Pale or yellowish gums, Weakness or lethargy, Rapid heart rate and breathing, Vomiting, Loss of appetite, Jaundice.

In severe cases, zinc toxicity can result in organ failure or death.

Gastrointestinal Blockages

Coins, screws, or small metallic objects can lodge in the stomach or intestines. Blockages prevent food from moving normally and can cause vomiting, abdominal swelling, pain, constipation, or dehydration.

Left untreated, this may lead to tissue death or rupture of the intestines.

Internal Injuries

Sharp or jagged metal items, like screws, nails, or safety pins, can perforate the digestive tract. This leads to internal bleeding and infection, both of which require emergency surgery.

Corrosive or Toxic Metals

Some metallic items contain other toxic substances (like lead or cadmium) or are coated in chemicals that can corrode the gut lining and affect internal organs.

What to Do Immediately After Dog Swallowed A Coin

If you’ve seen your dog swallow a coin or another metal object, or even suspect it, quick action is crucial.

Step 1: Stay Calm but Act Quickly

Panic won’t help, but waiting can make things worse. Time is especially critical if the item was a zinc-containing coin or something sharp.

Step 2: Do Not Induce Vomiting

Never try to make your dog throw up unless your veterinarian tells you to. Some objects, especially sharp ones, can do more damage coming back up than going down.

Step 3: Contact Your Veterinarian or Emergency Vet

Describe what happened, what you think your dog ate, the size and shape of the object, and your dog’s size and breed. If possible, bring a similar object with you for reference. Your vet may ask you to come in immediately for evaluation.

How Vets Determine the Severity of the Situation

Physical Examination

Your vet will start by asking when the object was swallowed, what it was, and whether your dog has shown any symptoms. They’ll also check your dog’s heart rate, breathing, gum color, and abdominal tenderness.

X-rays and Imaging Techniques

X-rays are usually the first step in locating metallic objects. Coins, screws, nails, and batteries typically show up clearly. Your vet may also use ultrasound or contrast imaging to assess movement through the digestive tract or check for blockages.

Bloodwork

If zinc toxicity is suspected, your vet will run blood tests to check for anemia, liver function, and kidney damage. Elevated liver enzymes or reduced red blood cell counts are red flags for metal poisoning.

Treatment Options After Dog Swallowed A Coin

If your dog swallowed a coin, treatment depends on a number of things including the severity of the situation.

Endoscopic Removal

If the object is still in the stomach and not sharp, your vet may remove it using an endoscope—a flexible tube with a camera and small tools. This avoids the need for surgery.

Induced Vomiting (In Clinic Only)

In select cases, and only under vet supervision, vomiting may be induced early on to retrieve smooth, non-sharp objects.

Surgery

If the object is sharp, stuck, or causing internal damage, emergency surgery may be necessary. This could involve opening the stomach (gastrotomy) or intestines (enterotomy).

Supportive Care

If toxicity is involved, your dog may receive IV fluids, anti-nausea medications, pain relief, antibiotics, and, in cases of severe anemia, a blood transfusion.

Home Monitoring After Dog Swallowed A Coin

If your dog has already been treated or your vet advises monitoring at home, here’s how to safely manage recovery:

Check the Stool for Passing Object

If the object was small and non-toxic, your vet may recommend watching your dog’s stool for a few days. Some dogs may pass small objects naturally. Use gloves and carefully inspect each bowel movement.

Feed a Gentle Diet

Offer bland foods like boiled chicken and rice or prescription GI diets. This helps the digestive tract recover and eases the passage of small objects.

Prevent Dehydration

Make sure your dog is drinking water. Vomiting and diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration.

Observe Behavior

Lethargy, bloating, loss of appetite, or behavioral changes may indicate ongoing issues and should prompt a vet visit.

You can always consult a verified vet from the comfort of your app and get your doubts solved about your pet’s health. Book a consultation now.

Preventative Measures

Dog-Proofing Your Home

To prevent future mishaps, it’s essential to dog-proof your home. This involves putting away coins, small toys, and anything metallic that may catch your pup’s eye. Consider using cabinets and drawers to keep things out of reach.

Training Techniques to Discourage Ingestion

Training your dog not to ingest strange objects is vital for their safety. Positive reinforcement works wonders. Consider teaching commands like “leave it” or “drop it.” With a little patience, your dog will learn that fun doesn’t require swallowing shiny items.

Supervise Play

Avoid giving your dog toys with metal parts or detachable accessories. Regularly inspect toys for damage or loose components.

Conclusion

If your dog eats a coin or any metallic object, don’t take a “wait and see” approach unless advised by your vet. The risks are too serious. Zinc poisoning, intestinal blockages, and internal injuries can escalate rapidly. Quick diagnosis and intervention save lives.

Prevention, training, and safe environments are your best defense. But if an accident happens, staying calm and acting fast can make all the difference in protecting your dog’s health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can a dog pass a coin naturally?

It’s possible for small, smooth coins to pass naturally, but this should only be attempted under veterinary supervision. Some coins, especially pennies, contain zinc, which is toxic.

How long does it take for a dog to pass a swallowed object?

Usually within 24–72 hours, but timing depends on the object’s size, shape, and location. Your vet may recommend X-rays to track its movement.

What coins are most dangerous to dogs?

U.S. pennies minted after 1982 are particularly dangerous due to high zinc content. Other metal coins may still cause blockages or injuries.

Should I give my dog food to help push the object through?

Only if your vet instructs you to. In some cases, feeding may worsen a blockage or delay necessary treatment.

Is one coin enough to cause zinc poisoning?

Yes, even a single penny can cause toxicity in small or medium-sized dogs.